Can you swim here today?
Bear Creek
California · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Bear Creek is 54°F (12°C), measured by USGS gauge 11277300, 5.6 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 54°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 54°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 11277300, as of Aug 22, 5:30 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 16 ft³/s over 65 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 5:30 PM gauge-local time
- No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 16 ft³/s over 65 years).
Official advisories
Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge CHERRY C BL VALLEY DAM NR HETCH HETCHY CA (5.6 mi away), as of Aug 22, 5:30 PM gauge-local time.
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.
Read next
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.