Sandy Swimming Hole takes its name from the sandy beach and swimming area that distinguishes this developed city park location on the Washougal River from the many rocky stretches that characterize much of the river's course through the Columbia River Gorge foothills. This family-friendly swimming spot holds historical significance as the location where the local fire department provided free swim lessons to area children during the 1940s, establishing a tradition of community water safety and recreation that continues today. Located on North Shepherd Road in the Parkersville area of Washougal approximately 18-22 miles from Vancouver and roughly 30-32 miles from Portland, the site offers developed amenities unusual for Washougal River access points. The clear, transparent waters flow past at gentle speeds near shore with moderate mid-channel currents when flows rise, creating safe swimming conditions during summer months when water temperatures reach the upper 60s to approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Shallow edges ranging 1-3 feet deep transition to chest-to-overhead depths that vary seasonally with river flow. Tall trees provide natural shade along the grassy lawn areas, while the sandy beach creates ideal conditions for families with children seeking safe, supervised water play without lifeguards present.
Swimming dominates summer activities at Sandy Swimming Hole, with families wading in shallows and children playing in the clear mountain water under parental supervision. The developed beach area provides space for sunbathing on towels or blankets between swims. Picnicking utilizes tables and grassy lawn areas with shade from mature trees, making extended family outings comfortable throughout warm days. The boat launch accommodates non-motorized boats including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for exploring upstream and downstream sections of the Washougal River. Rockhounding attracts those seeking agates, jasper, carnelian, quartz crystals, and thunderegg-like nodules that can be found along this section of river where geological processes have concentrated interesting minerals. Beachcombing reveals smooth river stones, interesting rock formations, and materials deposited by seasonal flows. Fishing from shore or wading into the river attracts anglers pursuing trout, salmon during migration runs, and other Washougal River species, though regulations should be checked for current seasons and limits. Free paved parking provides convenient access with a short, flat 200-300 foot walk from the lot to the beach. Restrooms serve park visitors, and trash cans help maintain the area's cleanliness. The clear water quality allows visibility to the river bottom in many areas, adding to the safe swimming experience. Between mile markers 3 and 5 of the Washougal River corridor, a 2-mile stretch provides numerous sun-drenched rocky outcroppings, small pebbly beaches, and clear pools for those seeking additional exploration beyond the main Sandy Swimming Hole area.
Washougal's restaurant scene offers satisfying dining options minutes from Sandy Swimming Hole. The Puffin Cafe serves Caribbean-inspired cuisine in a family-owned setting operating since 2002, featuring beer-battered fish and chips with crispy golden cod, fresh garden salads with tropical dressings, Key Lime pie with graham cracker crust and whipped cream, Jamaican Jerk Burger with spicy seasonings and pineapple, Cuban Sandwich with slow-roasted pork and Swiss cheese, Jerk Chicken with authentic island spices, Shrimp Tacos with mango salsa, and Fish Tacos with cabbage slaw and lime. Washougal Times Restaurant and Lounge delivers American classics including fried oysters with cocktail sauce, parmesan-crusted wings with ranch dipping sauce, build-your-own burgers with extensive topping options, ribeye steaks grilled to preference, creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, roasted asparagus with butter, and grilled salmon sandwiches. Takumi-ko Japanese Cuisine features authentic preparations with fresh nigiri and sashimi selections including fatty salmon, yellowfin tuna, and buttery escolar, classic rolls like California Roll with imitation crab and avocado, Yellowtail Roll with scallions, Spicy Tuna Roll with sriracha mayo, and Unagi Roll with barbecued eel. Danglicious Vietnamese Kitchen serves traditional Vietnamese specialties including aromatic Chicken Noodle Soup with herbs, beef Pho with rice noodles in rich broth, Vermicelli Noodle bowls with grilled pork or chicken, and Vietnamese Sandwiches on crusty French baguettes with pickled carrots and daikon. Kascadia Brewery and Public House combines craft beers brewed on-site with gastropub fare including gourmet burgers, creative sandwiches, fresh salads, shareable appetizers, and seasonal specials in a casual brewpub atmosphere.
