Here Are 12 Nevada Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic

Nevada is not only the hot spring capital of the world, but we’re also home to some pretty epic swimming holes. These Nevada swimming holes flow in the form of whitewater parks, spring-fed pools, creeks, and scenic reservoirs.

If you're looking for a fun way to spend a summer day with family or friends, consider taking a dip in any of these Nevada swimming holes. Some may require a road trip or a hike. Others are located in your neighborhood. All are a refreshing way to cool off from the heat of summer and are worthwhile places to spend some time.

1. Sparks Marina Park – Sparks

With a beach and a designated swimming area with lifeguards, Sparks Marina Lake is among Nevada's popular natural swimming pools. There are even areas for non-power boats, fishing, and walking.

2. McGill Pool – Ely, McGill

A swimming pool fed by a natural spring, McGill Pool has a slide, diving boards, and a sandy beach. This swimming hole is located 12 miles north of Ely on RT 93 at Dairy Road and Main Street. It's one of the best hidden swimming holes in the state.

3. Truckee River Whitewater Park – Reno

People of all ages enjoy swimming and playing at this 11-pool Truckee River attraction, located in the middle of Reno. Explore the waters by kayak, canoe, raft, or tube; or cool off and make a splash.

4. Whitewater Park at Rock Park – Sparks

Downstream from the Reno Whitewater Park, Whitewater Park at Rock Park in Sparks offers five drop pools for kayaking, tubing, and rafting. Located at 1515 S. Rock Blvd., it also features safe water play areas for children and families.

5. Cave Lake State Park – Ely

The 32-acre Cave Lake reservoir is one of the most fantastic Nevada swimming holes. Fishing, boating, hiking, camping and picnicking are also popular activities here. The park is located eight miles south of Ely off U.S. 93.

6. Diver's Cove at Sand Harbor Beach – Incline Village, Lake Tahoe

A secluded bay at the popular Sand Harbor Beach, Diver’s Cove offers shade from the trees and huge rocks for diving.

Take a look at this video by @caligirlwholoves2travel381:

7. Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area – Laughlin

With 20 years as a state park, Big Bend is part of the Colorado River. It is beautifully situated among the mountains at 4220 S Needles Hwy 3. A great place to swim, the water is usually warm and there are tons of beaches, making it one of the best natural waterparks in Nevada!

Take a look at this video by @mjodr:

8. Oak Creek – Las Vegas

This natural spring is located about one mile down the Oak Creek Trail at Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area (and is typically only full due to rainfall or melting snow). Take the Scenic Loop to Oak Creek Trail. It’s the last turn-out in the 13-mile, one-way loop and is one of the best hidden swimming holes in Nevada.

9. First Creek – Las Vegas

Deepest in the spring (with levels varying, and sometimes empty, depending upon rain and snowfall), First Creek's swimming hole includes a waterfall. It is located outside of the Red Rock Canyon Park entrance, between the park and Spring Mountain Ranch. The hike is about two miles round-trip.

10. Angel Lake – Wells

While the water may be cold, you can swim with gorgeous views of the surrounding cliffs or follow the hiking trails to find other Nevada swimming holes. Located in the East Humboldt Mountain Range, the area includes many campgrounds and picnic spots.

11. Wild Horse Reservoir - Elko

Located along the Owyhee River in northeastern Nevada, Wild Horse Reservoir has a small swimming beach on its northeastern shore. One visit here and you'll see for yourself why it's one of the best Nevada swimming holes.

12. Colorado River Beach – Goldstrike Canyon

Just downstream from Hoover Dam, this swimming hole is normally accessible at the end of a four-mile trail past Goldstrike Hot Springs. It’s a small rocky beach with clear water that’s great for swimming. The trailhead is located off Exit 2 (for Hoover Dam) about 0.3 miles past the Hoover Dam Lodge on US 93/95. The trail is closed from May through September, but the river (part of the Black Canyon Water Trail) is still accessible for swimming near an old mining town in Eldorado Canyon.

Have you been to any of these wonderful natural pools? Let us know! If you enjoyed reading about these Nevada swimming holes, you might also like There’s No Better Place To Be Than These 9 Hot Springs In Nevada.