Whether you prefer a lake or a river, you have plenty of close-in options to choose from for swimming around Portland when the mercury rises. While some watering holes will require a short hike, others allow you to practically drive right in. All are family-friendly, so pack a picnic and bring plenty of cool drinks for a fun afternoon in the sun. Here are 9 amazing swimming holes near Portland.

1. Blue Lake

Blue Lake, located in Fairview, is a family-friendly swim spot, that along with the lake, features a large water splash pad, picnic areas, and a frisbee golf course. Admission is $5 per vehicle.

Enjoy this short peek at Blue Lake in Fairview, Oregon. It is one of several mighty nice places to go swimming near Portland:

2. Glenn Otto Community Park

Just 20 minutes from Portland, this spot on the Sandy River is perfect for a quick cool-off. Admission is free. Glenn Otto Park is also home to an annual Big Foot Festival in August so keep an eye out for hairy beasts while you are swimming.

3. Vancouver Lake Park

Just across the Columbia in Vancouver, Washington lies Vancouver Lake, a picturesque park with a sandy beach and shady picnic areas. The area is also a great location for kayaking and canoeing. Admission is free.

4. Alder Flat

Located on the Clackamas River, this swimming spot requires a 3/4-mile hike, but it is well worth it. A stone and sand beach and primitive campground are about all that's here, making it a great low-key swim spot. There is no fee.

5. Henry Hagg Lake

Located near Forest Grove, Henry Hagg Lake is a great getaway for a day of swimming, fishing, and boating. The day-use fee is $7 per vehicle.

6. Lost Lake

Situated at the end of over 20 miles of winding roads, Lost Lake is secluded at 3,100 feet up Mt Hood. Besides the stunning view of the mountain, you can camp and rent paddleboats or canoes from the lodge here. The day-use fee is $5 per vehicle.

Enjoy a tour of the beautiful Lost Lake in Oregon in this video from David Lim. If you are looking for an incredible place to discover more Portland swimming holes you really can't beat this spot:

7. Trillium Lake

Close to Government Camp, the pristine Trillium Lake is a great place for a summer adventure. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating on this picturesque lake with a great Mt. Hood view. The day-use fee is $10 per vehicle.

8. Sauvie Island

Head to Sauvie Island, and pick up some fresh fruit from a farm along the way for lunch. Located on the Columbia River, there are both traditional beaches and clothing-optional ones here. The day-use fee is $10 per vehicle.

9. Wildwood Recreation Area

There are several places along the Salmon River to dip your toes in, and a couple to have a full afternoon of swimming. Try the small beach near the underwater viewing area for one of the deepest, least rocky swimming areas along the park's impressive trail. The day-use fee is $5 for a vehicle of nine or fewer passengers.

Oregon's Wildwood Recreation Area is filled with beauty and fun places to explore. Enjoy this video from BLM Oregon & Washington showing a quick look at what you can expect when you come to visit:

Whether you prefer a man-made beach, a natural ocean beach, or a secluded swimming hole in the middle of a state forest, Oregon is an incredible state to find somewhere to cool off on a hot summer day. When you head to the cool blue waters in Oregon where are your go-to swimming holes near Portland?

If you want a really cool place to cool off in Oregon, head to one of these waterfall swimming holes for a beautiful and refreshing summer day.