Looking for kid-friendly swimming lakes in Washington that are perfect for families? Whether you’re hoping for a lazy river float or a plunge beneath a waterfall, there are plenty of family-friendly swimming lakes in Washington that are perfect for summer fun. From lakeside beaches to hidden falls, these locations offer calm waters, scenic backdrops, and just enough adventure to wear out even the most energetic kids. Here are five tried-and-true swimming holes and lakes that are worth packing the floaties for.
Swim safety tip: No matter how calm or shallow the water looks, always supervise children closely. River currents and stream flows from waterfalls can change quickly and without warning.
What to pack: Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, water shoes, hats and sunglasses, plenty of snacks and water, goggles, floaties or life jackets, and hiking gear if you’re heading to a spot with a trail.
Skykomish River: Al Borlin Park, Monroe
Address: 615 Simons Rd, Monroe, WA 98272
One of the best kid-friendly rivers near Seattle, the Skykomish flows right through Al Borlin Park — a 90-acre gem with everything you need for a sunny family day out. Located in Monroe, this park features a rocky shoreline perfect for wading, floating, and skipping stones. You’ll find BBQ grills, picnic tables, restrooms, and shade when you need a break from the sun. The easy 1.8-mile Al Borlin Park Loop Trail nearby is great for little legs and adds a fun nature walk to your day.
Tips for your visit:
- The riverbank is gravelly, not sandy — bring water shoes!
- Great for floating: pack inner tubes for a gentle float
- Explore the bridge and old train tracks nearby
- Restrooms, picnic tables, and parking available on-site
- Trails are usually dry by July
- Dog-friendly
Calm water is great for swimming and floating with a gravelly beach nearby. (Image courtesy Wafflesnfalafel)
Snoqualmie River: McCormick Park, Duvall
Address: 26200 NE Stephens St, Duvall, WA 98019
McCormick Park is a local favorite on the Snoqualmie River, offering one of the more accessible and kid-friendly swimming holes near Seattle. With a slow current and soft sand beach, it’s a great place to lounge while kids splash, dig, and float. You’ll find picnic shelters, grills, tables, and restrooms, plus a network of trails for stretching your legs.
Bonus: The city’s free 2025 summer concert series runs Wednesdays from 7–8:30 p.m., July 9 through August 9 — a perfect way to cap off a river day.
Looking for a quieter spot? Walk just 0.25 miles up to Taylor Landing. When the river is low, you can even walk between the parks along the shoreline.
Tips for your visit
- Inner tubes are great for this gentle stretch of river
- There’s little shade — don’t forget hats and sunscreen
- Picnic areas, grills, outdoor rinse-off shower, and restrooms available
- Dog-friendly and stroller-accessible
Cherry Creek Falls, Duvall
Address: 16538 Kelly Rd NE, Duvall, WA 98019
If you’re up for a little adventure, Cherry Creek Falls is one of the most scenic and rewarding kid-friendly swimming holes in Washington. This 5-mile round-trip hike leads through a peaceful, forested trail to not one, but two waterfalls cascading into a cool, shallow pool. The trail has minimal elevation gain and fun landmarks — including two old, moss-covered car wrecks — that keep kids motivated.
Once you arrive, you’ll find a gravel beach and refreshing pool at the base of the 25-foot falls — perfect for a dip or a photo op. It’s a summer favorite, so plan to start early or go on a weekday if you prefer fewer crowds.
Tips for your visit:
- Parking is street-side only and limited — arrive early and park legally
- Bring bug spray — mosquitoes love this trail in summer
- The first half-mile crosses private land: stay on the trail and be respectful
- One portable toilet is located at the trailhead — plan accordingly
- Waterproof shoes are ideal; you may need to cross a small creek
- Hiking poles can help kids over roots or rocky areas
Pro tip: This location gets a lot of search traffic — if you’re sharing photos or reels, tag it with #CherryCreekFalls to help others discover it!
Cherry Creek Falls (Image: Dave Puhrmann)
Rocky Brook Falls, Olympic Peninsula
Address: 2405 Dosewallips Rd, Brinnon, WA 98320
For families looking for a dramatic waterfall without a long hike, Rocky Brook Falls is a perfect pick. Just a 200-yard walk from the road, this spot delivers big impact with minimal effort. The 229-foot horsetail-style waterfall tumbles into a cool pool where kids can wade or swim. It’s one of the more accessible kid-friendly swimming holes in Washington, and it’s incredibly photogenic to boot.
The falls are part of a hydroelectric facility, so access is strictly limited to the marked trail. It’s a popular spot with both locals and tourists — expect company on sunny weekends.
Tips for your visit:
- A Northwest Forest Pass is required
- Park on the street and walk in
- To reach the pool, you’ll scramble over a few rocks and tree roots — carriers recommended for toddlers
- The right side of the pool has a shallow entry; deeper areas and jump spots exist but always check depth first
- Water levels can fluctuate — supervise children closely
While not as widely searched as Cherry Creek, this spot is a favorite for day trippers. Include it on your Olympic Peninsula adventure itinerary.
An extremely short hike will lead you to these falls. (Image courtesy Waterfalls Northwest)
Lake Easton State Park Campground, Lake Easton State Park
Address: 150 Lake Easton State Park Rd, Easton, WA 98925
If the Seattle weather isn’t playing nice, head just over the mountains to Lake Easton State Park — where the skies are sunnier and the swimming is just as sweet. Located about an hour east of the city, this is one of the best swimming lakes in Washington for families hoping to escape the marine layer. If you’re building a list of must-visit swimming lakes Washington has to offer, this one should be near the top.
The swim beach is sandy with a gradual entry, and there’s a playground just a short walk away — perfect for bouncing between splashing and swinging. Parents will appreciate the grassy, shaded areas nearby for lounging. You can also bring along kayaks, paddleboards, or fishing poles for extra outdoor fun.
Tips for your visit:
- A Discover Pass is required (purchase on-site if needed)
- Restrooms, picnic areas, and shaded grassy zones are available
- The swim beach and playground are close together — easy for families
- Portions of the park may be closed for maintenance — check the website before visiting
Bonus: The lake is surrounded by mountain views and tree-lined trails — it’s a beautiful place to disconnect and unwind.
Float along Lake Easton where the water is cool and clear. (Image courtesy Jessi Johnson)
These swimming lakes Washington families love offer a safe, refreshing way to soak up the best of summer — one splash at a time.
