Sandy Swimming Hole
Park
4.5 (611)
550 N Shepherd Rd, Washougal, WA 98671
Picnic tablesPublic restroom
RiverWA
Washougal River Swimming Holes
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan a Washougal River visit with Sandy Swimming Hole Park details, seasonal facilities and separate Three Mile access guidance.
Swimming restriction
The city identifies Sandy as an at-your-own-risk swimming area without lifeguards. Three Mile is a separate WDFW access site; its swimming conditions and historical approach are not verified here.
Official sources checked:
Water type
River
Access
Informal
Fee
Check the selected site's current parking and access requirements.
Best season
Check current alerts and river conditions before visiting. Sandy park hours are 8 a.m. to dusk
Nearby towns
Washougal, Vancouver
Water body
Washougal River
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Washougal, Vancouver
Access location not verified
VANCOUVER, WA
Approximate location based on the nearest town. Confirm the exact spot and access before you go.
A closer look
Photos of Washougal River Swimming Holes
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Washougal River: Sandy Swimming Hole and Three Mile
This regional listing covers two named access areas from the historical record, not a verified seven-stop itinerary. Choose your destination before navigating: facilities and access rules are not interchangeable along the river.
Sandy Swimming Hole Park
The City of Washougal identifies Sandy Swimming Hole Park at 550 N Shepherd Road. Posted hours are 8 a.m. to dusk. The park has a swimming area, off-street parking and picnic facilities. Restrooms are seasonal; do not assume they are available year-round. The city describes swimming as at your own risk, with no lifeguards. Dogs must remain leashed.
Three Mile access
WDFW lists Three Mile as a separate water-access site. Consult that official listing for current directions, parking-pass requirements and any restrictions. The old approximate coordinates and mile-marker instructions have not been confirmed as a reliable parking route. Water access does not by itself establish a designated or supervised swimming area.
Plan around changing river conditions
Do not rely on summer weather or clear-looking water as evidence of safe currents, depth or water quality. Avoid jumping from rocks or ledges into unknown water. Use signed public access, respect nearby property and keep emergency routes clear. This page does not confirm that either site is free of current advisories.
For an overnight trip, Battle Ground Lake State Park is a separate camping destination with its own reservations, fees and alerts. Its campground facilities do not apply to these river access sites.
Getting There
For Sandy Swimming Hole Park, use the city-listed address: 550 N Shepherd Road, Washougal. For Three Mile, use WDFW's current access-site page and posted signs. The historical approximate coordinates and mile-marker approach are not verified parking directions.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Sandy is a city-managed swimming area with no lifeguard. Confirm Three Mile directions and requirements with WDFW. No single map pin represents both destinations.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
The city identifies Sandy as an at-your-own-risk swimming area without lifeguards. Three Mile is a separate WDFW access site; its swimming conditions and historical approach are not verified here. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
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Picnic tables
Frequently Asked Questions About Washougal River Swimming Holes
Is Washougal River Swimming Holes free to visit?
Reported fee information: Check the selected site's current parking and access requirements. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Washougal River Swimming Holes?
The city identifies Sandy as an at-your-own-risk swimming area without lifeguards. Three Mile is a separate WDFW access site; its swimming conditions and historical approach are not verified here.
What type of swimming spot is Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Washougal River Swimming Holes is a river on Washougal River located in Washington, near Washougal. Plan a Washougal River visit with Sandy Swimming Hole Park details, seasonal facilities and separate Three Mile access guidance.
When is the best time to visit Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Seasonal planning notes: Check current alerts and river conditions before visiting. Sandy park hours are 8 a.m. to dusk; restroom availability is seasonal. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Reported facilities at Washougal River Swimming Holes include: The city lists parking and picnic facilities at Sandy, with seasonal restroom availability. Do not transfer these amenities to Three Mile. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Washougal River Swimming Holes?
Battle Ground Lake State Park is a separate camping destination. Do not assume camping is permitted at either river access site.
Highlights
Two distinct Washougal River access areas
City-managed Sandy Swimming Hole Park
Seasonal facilities and site-specific access rules
Unique Features
River recreation near Washougal
Separate city and WDFW access areas
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Swimming is at your own risk
- Do not jump into unknown water
- Check current advisories and posted rules; warm weather does not establish safe river conditions
- Supervise children closely
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Use lawful public viewpoints and label photos by the access area they actually show.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and staying on designated trails to minimize environmental impact.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Check current alerts and river conditions before visiting. Sandy park hours are 8 a.m. to dusk; restroom availability is seasonal.
Difficulty Level
Access conditions vary by destination; no verified difficulty rating for the historical Three Mile approach.
Fee
Check the selected site's current parking and access requirements.
Facilities
The city lists parking and picnic facilities at Sandy, with seasonal restroom availability. Do not transfer these amenities to Three Mile.
Activities
River recreation, picnicking
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Battle Ground Lake State Park is a separate camping destination. Do not assume camping is permitted at either river access site.
Nearby Attractions
- Battle Ground Lake State Park - State Park
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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