Chasing Currents
Ready to cool off and dive in? Make Waves in Local Waters is your ultimate guide to the best places to splash, swim, and float in Sherwood Park, Edmonton, and beyond.
From sunny lake days and sandy beaches to riverside floats and outdoor pools, we’re serving up all the local spots where you can make a splash without driving hours out of town. Whether you’re chasing a quiet dip, an epic cannonball, or a chill paddle with friends, this is where you’ll find updated info, photos, and the vibe check you need before jumping in.
Some spots are hidden gems. Some are summer staples. All of them are made for making memories.
So grab your towel, pack the snacks, and get ready to make waves - the local way.
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Outdoor Pools
Make a splash and soak up the sun at the best outdoor pools in and around the Edmonton area. Whether you’re diving in for fun or just lounging poolside, we’ve rounded up the coolest spots to beat the heat.
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Water Worth Roaming For
From peaceful lake days to laid-back river floats, we’ve rounded up some of the best spots to cool off and soak in the outdoors. While a few are local gems right in the city, many of the truly unforgettable ones take a drive to reach-but trust us, they’re more than worth the trip.
Outdoor Pools
Looking to cool off under the sun? We’ve rounded up some of the best outdoor pools right here in Edmonton - plus a few favorites just a short drive away. Whether you’re diving in for some weekend fun or planning a sunny day trip, these splash spots are worth the swim.
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Borden Natural Swimming Pool
Borden Natural Swimming Pool is Canada’s first public man-made natural swimming pool. Surrounded by soft sand, shaded lounge areas, and umbrellas, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and cool off on a summer day.
Because the pool is completely chemical-free, it operates a little differently than traditional pools. Be sure to check out the guidelines before your visit!
Public Swim: 10:30am-6:30pm Daily
7615 Borden Park Road NW, Edmonton, Alberta
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Fred Broadstock Outdoor Pool
This family-friendly, fully accessible outdoor pool in west Edmonton features a 25-metre, 6-lane pool heated to 29°C, with 1m and 3m diving boards. Visitors can relax on the sun deck or enjoy a game at the dryland basketball hoop. Fred Broadstock also offers a spray park and a teach pool. On-site concession and regular change rooms make for an easy, all-day summer outing.
Public Swim: 11:00am-7:00pm Daily
15720 105 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta
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Mill Creek Outdoor Pool
Mill Creek Outdoor Pool offers 40 metres of aquatic fun in an L-shaped design, complete with a gradual zero-depth entry for improved accessibility. With inclusive and accessible change rooms, a new water slide, a sun deck with picnic seating, it’s perfect for all ages. Nestled in parkland with nearby trails, this pool makes it easy to spend the whole day outdoors.
Public Swim: Noon-8:00pm Daily
9555 84 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta
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Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool
Enjoy warm waters at 29°C in this 25-metre, 6-lane outdoor pool featuring a zero-depth entry for easy access. Take a plunge from the 1m and 3m diving boards, then kick back and soak up the sun on the spacious deck. This facility includes universal change rooms with private cubicles, gender-specific washrooms, poolside showers, lockers (option to BYO lock), and a concession on site-everything you need for a fun and easy swim day.
Public Swim: 11:00am-7:00pm Daily
9170 Walterdale Hill, Edmonton, Alberta
Water Worth Roaming For
Craving a cool escape? Most of these lakes, rivers, and swim spots aren’t right in Edmonton - but trust us, the drive is always worth it. Whether you’re floating, paddling, or just soaking it all in, these are the water adventures you won’t want to miss.
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Fort Edmonton Footbridge Sandbar
Tucked just upstream of the Fort Edmonton Footbridge lies a hidden gem-a long sandbar stretching into the North Saskatchewan River. On the right days, it’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim or lazy float from one end to the other. While there are no amenities or lifeguards on site, the natural beauty makes it worth the visit. Water quality is tested weekly from June to August by the North Saskatchewan Riverkeeper.
Access the footbridge and sandbar via Fort Edmonton Park or Westridge Park and Wolf Willow Ravine.
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Accidental Beach
Accidental Beach-also known as Cloverdale Beach-is a unique riverside spot that appeared during the construction of the Tawatinâ LRT bridge, right in the heart of downtown Edmonton. With stunning city views and a sandy stretch several blocks long, it’s become a popular summer hangout. Parking is limited to the nearby residential area along 98A Avenue, and access requires navigating a steep, unmarked footpath. Be aware that river currents and fluctuating water levels can change beach conditions regularly.
98 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta
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Terwillegar Park
Terwillegar Park is a well-loved off-leash dog park in Southwest Edmonton, nestled in the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Just a short 350m walk from the parking lot brings you to a river access point, making it a popular spot for water recreation. It’s a go-to launch site for open water swimmers, kayakers, and canoeists. Perfect for cooling off along the riverbank, where you’ll find sandy patches and a gravel bar that often appears later in the summer. Note: This spot often has a large amount of dogs-as it is connected to the dog park.
10 Rabbit Hill Road NW, Edmonton, Alberta
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Chelsey Robinson Park
Constable Chelsey Robinson Park is a hidden gem just an hour outside of Edmonton-perfect for a day trip. With direct river access and crystal-clear, shallow water, it’s a great spot for wading, floating, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The park offers clean picnic areas, free firewood for designated fire pits, and maintained no-flush toilets. While the riverbed can be a little rocky, the scenery and serenity make it worth the visit. There are no nearby food options, so be sure to pack a snack. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on-leash at all times. The parking lot can fill up quickly, if you are planning a day trip it’s best to get there early.