01
Best overall pick
Scotts Flat Lake – Main Recreation Area Beach
East Of Nevada City • Pine-Framed Reservoir Beach • Closest Full-Service Spot
A broad lakeside swim area with easy parking, boat access, and classic foothill scenery just up the hill from Cedar Ridge.
The main recreation area at Scotts Flat Lake is where many locals head first when the temperatures spike. There’s a long stretch of shoreline for spreading out towels, plus nearby campgrounds, boat ramps, and a small marina to rent water toys if you don’t have your own. Get there early on summer weekends for shaded picnic tables and a parking spot close to the water.
02
Best for camping and boating
Rollins Lake – Orchard Springs Beach
West Of Cedar Ridge Near Colfax • Family-Friendly Lake Resort Beach • Best For Lake Weekends
A gentle cove-style swimming beach tucked into one of Rollins Lake’s most popular camp and day-use areas.
Orchard Springs offers that classic California reservoir vibe: a sheltered swimming area, nearby boat docks, and campsites that let you roll out of your tent and straight into the water. The shoreline here is especially appealing for families, with calmer water and an easy slope into the lake. It’s a good choice if you want to mix swimming with tubing, fishing, or an afternoon on a rented pontoon boat.
03
Best river day trip
South Yuba River State Park – Bridgeport Swim Beach
Bridgeport, West Of Grass Valley • Scenic River Bar And Swimming Hole • Best For Scenery And Photos
A broad gravel-and-sand bar below the historic covered bridge, with clear emerald water and big-sky canyon views.
At Bridgeport, the South Yuba slows into deep pools and gentle current, making this one of the more accessible river swims in the region when flows are safe. The beachy bar just downstream of the covered bridge gives plenty of room to spread out, and it’s an easy stroll from the main parking area. Pack river shoes for the cobbles, and plan extra time for shaded walks along the park’s trails after your swim.
04
Best quick escape
Bear River Campground Day-Use Beach
South Of Cedar Ridge Off Dog Bar Road • Shaded Riverbank Beach • Best For A Quick Cool-Down
A close-to-home river spot with shady trees, mellow current, and small pockets of sandy and pebbly shore.
When you don’t have time for a full lake day, the Bear River Campground area is a reliable place to sneak in a swim after work. The river here offers a mix of shallow wading sections and deeper pockets where you can fully submerge, all framed by tall pines and oaks. It feels tucked away but is still reachable on a short, winding drive from Cedar Ridge.
05
Best for exploring by boat
Englebright Lake – Main Swim Area and Coves
Yuba River Canyon Near Smartsville • Long, Cliff-Lined Reservoir Shoreline • Best For Adventurous Days On The Water
A narrow, scenic reservoir with a small swim area near the marina and miles of secluded coves reachable by boat or kayak.
Englebright Lake feels wilder than many foothill reservoirs, with steep canyon walls and long inlets that reward exploring by paddle or motorboat. Start at the main day-use and swim area near the dam for an easy dip, then head out to find quieter coves and rock ledges for sunbathing if you have a craft. It’s a bit more of a drive from Cedar Ridge, but the change of scenery and sense of space make it a worthwhile day trip.