8 Refreshing Natural Pools You’ll Definitely Want To Visit This Summer In Arizona
If you’re looking for respite from the unrelenting Arizona summer heat, we know of several. From iconic spots like Slide Rock to lesser-known oases such as Encinoso, these eight refreshing natural pools are perfect for cooling off on a sweltering day.
1. Grasshopper Point Picnic Area (Sedona)
Nestled in the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon, Grasshopper Point is among the most popular swimming holes in the Sedona area, and all it takes is one look to understand why. The water lies at the base of a towering red rock wall, its substantial depth suitable for swimming and fishing. Several hiking trails branch off from Grasshopper Point, so you can go back and forth between exploring the rugged Coconino wilderness and taking dips to cool off.
Address: North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: North State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
2. Bull Pen Day Use Area (Camp Verde)
Just 15 miles east of Camp Verde, Bull Pen is a refreshing oasis perfect for brutal Arizona summer days. After driving down a well-maintained dirt road, you'll have just under a mile to walk from the parking area to the water, which you'll enter via a shallow pebble beach. The swimming hole is part of the gently babbling West Clear Creek, with a current so mild, you could float on your back, eyes closed, and hardly move an inch.
Address: Bull Pen Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Address: Bull Pen Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
3. Slide Rock State Park (Sedona)
Perhaps the most famous swimming hole in all of Arizona, Slide Rock is - as its name suggests - an 80-foot-long natural waterslide carved out of the surrounding red rocks by the powerful flow of Oak Creek. It gets quite busy during the summer months, so you'd best arrive early to ensure you get the chance to slide!
Address: 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: 6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
4. Encinoso (Sedona)
This lesser-known swimming hole is much smaller than most others on the list, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. With its limited capacity and remote location, Encinoso is hardly ever crowded - which means you'll likely have the water all to yourself! Lush greenery and towering canyon walls impart an enchanting vibe that makes you feel as if you've escaped to a faraway tropical paradise.
Address: AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: AZ-89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
5. Ellison Creek (Payson)
Better-known as the site of Water Wheel Falls, Ellison Creek is a pristine swimming hole dotted with gorgeous waterfalls. It's tucked away in a dense pine forest, letting you escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and wade in the refreshingly cool waters.
6. Romero Pools (Tucson)
Located midway along the 5.5-mile Romero Canyon Trail, the iconic Romero Pools are a local favorite summer destination tucked away in Catalina State Park. Not only do the pools offer some much-needed relief after trekking through the southern Arizona desert, but the crowds are also minimal since it takes a bit of effort to access them. Even better, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring mountain views while you swim!
Note: The trail is temporarily closed due to wildfire destruction, but we hope to see it open again soon.
Address: 11570 North Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85737
Note: The trail is temporarily closed due to wildfire destruction, but we hope to see it open again soon.
Address: 11570 North Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85737
7. The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek (Sedona)
Yet another Sedona-area swimming hole, The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek is a hotspot for summer recreation. All that stands between you and the water is a short, relatively easy 3.5-mile hike, which features plenty of spots to cool off along the way to The Crack itself. With plenty of shade offering much-needed respite from the unrelenting heat, this riparian oasis is exactly what your summer needs.
Address: Bell Trail, Rimrock, AZ 86335
Address: Bell Trail, Rimrock, AZ 86335
8. Crescent Moon Ranch (Sedona)
Not far from Slide Rock (yet much less crowded), the natural pools at Crescent Moon Ranch are a great alternative to the popular state park on especially busy days. The rocks are just as slippery, so you can slide around to your heart's content while soaking up spectacular views of nearby Cathedral Rock.
Address: Chavez Crossing Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
Address: Chavez Crossing Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
How many of these Arizona swimming holes have you visited? Did we leave off your favorite spot? Tell us your thoughts in the comments, then check out our previous article for more refreshing natural pools in Arizona worth a visit this summer.
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