174.8K Russian River Area Swimming Holes by freearenas
first prev 1 next lastRiver beaches and swimming spots along the lower Russian River in Sonoma County, California, as it winds through the redwoods toward the Pacific.
Sunset Beach River Park
Forestville, California
3.1 miles NW of Forestville, CaliforniaSunset Beach is a great swimming hole in the Russian River. This swimming hole is one of California's summer destination spots.The river offers so many fun activities such as paddle boarding, fishing, picnicking, and swimming! From the parking lot, it is a short stroll to the picnic area and the to the rocky beach. This beach can be very quiet and serene; it is an excellent spot for kids and teenagers to unplug and get in tune with nature. Sunset beach can get crowded on the weekends, but during the weekdays it is uncongested. As you walk from the picnic area, you will be exposed to a brilliant pebble beach area that welcomes you into the shallow water. Although some of the areas in the water are shallow, there are some deep areas as well. Many guests to the park set up day tents that they can use to lounge around the swimming hole all day long. While swimming you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Redwood Forest from sunrise to sunset.
There are some restrictions at this beach that should be made known. The park restricts fires, barbecues, alcohol, and biking. While these things my be prohibited, endless summer fun isn't!
Willow Creek Environmental Campground
Duncans Mills, California
2.1 miles W of Duncans Mills, CaliforniaWillow Creek campground is located along the sandy banks of the Russian River. It offers a beautiful sandy beach like terrain along the edges of the river, and unmatched river views. The weather around Willow Creek is refuge for those who are seeking to escape California's summer heat. It is often cool and breezy along the this river bank because it is near California's coast line. Around the campground there are tiny streams that add life and beauty to everything that grows around it.
Willow Creek Campground is equipped with picnic tables, garbage, and restroom services. Although there is water available, it is not potable. The water will need to be boiled before it can be consumed. There are a few fees that should be noted before going to the campsite. It cost $12 per campsite, and it is on a first come first serve basis. Willow Creek Campground has a shallow and sandy spot to launch kayaks, canoes, and tubes. It is a great location for children and adults as there are shallow and deep spots within the river. The Russian River itself empties into the Pacific. Because it is connected so closely to the ocean, at certain times during the year the area can be closed off due to high tides. These tides have a sneaky way of reaching into the creek and can cause some trouble.
The campground is a wonderful option to enjoy Willow Creek Beach a little longer. There are a few fees that include a $10 vehicle fee, and a park pass. These are very little fees however for the amazing amenities the camp offers. You can find beach access, beachcombing, creek access, day use area, parking area, self-pay station, surfing, trash collection, vault toilets, and wildlife viewing.
