Summer is the time of year you’ll do anything to keep cool. Why sit in front of a fan when you can enjoy the cool air breezing off one of these wonderful swimming spots?

Dip your feet or your whole body in one of these pools. Keep scrolling to check out the best places in Illinois to swim.

1. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park
Flickr/John Poplett
The clearest water in Illinois is part of this man-made lake. It is 40 acres large and includes a built-in filtration system. The swimming spot is located at 8542 N Lake Rd. in Lena. More info and directions.
2. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Facebook/Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
Situated near Six Flags, this campground features both lake and pool access for all your swimming desires. The lake gets its name from its shape and is located at 32223 US-12 in Volo. More info and directions.
3. Kayak Morris
Facebook/Kayak Morris
You can camp right on the beach and enjoy access to endless swimming. Set up your tent and bonfire for a full weekend of fun. The campground is located at 801 Kayak Morris Rd. in Morris. More info and directions.
4. Spillway at Kincaid Lake
Flickr/Curtis Abert
This best-kept Illinois secret is located at the end of the lake, and locals love to hike there. Brave the slippery rocks and strong currents to reach the tranquil fresh water pool. It is located at 1 Spillway Rd. in Murphysboro. More info and directions.
5. Illinois Beach State Park
Flickr/Peter Ciro
This is one of the most popular destinations along Lake Michigan in Illinois. There are over 6.5 miles of shoreline as well as beaches, wetlands, and sand dunes. Get to swimming at 1 Lake Front Dr. in Zion. More info and directions.
6. Leone Beach
Flickr/Renee_Mcgurk
Though located within the city, this beach is not as well known as some others and rarely gets crowded, making it the ideal spot for a dunk. Enjoy the best views of Lake Michigan along this part sandy, part rocky beach. It is located at 1222 Touhy Ave. in Chicago. More info and directions.
7. Silver Springs State Park
Wikimedia Commons/IvoShandor
Enjoy swimming all year at this spring-fed pool so named for the way it sparkles. It is situated on the Fox River and is located at 13608 Fox Rd. in Yorkville. More info and directions.
8. Oak Street Beach
Flickr/Roman Boed
This popular downtown Chicago beach is known for its white sands and sparkling water. Take a dip along Lake Shore Drive or just splash through the shoreline. This beach is located at 1000 N Lake Shore Dr. in Chicago. More info and directions.

If you love swimming, check out these 10 epic waterparks in Illinois.

Do you frequent any of these swimming spots? Share your experiences and photos with us.

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