01
Best overall pick
Forestville River Access (Mom's Beach)
Forestville Riverfront • Easygoing Family Beach • Best For Families And First-Timers
A shallow, slow-moving stretch of the Russian River that feels like Forestville’s own neighborhood swim hole.
Mom’s Beach is where local families head on hot days, thanks to its gentle current, easy walk-in access, and relaxed picnic vibe. Expect a rocky shoreline rather than soft sand, so water shoes help, and plan to arrive early on summer weekends before the small parking lot fills. There are basic seasonal restrooms and shady spots up from the water, making it an easy all-day setup.
02
Best for paddling
Steelhead Beach Regional Park
East Of Forestville Off River Road • Laid-Back Launch And Picnic Spot • Top Choice For Kayaks And Canoes
A scenic riverside park with a broad gravel beach that doubles as a popular launch point for floats and small boats.
Steelhead Beach has a more open, natural feel, with plenty of room to spread out along the gravel and watch the river drift by. It’s one of the easiest places nearby to put in kayaks, canoes, or inflatable rafts for a float downstream toward Guerneville. On busy days, the parking lot can close when full, so aim for morning arrivals if you’re bringing gear.
03
Best for low-key lounging
Sunset Beach River Park
South Forestville Along River Road • Sunny Sandbar Hangout • Best For Lazy Afternoons In The Sun
A compact, sun-soaked river beach where sandbars and gentle shallows invite long floats and barefoot wading.
Tucked just off River Road, Sunset Beach feels a bit more hidden than some of the larger access points, with a mellow, mostly local crowd. The beach itself shifts with the river level, often revealing sandbars that are perfect for setting up a chair in ankle-deep water. Pack everything you need—amenities are limited, and shade is minimal in the middle of the day.
04
Classic day-trip choice
Johnson's Beach
Downtown Guerneville • Classic Small-Town Swim Beach • Livelier Scene With Rentals And Events
A broad, dammed-up river swimming area with a nostalgic summer-camp feel, right off Guerneville’s main drag.
Johnson’s Beach draws a mix of locals and visitors for its wide pebble shore, float rentals, and calm swimming zone. Being right in town, it has more of a scene than Forestville’s beaches—think umbrellas, coolers, and a steady buzz of people watching. It’s ideal if you want an easy combo of river time plus coffee, snacks, or dinner just a short walk away.