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Can you swim here today?

Bear Creek

California · River

Comfortable for a swim today

Good to swim

As of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Bear Creek is 71°F (22°C), measured by USGS gauge 11461500, 8.4 miles away.

Comfortable for a swim today: water temperature is 71°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range.

  • Water temperature is 71°F, within the comfortable 70–86°F range. — USGS gauge 11461500, as of Aug 22, 3:15 PM gauge-local time
  • No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
  • Flow is below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 110 ft³/s over 84 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 3:15 PM gauge-local time
Water temp
71°F
22°C
Streamflow
37 ft³/s
discharge
Gage height
5.37 ft
water level

Flow is low for this date — below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 110 ft³/s over 84 years).

Official advisories

Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge EF RUSSIAN R NR CALPELLA CA (8.4 mi away), as of Aug 22, 3:15 PM gauge-local time.

Live map near here →

Before you get in

  • Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
  • Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
  • Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
  • Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
  • Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
See full details, photos & weather →

Read next

SafetyHow to Read Water: Currents, Tides, and HazardsActivitiesRiver Rafting for Beginners: Classes, Gear, and What to ExpectGuidesHow to Find Safe Swimming Holes: A Complete Guide

Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.