Here Are 9 Alabama Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic

Alabama is well known for having very hot summers. And with warmer months right around the corner, you’re probably dreading the heat and thinking of places to swim in Alabama where you can cool off. Luckily, there are several rivers, creeks, and lakes throughout the state that offer great swimming spots, often referred to as “swimming holes.” And they’re some of my favorite places to spend warm summer days. If you’re looking for a great way to beat the upcoming summer heat, be sure to check out the following nine swimming holes in Alabama.

1. Cheaha Falls

Cheaha Falls, located within the Talladega National Forest on Cheaha Creek, is an excellent place for a swim. Just be careful when climbing the rocks — they can get very slippery. You can get to the falls via an easy 2-mile hike. Bring your swimsuit and water shoes and enjoy your time at this refreshing swimming hole in Alabama!

2. Cahaba River

At 194 miles long, Alabama's Cahaba River is the longest free-flowing river in the state. It's also one of the most biologically diverse rivers in the entire country. There are several swimming holes located along this beautiful river that are perfect for cooling off from the summer heat. You can also take a tubing trip down this lazy river if you'd like.

3. Mardis Mill Falls

Mardis Mill Falls, located in Blount County and also known as Graves Falls, is a gorgeous 15-foot waterfall. The area below the waterfall is very popular among kayakers and swimmers. Can you see yourself swimming here on a hot summer day? I can!

4. The Blue Hole

Located just 15 miles outside of Birmingham, in Pinson, is Turkey Creek Nature Preserve. It's the perfect place to visit if you're looking for a great swimming hole to take a dip in. Turkey Creek's Blue Hole is a popular swimming hole that attracts both locals and visitors alike. It's also one of the most beautiful swimming holes in the state of Alabama.

5. Caney Creek Falls

Caney Creek Falls, located within North Alabama's William B. Bankhead National Forest, is one of the state's most beautiful waterfalls. The area below the falls provides a great swimming hole for swimmers of all ages. Visit AllTrails for how to get to Caney Creek Falls.

6. The Hippie Hole

Located in northwest Alabama, within the Little River Canyon, is a popular swimming hole that's best known as the Hippie Hole. The Hippie Hole is one of the best swimming holes in Alabama, and it's well worth the hike to get there.

7. Turkey Creek Falls

Like the Blue Hole, Turkey Creek Falls is also situated within Alabama's Turkey Creek Nature Preserve and is a popular swimming spot for people of all ages. With a series of short falls, there are also rocks you can slide down. It's like visiting a waterpark, only it's natural!

8. Devil's Den Falls

At the bottom of Devil's Den Falls, which is located in Cheaha State Park, is a large pool that attracts many swimmers each summer. This is one of the area's best swimming holes, and it's best to visit after a heavy rainfall.

9. DeSoto Falls

Located near the small town of Mentone, DeSoto Falls (a series of three waterfalls) is one of the most-visited waterfalls in Alabama. It's also one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the South. If that's not enough, DeSoto Falls is also a favorite spot among the locals for summer swimming in Alabama.

Have you ever been to any of these nine swimming holes in Alabama? Also, if you have a favorite swimming hole, please share that with us through our nomination page.

Aside from swimming holes, did you know that Alabama has some great beaches? Be sure to check out this previous article showcasing eight of the best beaches in Alabama.