Outdoor Swimming: Keep Yourself Safe & Keep the Water Clean

Swimming in rivers and lakes is a privilege. Our choices directly affect water quality, wildlife, and other people downstream.

Protect Water Quality & Ecosystems

Don't use soap, shampoo, or detergents in natural water.
Apply sunscreen well before swimming so it can absorb.
Use mineral or reef-safe sunscreens when possible.
Avoid lotions, bug spray, and other chemicals before swimming.
Never dump food, drinks, or trash into rivers or lakes.
Pick up and pack out all trash.
Keep dogs from relieving themselves near the water and always pick up pet waste.
Use bathrooms when available; otherwise follow Leave No Trace practices and keep waste far from water.
Stay on established paths to prevent shoreline erosion.
Don't move rocks, build dams, or disturb plants.
Respect wildlife and keep dogs under control.

Never swim alone; use the buddy system.
Enter water feet-first unless the depth and bottom are known.
Be aware of currents, cold water, and submerged hazards like rocks and logs.
Avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Water becomes more polluted, and conditions can change fast.
Keep a close, distraction-free watch on children.
Don't swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Swim only where allowed and follow posted signs.

Share swimming areas respectfully and keep noise levels down.
Leave the area cleaner than you found it.
Remember that what enters the water here affects people and ecosystems downstream.