A midsummer heatwave is nothing new to Southern Oregon locals. Whether you’re in Medford for the weekend or you’re here to stay, check out these 6 swimming spots for a perfect day trip to beat the heat.
15 minutes from Medford
This is the perfect spot when you’re not in the mood for a long drive but need to be in the water ASAP. This spot offers access to water just 15 minutes from downtown Medford. You can picnic, fish, raft, and splash in the Rogue River.
Directions from Medford: Head north on I-5 N. Take exit 30 toward Crater Lake Highway/OR-62 and turn left onto Crater Lake Highway/OR-62 W. Continue for approximately 8 miles, then turn right onto Table Rock Road. Drive for about 2 miles and turn left onto Modoc Road. After approximately 2 miles, turn left again onto Table Rock Road. Continue for about 1 mile and turn right onto State Highway 234 W (Antelope Road). Follow State Highway 234 W for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Table Rock Road and continue for about 2 miles. Turn right onto TouVelle Park Drive and follow the road to TouVelle State Recreation Area.
25 minutes from Medford
Emigrant Lake is a local favorite to Ashland residents and not far off from the city of Medford. There are boat docks at certain areas of the lake and opportunities to fish, paddle board, or swim at this man-made reservoir.
Directions from Medford: Take I-5 S toward Ashland. Merge onto OR-66 E via exit 14 toward Klamath Falls/Ashland. Continue on OR-66 E for about 7 miles. Turn left onto Emigrant Lake Road and follow signs to the lake.
45 minutes from Medford
Located east of Medford, you'll find a Southern Oregon paradise. This lake is fed by the Applegate River and makes the perfect day trip destination whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town. Applegate Lake also offers unique hiking, biking, and equestrian trails for endless fun.
Directions from Medford: Take OR-99 S/Pacific Highway toward Grants Pass. After about 7 miles, turn right onto OR-238 W toward Jacksonville. Continue on OR-238 W for approximately 15 miles, then turn right onto Upper Applegate Road. Follow signs to Applegate Lake.
< 1 hour from Medford
Lake of the Woods combines resort fun with rustic roots for a diverse day trip from Medford. Their lively event calendar includes live music, vintage movie nights, and BBQs making it truly the place to be during summer in Southern Oregon.
Directions from Medford: Head east on OR-62 E/Crater Lake Highway toward Shady Cove. Continue on OR-62 E for approximately 26 miles. Turn left onto Butte Falls Highway and follow it for about 9 miles. Turn right onto Fish Lake Road and continue for approximately 9 miles. Turn left onto Dead Indian Memorial Road and drive for about 5 miles. Turn right onto Highway 140 E and continue for approximately 23 miles. Turn left onto Lake of the Woods Access Road and follow signs to Lake of the Woods.
55 minutes from Medford
Lost Creek Lake offers a park specifically designed for the convenience of visitors with disabilities, McGregor State Park, along with River’s Edge Park and Joseph Stewart County Park. This lake is equipped with all the amenities for a perfect family day trip. You’ll find bathrooms, picnic tables, boat docks and more.
Directions from Medford: Head northeast on OR-62 E/Crater Lake Highway toward Shady Cove. Continue on OR-62 E for approximately 25 miles. Look for signs directing you to Lost Creek Lake.
~90 minutes from Medford
The Illinois River is a special pocket in Southern Oregon. Its little pods of still water along the river make it perfect for swimming holes safe enough for all ages. For thrill seekers, there are spots on the river deep enough for small cliff jumping for a deeper plunge on the hot summer days. There is also a 9-hole frisbee golf course in the Illinois River Forks State Park.
Directions from Medford: Head southwest on OR-99 S/Pacific Highway toward Grants Pass. After approximately 19 miles, turn right onto Lower Wolf Creek Road. Continue on Lower Wolf Creek Road for about 20 miles. Turn left onto River Road and follow signs to Illinois River.
Please remember to hydrate, wear sunscreen, and bring forms of shade during your Southern Oregon summer trip. We encourage you to follow #LeaveNoTrace policies and to always leave our waters better than you found them. Happy swimming!
