Top 15 Swimming Holes in the United States for Summer Fun

Exploring a swimming hole epitomizes the essence of summer. From joyful splashing and daring slip-sliding to relaxing and enjoying the shoreline, there is an abundance of destinations in the U.S. featuring swim holes to fulfill your desires.

Regardless of whether you seek a romantic, picturesque retreat or a playful environment for children, nature has curated a selection for all preferences.

Discover the diverse water playgrounds below, fashioned by natural forces for your enjoyment.

1. Havasu Falls, Supai, AZ

Recognized as one of the quintessential swimming holes, Havasu Falls stands unparalleled. This breathtaking locale sits at the southern rim of the Grand Canyon, showcasing natural splendor.

Sun-baked sandstone creates a striking backdrop for the cascading water that plunges 100 feet into a radiant pool below.

The vivid blue of the pool significantly contrasts with the burnt-orange rock, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in water averaging 72 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.

This enchanting setting is reminiscent of a fairy tale. However, reaching this destination is not without its challenges. Deliveries to the nearby villages are still made via mules by the U.S. Postal Service.

To relax in this breathtaking environment, you must first undertake a strenuous 10-mile hike, arrange for a pack animal, or charter a helicopter.

Nonetheless, upon arrival at its shores, you can be assured that the vista is not overwhelmed by crowds and is genuinely worth the endeavor.

2. Redfish Lake, Stanley, ID

There is a certain luxury in lounging around Redfish Lake while taking in the vistas of the snow-capped Sawtooth Mountains in the distance.

In addition, a vibrant bird population, featuring peregrine falcons and melodious warblers along with various songbirds, enhances the appeal, prompting contemplation as to why one had not ventured into the backcountry sooner.

This pristine body of water is over 4.5 miles long and offers an array of activities for those looking to remain active, alongside accommodations that allow for prolonged stays.

3. Sliding Rock, Brevard, NC

As the name implies, the highlight of this warm-weather destination is a smooth 60-foot boulder.

Centuries of water flow have sculpted the natural slide, with the flowing water guiding riders into the river below.

Lifeguards supervise during peak periods, and guests should anticipate waiting for their turn to experience the exhilarating plunge into the 50-degree Fahrenheit water.

It is vital to note that the rocks are not as smooth as water park slides; therefore, wearing appropriate swim gear over your bathers is advisable. This popular location is easily accessible, located just off Highway 276 in Pisgah National Forest.

4. The Homestead Caldera, Midway, UT

While many swimming holes are typically associated with refreshing summer escapes, this location provides a unique experience.

Essentially a sinkhole, this mineral-rich pool is partially enclosed by a 55-foot high open dome.

Previously, visitors would need to rappel from the roof to indulge in the year-round 90-degree Fahrenheit water; fortunately, present-day visitors can utilize a tunnel.

Relax in this year-round hot bath and relish the invigorating properties of the mineral-rich waters.

5. Chena Hot Springs, Fairbanks, AK

These geothermal hot springs not only offer therapeutic benefits for rheumatism and arthritis, as well as skin and respiratory conditions, but also provide opportunities to witness the aurora borealis.

The mineral-rich waters have drawn visitors seeking relief for over a century, from early gold miners to modern-day adventurers.

Additionally, you can explore The Aurora Ice Museum, the sole establishment of its kind worldwide.

Maintained at 25 degrees Fahrenheit, the museum showcases ice sculptures created by world champion ice carver Steve Brice, and visitors can enjoy a cocktail served in a martini glass crafted from ice.

6. Cummins Falls, Cookeville, TN

Cummins Falls is remarkable; a tall, slender cascade leads to a series of broad, shallow, terrace-like falls that culminate in a large pool.

A viewing area located less than half a mile from the parking lot allows for effortless enjoyment of this magnificent waterfall.

However, if you wish to explore further and fully appreciate its grandeur, be prepared for some adventure.

The reward is undoubtedly worth the effort! The trail descends over a mile through mixed terrain that can be slippery.

Ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and bring only essential items.

Life jackets are advised for children, and the trail may prove challenging for younger visitors.

7. Mooney Falls, Supai, AZ

At just over 200 feet in height, Mooney Falls is the tallest fall in the region.

