If You Didn’t Know About These 9 Swimming Holes in Kentucky, They’re a Must Visit

As the warmer months creep ever closer, so does the urge to be around water, and a swimming hole in Kentucky can be like heaven on earth in this case. If we are honest, we’ll admit it: our state gets downright muggy. Fortunately for us, our cool, calm rivers and refreshing lakes provide a refreshing escape from the sticky weather. We covered some of the best swimming holes in Kentucky a while back, and now, we’ve got nine more great places to add to the list. Here are (more of) our picks for the best swimming holes in Kentucky:

1. Blue Heron - near Stearns

This Kentucky swimming hole is located under the footbridge in the picnic and camping area off Mine 18 Road in the old Blue Heron Mining Community, which is located towards South Fork. This is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest near Stearns. The swimming hole is a pretty deep, surprisingly clear pool that was created via Big South Fork. We think you'll want to spend an afternoon here this summer.

2. Clifty Creek - Jamestown

This area used to be popular for cliff jumping, but it has since been deemed much safer just to swim here instead. It is located off Clifty Creek Road, at the end, after a short walk to the cliff area. It is part of Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, and coming here is one of the best things to do in summer in Kentucky.

3. Grassy Creek - Breaks, VA

This little slice of heaven is just off Route 80 inside Breaks Interstate Park, which straddles the state line between Virginia and Kentucky. At the parking and picnic area, look for the Center Creek Trail, which is visible and easy to find. Center Creek flows into Grassy Creek. There are several swimming holes along the way, but the rocks can be slick, so use caution and wear closed-toed shoes!

4. Happy Hollow - Temple Hill

This long-time swimming spot, favored by generations, is in the Skaggs River at the Happy Hollow Road Bridge near Temple Hill. This is a refreshing spot the locals have loved for decades. There are no major diving spots, but they aren’t necessary if you just want to relax and have fun.

5. Lion's Club Park - Glasgow

This swimming hole is in Glasgow, Kentucky. It is inside the Lion’s Club Park and Fairgrounds area, where water enthusiasts will also find a dock and picnic area. It is a perfect spot to gather with friends and family for lounging in the sun and, of course, some swimming.

6. The Quarry by Pisgah Pike

This is an old quarry about a mile or so on the west side of Pisgah Bay, past the Hillman’s Ferry Campground. This is a magnificent spot to relax and swim, but make sure to use safety precautions. The water is deep, and there are no lifeguards on duty. As always, use caution when traveling solo.

7. Dog Slaughter Falls - Corbin

This is part of the Cumberland Falls Resort Park. You will find this waterfall and swimming hole off Forest Road, I95, which is unpaved. Find the trailhead for Dog Slaughter Falls Trail, cross a small footbridge, and continue on foot for about a mile and a half to the Falls. It is a great place to relax, but know ahead of time that the hiking trails and the area surrounding the falls are a little steep. People with weak or sensitive ankles should be mindful. Download AllTrails+ for trail conditions and other important information.

8. The Parklands at Floyds Fork - Louisville

Four separate parks come together as one along Floyds Fork, and Mother Nature’s artistic handy work is obvious. This area in Louisville is gorgeous, and the water is ridiculously refreshing. The Parklands at Floyds Fork is a perfect spot to swim with friends and family, surrounded by nature's beauty. So, pack a bag with your swimwear, towels, snacks, and sunscreen, and enjoy a day here this summer! This is one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky.

9. FRP LaGrange Quarry “The Quarry” - LaGrange

This gorgeous natural pool in LaGrange is a favored swimming spot for people in LaGrange, Louisville, and the surrounding areas—and it's easy to see why when you visit. Falling Rock Park Quarry has a fee, but the water is clean, and you can rent tubes or floats. It is a magnificent spot to lounge around on a hot Kentucky day. There will be people playing guitar and cooking out along the shore, so bring some goodies to eat! This swimming hole is seasonal and typically opens in May. I bet you can't wait for the warmer weather to arrive!

Not every one of the listed has an address. However, each one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky is a favored spot loved by the locals, and if you ask politely, they will probably know a safe route to get there, too.

Of course, these are just a few refreshing swimming spots to check out if you are in these areas; you could add a lot more! What do you think are the best swimming holes in Kentucky? If your favorite place to swim is not on this list, go ahead and nominate it! Maybe you'll see it in a future article.