Natural swimming hole
Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park
River · Washington
About this swimming hole
The iconic Riverside State Park day-use area on the Spokane River, where a CCC-built suspension bridge crosses basalt rapids. Swimming happens in the calmer eddies downstream of the rapids; the main chute itself is for looking, not dipping.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 65-70 in summer |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | Discover Pass |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 8am-dusk |
| Parking | Bowl and Pitcher lot; fills on summer weekends |
| Amenities | restrooms, picnic tables, campground |
| County | Spokane County |
| Nearest town | Spokane |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; stay out of the rapids; basalt is slippery |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park?
Yes — Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Washington. Reported water temperature: 65-70 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; stay out of the rapids; basalt is slippery. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park?
Reported fee info: Discover Pass. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Bowl and Pitcher, Riverside State Park?
The best season is typically July-September.