Elwha River (Altair)
River · Washington
ℹ️ Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Altair Campground sits on the Elwha River in Olympic National Park, with swimming in the river's clear pools. The Elwha's dam-removal restoration is an ecological success story. The riverside setting in old-growth forest is magnificent.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50s in summer |
| Depth | river pools |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | Park entrance fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | campground lot |
| Amenities | vault toilets, campground |
| County | Clallam County |
| Nearest town | Port Angeles |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; swift glacial river — swim in calm eddies |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Elwha River (Altair) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Elwha River (Altair) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Elwha River (Altair)?
Reported fee info: Park entrance fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Elwha River (Altair)?
The best season is typically July-September.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026