Join the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum to Discover the Lost Township of Swim, OR

By Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum

The Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum is pleased to announce a new fundraising event, A Journey to the Lost Township of Swim. It's scheduled for Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum in Government Camp. The morning will begin with a delicious breakfast, followed by a staff-led presentation exploring the history of Swim. Guests will enjoy archival photographs and lesser-known stories before joining a guided walk through the century-old township. 

During the tour, participants will visit the former locations of the post office and general store, view remnants of cabin foundations and stone hearths, and explore the “naturally heated” pool site, including the remains of the dam and bathhouse foundation. The tour will also highlight where historic ski and toboggan runs once operated. For those interested, an optional short hike will lead to the site of Mt. Hood’s first Nordic ski jump on the east side of Multorpor. 

Founded in 1920, along the historic Barlow Road just east of Government Camp, the community of Swim was once a vibrant mountain resort. The small, bustling area featured several small businesses and a post office. The primary attraction was a warm-springs-fed large swimming pool, complete with a bathhouse. Rental cabins were also available for visiting tourists. 

If participants prefer not to take the ½ mile hike, the Swim site is also accessible by car. Limited parking is available close to Campsite #1 at Still Creek Campground.

Admission to this fundraising event is $100 per person. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Museum at (503) 272-3301. Each admission includes one raffle ticket, and seating is limited.

Collins Lake Resort has generously donated a raffle prize: a two-night stay in one of their condominiums, accommodating up to six adults plus children. The stay is valid for one year; some exclusions apply during peak weekend periods. Additional raffle tickets may be purchased for $25 each or five for $100, even if you aren’t able to attend the May 30 event. You do not need to be present to win.