The scene resembles that of an advertisement, where a fit and bronzed individual dives into the refreshing waters below.

A visit to this location is not for the faint-hearted or those averse to heights; the descent is perilous, steep, slick, demanding, and requires a good degree of bravery using ladders and chains. Is it worth it? Absolutely.

The falls can be found a little over 2 miles from Supai, just beyond the campgrounds.

8. Big Hollow Recreation Area, Des Moines, IA

This 178-acre lake has numerous attributes that make it an excellent destination for water-related activities.

Visitors can engage in canoeing, fishing, or swimming in the designated areas bordered by a sandy beach.

If swimming isn’t to your liking, alternatives such as shooting, archery, or visiting the observatory to stargaze are available.

This popular locale, situated just 10 miles north of Burlington, experiences significant activity.

9. Johnson’s Shut-Ins, Reynolds County, MO

Johnson’s Shut-Ins can be considered more of a natural water park than a traditional swimming hole, but it offers substantial enjoyment, especially for children.

Smooth volcanic rock deposited in the pristine waters of the Black River over countless years has transformed the river into a cascade of pools, eddies, and slides.

Join the many visitors indulging in play and experience the thrill of splash and slide, but remember to bring water shoes.

This lively destination is located 2 hours from St. Louis and tends to become quite crowded on warm weekends.

10. Barton Springs Pool, Austin, TX

This 3-acre lake, situated near the Colorado River in Austin, TX, has been a refreshing retreat for Texans for many years, and it is reputedly where Robert Redford learned to swim.

What could be better than lounging on the grassy banks at this well-maintained swimming hole? The year-round swimming area maintains an average temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit and is replenished by natural springs.

Although Barton Springs may lack the romance of a secluded oasis, it offers cleanliness, safety, and easy access.

Depths reach up to 18 feet, and lifeguards are on duty daily from 8 a.m.

11. Jacobs Well, Wimberley, TX

Jacobs Well marks the terminus of one of the longest underwater cave systems in Texas.

Due to the lack of appropriate training or equipment for diving here, scuba divers have unfortunately given this location a reputation for being perilous.

For swimmers and those wishing to relax, however, this site is enchanting.

The seemingly endless spring-fed crystal-clear waters beckon you to dive into infinity.

Although the hole itself is only 12 feet across, the shallows extend a bit further.

Capacity is limited to 60 individuals every 2 hours, and advance arrangements are advised up to two weeks prior.

12. Warren Falls, Warren, VT

Warren Falls forms a part of The Mad River and is ideal for those who enjoy leaping off high and low boulders into the water.

Encourage the daring to join their fellow adventurers as they hurl themselves from ancient rock formations into the clear waters below.

While the falls may not be the most striking, the surrounding pools and boulders create a summer paradise that everyone can appreciate.

13. Hamilton Pool, Dripping Springs, TX

Hamilton Pool is distinctive and breathtaking.

The limestone formations create a canopy, remnants of a collapsed grotto that would have once enveloped this body of water.

The waterfall cascades 50 feet over the outcropping, allowing you to cool off while savoring the beauty of your surroundings.

Limestone slabs frame the water’s edge, and stalactites dangle from the remnants of the roof.

This is truly postcard-worthy scenery.

This site is popular; therefore, be sure to arrive early, as access is limited by available parking spaces.

14. Dorset Quarry, VT

As suggested by its name, this location is not entirely natural; however, it remains a source of enjoyment.

Founded in 1785, the quarry was the first commercial marble quarry, providing marble for numerous significant projects, including the New York Public Library.

After ceasing operations, the quarry filled with spring water and transformed into a 60-foot deep swim hole.

Surrounded by platforms for diving into the water below, the varying heights ensure that everyone can find a suitable height to jump from or gradually work their way up to higher jumps.

15. God’s Bath, Sonora, CA

Situated in the Sierra Nevada Foothills, this secluded wilderness serves as an ideal backdrop for discovering hidden swim holes.

The adventure commences with a 2.5-mile hike to reach the location and continues as you engage in cliff jumping.

Swim beneath the waterfall, bask in the sun atop granite boulders, or enjoy frolicking in the water.

A small hollow, approximately 4 feet wide, has been carved by the river.

Dive in here and emerge through the bottom, surfacing for air in the main pool below. A delightful experience!