Russian River Water Temperature Today
Russian River, a river swimming spot in California, United States. The water reaches comfortable swimming temperatures in high summer, and is cold but ice-free in winter.
In August Russian River averages about 24°C, peaking near 24°C in July, August, September and dropping to roughly 9°C at its coldest.
River and swimming-hole temperatures are modelled from long-term monthly averages and refined with live air temperature, wind and UV. Moving water reacts faster to the weather than a lake or the sea.
Russian River water temperature by month
| Month | Average water temperature | Swimming |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10.0°C | cool |
| February | 9.0°C | cold |
| March | 10.0°C | cool |
| April | 12.8°C | cool |
| May | 16.5°C | mild |
| June | 20.3°C | warm |
| July | 23.0°C | warm |
| August | 24.0°C | hot |
| September | 23.0°C | warm |
| October | 20.3°C | warm |
| November | 16.5°C | mild |
| December | 12.8°C | cool |
Russian River swim conditions FAQ
What is the water temperature in Russian River right now?
In August the water in Russian River averages about 24°C. We refine that long-term average with today's air temperature, because this river responds quickly to the weather.
When is the best time to swim in Russian River?
The comfortable swim season — 18°C or warmer — runs through June, July, August, September, October, with the warmest water in July, August, September at around 24°C.
Can you swim in Russian River in winter?
Yes, but winter temperatures drop to roughly 9°C. Below 12°C, cold-water shock is the main risk: enter slowly, never swim alone, and limit time in the water.
Is Russian River safe for swimming?
Moving and inland water carries different risks from the sea: check flow after rain, avoid weirs and undercut banks, look for submerged rocks before jumping, and respect local access rules and water-quality notices.
Water safety tips
- Check the flow rate after heavy rain — inland water can rise and speed up within hours.
- Never jump before checking depth and submerged rocks; levels change through the season.
- Enter slowly to control cold-water shock, and get out before you start shivering.
- Swim with someone else and agree an exit point downstream before you start.
Swim season here: June, July, August, September, October.
Nearby swim spots
More swim spots in United States
- Deep Creek Hot Springs water temperature
- Yuba River water temperature
- Kern River water temperature
- American River water temperature
- Sacramento River water temperature
- Slide Rock State Park water temperature
- Havasu Creek water temperature
- Salt River (Arizona) water temperature
- All rivers & swimming holes
- All lake water temperatures
- Sea temperatures in United States