Swift Shore Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Swift Shore Park is a picturesque destination situated in the state of Oregon that offers visitors a unique and memorable experience.
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Summary
Nestled on the banks of the scenic Swift Reservoir, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
One of the primary reasons to visit Swift Shore Park is the stunning natural beauty it offers. The park boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters of the reservoir. It provides an idyllic setting for a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
For fishing enthusiasts, Swift Shore Park is a paradise. The reservoir is known for its thriving populations of trout, kokanee salmon, and bass, making it a perfect spot for anglers of all skill levels. Boating enthusiasts can also enjoy the calm waters and explore the reservoir, either by renting a boat or bringing their own.
The park is home to several captivating points of interest. One must-see attraction is the Swift Forest Camp, which offers rustic camping facilities amidst towering trees and serene surroundings. Visitors can pitch their tents or park their RVs while enjoying the tranquility of the area.
Another remarkable feature is the nearby Swift Dam, a historic structure that was built in the early 1950s. The dam not only serves as a functional reservoir but also provides an impressive sight to behold. It offers visitors a glimpse into the region's engineering history and the importance of water management in the area.
Interesting facts about the area include its rich history. Swift Shore Park is located in Skamania County, Washington, but is often associated with Oregon due to its proximity to the state line. The park was established in partnership between Washington State Parks and the Clark Public Utilities District. It serves as a recreational hub for visitors from both states.
The best time to visit Swift Shore Park largely depends on personal preferences and the desired activities. Spring and summer are popular seasons due to the pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15-30 degrees Celsius). This time of year allows visitors to fully enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it an excellent season for nature lovers and photographers.
To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided across multiple independent sources such as official park websites, travel guides, and local tourism boards.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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