Vaught’s Beach

🏊Swimming at Vaught’s Beach

Swimming and wading take place in a large pool at the put-in beach, with deeper sections reported to reach 26-30 feet. Current strength varies substantially with powerhouse releases (normal operation up to about 800 cfs, higher during spring spills), so it suits confident swimmers who check flows rather than casual waders during high-release periods.

📍How to get to this swimming hole

From Jackson, take Highway 49 south about 5 miles to the bridge over the Mokelumne River, then turn onto Electra Road (Electra Powerhouse Road) and follow it roughly 3 miles to the Electra Picnic Area/put-in beach.

Parking: On-site parking is available at the Electra Picnic Area/put-in near the powerhouse.

🥾The walk in

No real hike here. The water is a short walk from where you park. Drive-up access: the sandy beach and swimming pool sit right at the Electra Picnic Area parking area, with only a short carry across the sand to the water (no trail hike required).

💬What regulars say

Boaters and locals note the lot sees frequent vehicle break-ins (especially items left visible, including beer), so pack valuables out of sight. Paddlers describe the pool here as a reliable warm-up and practice spot before the rapids downstream, consistent with it doubling as a casual swimming beach in summer.

📜Backstory

The site sits immediately below the historic Electra Powerhouse, a PG&E hydroelectric facility whose operations govern river flow through the site; it was affected by the 2022 Electra Fire, after which the day-use area was closed and later reopened.