Humboldt County Has Six Rivers and Redwoods! Eel, Van Duzen, Mattole, Mad, Klamath and Trinity Rivers with so many rivers and streams in the area its not surprising that there's an incredible number of excellent swimming holes. Swimming in the rivers is usually best from June to October when the water warms considerably.

Paddle to the Headwaters • Website

This is an annual event whose centerpiece is a 30-mile marathon down the Eel River — it begins in Dyerville (north of Weott) and ends at Fortuna's River Lodge. The PALCO Paddle to the Headwaters marathon is open to both the serious racer and the recreational canoeist. Whether you are canoeing to compete or just paddling for pleasure, Paddle to the Headwaters is the canoe-kayak event you are looking for!

Avenue of the Giants - Scenic Route 254 • Website

From Fortuna: approx. 12 miles south off U.S. 101 • As you drive along this two-lane, 31-mile scenic highway, look for turnouts and foot paths that take you from the avenue straight to secluded beaches and cool swimming holes on the Eel River.

Carlotta

From Fortuna: approx. 6 miles east off Highway 36 • Just east of Fortuna on Highway 36, in Carlotta at the 6.3 mile marker, is a popular swimming hole. Park at the turnout and walk down to the river.

Tish Tang and Gray Falls Campgrounds • Website

From Fortuna: approx. 60 miles northeast off Highway 299 • The Trinity River in northern Humboldt County is another popular swimming destination — these two campgrounds in the Six Rivers National Park are well known for swimming. Located near Willow Creek on Highway 299.

Bigfoot Rafting • Website

From Fortuna: approx. 60 miles northeast off Highway 299, Willow Creek, CA (800) 722-2223

Guided half day to three day trips on the Trinity and Klamath Rivers. Raft and inflatable kayak rentals. Shuttles. Families and first timers welcome.

Humboldt County, described as "The Land of Lagoons," is host to several estuaries and inlets…

Humboldt Lagoons State Park • Website
From Fortuna: approx. 60 miles north on U.S. 101 • Comprised of a chain of 4 lagoons in an area of over 1,000 acres the park is a favorite spot for windsurfing, kayaking and canoeing, fishing, bird watching, camping and hiking. The Park includes miles of varied coastline from broad, flat marine terraces to steep rocky cliffs and beaches. Two of the most popular hikes are from Big Lagoon along the coast or through the 40 acre Stagecoach Hill Azalea Preserve, overlooking the lagoon.

A few miles north of Big Lagoon are Stone Lagoon, Freshwater Lagoon, and Dry Lagoon. Both Big Lagoon and Stone Lagoon are breached by the ocean and their waters vary in salt content. There are plenty of campsites in the park - six, of which, are environmental, meaning accessible by foot or boat only. Be sure to visit the Humboldt Lagoons Visitors Center and Bookstore for more information about the Humboldt Lagoons State Park and surrounding area.