There are many fantastic Missouri swimming locations that provide a refreshing break from the summer heat. From hidden gems to popular hotspots, these pristine water bodies cater to everyone – adrenaline junkies seeking cliff-diving adventures and families desiring a tranquil day at the beach. In this list, we’ve curated some beloved favorites along with fresh discoveries waiting to become your next summer getaway. So grab your swim gear and get ready to dive into the cool, inviting waters of the Show-Me State’s finest swimming holes!

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What are your favorite secret swimming holes in Missouri? Have you been to any of these Missouri swimming locations? We would love to hear from you!

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Missouri swimming locations

Where can I find places to swim in Missouri?

Missouri is a state with plenty of places to take a dip and cool off in the summer humidity. Some of the best are located in our beautiful state parks, like the one at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, which is clear, blue, and crisp all throughout the warmest months. Echo Bluff State Park is another great park with swimming holes, and so is Wakonda State Park. If you’d prefer to try and beat the crowds, there are always the nice, lesser-known little holes in the earth, like the base of Rocky Falls. For more of our favorites, check out these epic swimming holes in Missouri that might serve up a little inspiration for your next trip.

What are some of the best summer destinations in Missouri?

Some folks might dismiss Missouri as a “flyover” state, with nothing truly interesting or fun to do. Well, let them fly on over - because we’re just as much fun as anywhere else! We’ve got several destinations that are perfect for a summertime visit, like St. Louis, where we’ve got bunches of cultural and historical landmarks as well as plentiful museums. Osage Beach is right up next to the stunningly scenic Lake of the Ozarks, and you can get a boat rental and cruise the lake that way, or you can just relax on the shore. You’ll forget you’re in Missouri and not on the beach somewhere! 

Where are the best swimming spots in Missouri?

We kind of feel like the term “best” here is totally subjective; what you’ll find to be a perfect little swimming hole might be too busy (or too quiet) for someone else’s taste, but one thing is for sure: no matter where you end up, it’s going to be great! Some, for example, as a little more secluded, like the swimming hole at Blue Spring (the one at the White River, not the one on the Current River). This beautiful swimming hole is only accessible by canoe, ensuring that only the most dedicated of adventurers will find it. Rocky Falls also offers excellent respite from the heat and humidity, and the water is mostly shallow. Check out this list of our 7 favorite swimming holes in Missouri

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