Benham Falls — East Side Swimming Hole
A secluded swimming hole on the east bank of the Deschutes just below Benham Falls, where calm deep pools form behind ancient basalt columns. Spring upwelling from the volcanic aquifer keeps water at a consistent 60 degrees even in August.
Everyone crowds the west side viewpoint. East side access is via a barely-there game trail used by deer and river otters. Deep, clear pools with almost no company while tourists line up across the river.
Park at the Benham Falls East Trailhead, an unmarked pull-off on Forest Road 42. Follow the social trail downstream 0.2 miles to where the river widens behind columnar basalt. Bring water shoes. Respect private property signs — access is courtesy-based.
Packing Checklist
- ☐ Water shoes with real grip
- ☐ Quick-dry towel
- ☐ Dry bag for electronics
- ☐ Sunscreen (waterproof)
- ☐ Change of clothes
- ☐ First aid kit
- ☐ Snacks and water
The Benham Falls viewpoint draws crowds to the west bank. The swimming holes are on the east.
A barely-there game trail from the Benham Falls East Trailhead leads downstream 0.2 miles to where the river widens behind ancient columnar basalt. Spring upwelling from the volcanic aquifer keeps water temperatures at a consistent 60 degrees — refreshing in August when the rest of the Deschutes runs warmer.
Access requires respect. The east bank involves courtesy agreements with adjacent landowners that locals have maintained for years. Keep it clean, keep it quiet, and this spot stays accessible.
Park at: Unmarked pull-off on Forest Road 42 (Benham Falls East Trailhead).
Sources
- Deschutes River Conservancy — river stewardship, access partnerships, and water quality data
- Deschutes National Forest — Benham Falls trail and Forest Road 42 access information