Smith Creek beach is just off Highway 12 between Syringa and Kooskia, about 20 minutes from the Kooskia bridge. It is not on google maps. It features the largest riverside shore in the area, sporting a shoreline between 40-50 ft.
Parking is spacious for a roadside stop, easily fitting 10 average sized vehicles. On weekends and holidays in the summer, plan to get there early if you want to stake out your spot or need more space for a larger group.
Unlike some of the other river beaches, a roadside outhouse (read: roadside outhouse) is available, for those of us who forgot to go before getting in the car or just need a place to change.
One might worry about a beach right off the highway, but it typically presents no issue for visitors as there is a trail from the parking space down to the beach. This path does have some stone steps and is well worn, descends about 30 feet down, and you will need to watch your step.
There is a shallow kiddie-depth area, from the edge of the water to about 3-4 feet out, and running the entire length of the beach. The slightly steep bank of sand is fine and abundant for a river beach, perfect for sand castles and hand-built kiddie pools. There is a group of medium and large boulders on the east corner of the beach that many use to dry out towels/clothes, set bags, or sit and warm up.
The mid-river current can be fast, especially early in the season, so we recommend keeping river trips to July and August, when the water is low; this will help you to have the safest excursions.
Just remember to considerately pick up after yourself, and pack out what you pack in to keep our beautiful region enjoyable and clean. Enjoy wildlife watching, sunbathing, splashing, and more at Smith Creek Beach!
