13 Little Known Swimming Spots in Georgia That Will Make Your Summer Awesome

Believe it or not, there are plenty of swimming holes in Georgia worth considering as the temperatures rise. Most visitors to our great state don’t even realize how many truly incredible swimming holes or opportunities to refresh from those rising temperatures there are. Swimming at the base of a waterfall, you say? Where can we sign up?

It doesn’t matter where you are within the state of Georgia; there are always opportunities to stay cool. Whether you prefer the natural inland lakes in Georgia or the man-made swimming holes, you will always have a place for the family to set up shop and swim the afternoon away. Take a look at these 13 little-known swimming spots in Georgia that will give you and your family a season you’ll never forget.

1. The Beach at Clayton County International Park - Jonesboro, Georgia

When you first arrive at Clayton County International Park, you may think it looks like it should be part of an island chain, right? Nobody would have thought this beautiful beach was hidden away in Georgia! However, this man-made swimming hole is the perfect place to spend the summer, swimming all your troubles away. The park is also home to Spivey Splash Water Park with slides, a lazy river, and more. You can purchase tickets for the water park on the Spivey Splash website.

2. Unicoi State Park - Helen, Georgia

With over 1,000 acres to explore, plus an abundance of swimming opportunities, Unicoi State Park is a unique hidden gem within the Georgia park system that will make any summer adventure complete. In addition to swimming, the park features a lodge and offers activities such as archery, hatchet throwing, and fly fishing. Sounds fun to me!

3. Cherokee Falls - Cloudland Canyon, Georgia

We've said it before, and we'll say it again — Cherokee Falls at Cloudland Canyon State Park has some of the bluest water in the state. There is nothing more serene than swimming in this natural spot, with the sounds of a waterfall behind you.

4. Red Clay Resort - Cohutta, Georgia

While Red Clay Resort has been around for years, it still is one of the top swimming holes in Georgia that seemingly flies under the radar. There aren't too many places where you can swim in a spring-fed pool with water this clear.

5. Panther Creek Falls - Clarkesville, Georgia

Panther Creek Falls is an exciting and intense place to swim, especially after you complete the trail hike to get there! There is nothing more rewarding after working up a sweat than jumping into a swimming hole at the base of a waterfall. Who's ready for a plunge?!

6. Tybee Island Beach - Tybee Island, Georgia

Okay, so maybe this spot isn't little-known, but it definitely deserves to be on this list, mainly because it has some of the whitest, most pristine sand in all of Georgia. Plus, it's pretty much mandatory to visit at least once during the summer. Tybee Island Beach is a must-visit swimming spot in Georgia when the summer sun is at its hottest.

7. Blue Hole Falls - Hiawassee, Georgia

Waterfalls, sunshine floating down through trees, a cooling swimming hole to keep you refreshed — what more could you really want out of a summer day at Blue Hole Falls? Maybe packing a picnic could level up the experience. As an added bonus, High Shoals Falls is also on the same trail.

8. Fort Mountain State Park - Cohutta Wilderness

At nearly 4,000 acres, Fort Mountain State Park boasts some insanely picture-perfect views. But what's more, the lake, which is part of the state park, has a beach that's perfect for spending summer days away from crowds, catching some Zzzzz's, and soaking up some sunshine.

9. Sea Creek Falls - Suches, Georgia

Probably one of the lesser-known destinations on our list, Sea Creek Falls is a great place to enjoy both the outdoors and a hot summer day. Take the whole family and splash about under the sun at this delightful swimming hole in GA.

10. Lake Lanier - Northern Georgia

Lake Lanier is PERFECT for your summertime swimming adventures. Not only can you spend the weekend camping at the water's edge, but you can also bring your boat, hiking boots, fishing gear, and more to enjoy the best parts of this lake.

11. Jack's River Falls - Epworth, Georgia

Jack's River Falls is one of those hidden gem spots that not many people like to share details on, simply for the sake of preserving the true beauty. If you can make it through the trail, this local beauty is waiting for you for a cool, refreshing way to spend the afternoon.

12. Etowah River Abandoned Mine Tunnel - Etowah River

This incredible adventure is just waiting to be experienced this summer. Take a kayak through the river tunnel, and once you safely pop out the other side, you can have a victory swim in the refreshing river. Summer bucket list item to complete: an underground river tunnel? Check.

13. River Tubing in Helen, Georgia

A summer wouldn't be complete without a trip down the Chattahoochee River. Go tubing with your friends and family and create memories that will last a lifetime. You may even be able to bring your furry friend if they enjoy the water!

How many of these swimming holes in Georgia do you think you’ll check off your summer list this year? Or perhaps we missed one of your favorite places to go swimming in Georgia. If so, please send us a note through our nominations page.