01
Best all-around lake day
Scotts Flat Lake
East Of Nevada City In The Foothills • Lakeside Recreation Beach • Best For Active Days On The Water
A spacious mountain reservoir with sandy pockets, clear water, and plenty of room for paddling, swimming, and lounging.
Scotts Flat is the go-to lake when you want a classic beach setup without driving to the coast. The day-use areas offer easy water access, nearby parking, and a mix of shade and sun so everyone can find a comfortable spot. It’s an easy choice for groups that want to swim, launch kayaks, and linger into the evening.
02
Best for campers and groups
Rollins Lake Beaches
South Of Grass Valley Toward Colfax • Lively Lakeside Beach • Great For Groups And Campers
A series of small, social beaches wrapped around a tree-lined reservoir popular with campers and boaters.
Rollins Lake is where lake life and camping blend together, with pocket beaches tucked near campgrounds and marinas. Expect a friendly, energetic scene in summer, from kids wading at the shoreline to boats cruising by offshore. It’s a convenient pick if you’re already camping nearby or want a full day of swimming, grilling, and people-watching.
03
Most iconic river scene
Bridgeport & Kneebone Beach, South Yuba River
South Yuba River State Park West Of Grass Valley • Historic River Beach • Iconic Local Swimming Spot
A broad, smooth-rock river stretch below the covered bridge, with Kneebone Beach just upriver offering classic South Yuba swimming.
Down at Bridgeport, the South Yuba spreads out into wide, sun-warmed pools framed by polished granite and the old covered bridge. A short riverside walk brings you to Kneebone Beach, where shallower sections mix with deeper swims. Go early on hot weekends, as parking and shoreline fill quickly when the river is running clear and inviting.
04
Best adventurous river spot
Highway 49 Crossing Swimming Holes
North Of Nevada City On Highway 49 • Granite-Lined River Pools • Best For Adventurous Swimmers
A string of deep, emerald pools and smooth boulders along the South Yuba, reached by short but sometimes steep trails.
The Highway 49 Crossing offers the classic South Yuba experience: cliffy granite, cold clear water, and a choose-your-own-adventure mix of pools and pockets of beach. It’s more rugged than the lakes, and you’ll want solid footwear for the walk down and scrambling over rocks. Ideal for strong swimmers and river-regulars who don’t mind a bit of effort to find their own perch above the current.
05
Best mellow reservoir hangout
Lake Englebright Day-Use Beach
Near Penn Valley And Smartsville • Warm-Water Reservoir Beach • Relaxed Alternative To The River
A sheltered reservoir cove with gently sloping shoreline and typically warmer water than the nearby rivers.
Tucked into the canyon, Lake Englebright’s day-use area has a slower, more laid-back feel than the busier river crossings. The water here generally stays warmer, and the gradual entry makes it comfortable for waders and cautious swimmers. It’s a good pick when you want an easygoing float-and-picnic day away from the granite and crowds.