Natural swimming hole
Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River
River · Washington
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Inside Olympic National Park at the end of the Staircase road, the North Fork Skokomish forms deep, clear pools between old-growth giants. It's a wilder alternative to Lake Cushman's beaches, with the campground right beside the river.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50-55 in summer |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | NPS pass or entry fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | daylight hours |
| Parking | Staircase ranger station lot; fills on weekends |
| Amenities | vault toilet, campground |
| County | Mason County |
| Nearest town | Hoodsport |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; very cold river; remote; wilderness beyond the campground |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River?
Yes — Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River is listed as a natural swimming spot in Washington. Reported water temperature: 50-55 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; very cold river; remote; wilderness beyond the campground. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River require reservations?
No reservations are required at Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River?
Reported fee info: NPS pass or entry fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Staircase, North Fork Skokomish River?
The best season is typically July-September.