Every summer in Oklahoma, when the heat becomes overwhelming thanks to the humidity, Oklahomans swarm to the lakes, creeks, rivers, and swimming holes to cool off. As the lakes begin to warm up as the days do, most swimming holes stay a nice, chilly temperature year-round, and are the perfect spots to relax and take a dip in the refreshing water. Here are seven of the best swimming holes in Oklahoma to check out this summer:
1. Spavinaw Creek, Spavinaw
Clear, turquoise waters flow from Spavinaw Creek, and visitors enjoy the swimming area quite a bit. You'll find a rope swing as well as rocks for jumping, along with both shallow and deep waters. Swim to your heart's content at one of the best Oklahoma swimming holes! To learn more, visit the Travel OK website.
2. Boy Scout Hole, Tahlequah
Located within Barron Fork Creek, Boy Scout Hole is a family-favorite spot to cool off in the heat. The swimming hole has boulders to sit on (and jump off), and a rope swing. The area has shallow spots and deep spots, so swimmers of all levels will find something to enjoy.
3. Gage Artesian Beach, Gage
This one-of-a-kind swimming hole in Oklahoma has sides like a swimming pole and is filled with natural, crisp mineral water. The bottom is sandy, like that of a lake, and the swimming hole has diving boards and slides! The depth of the water ranges from three feet to 14 feet, and swimmers will rarely see any fish swimming in the hole. It is ideal for swimming during the hottest months of the year. Visit the
Travel OK website for more information on one of the best secret swimming holes in Oklahoma.
4. Flint Creek, Delaware County
Located on the Oklahoma/Kansas border, Flint Creek Water Park is the perfect place to go to cool off when it gets too hot. You'll find all sorts of depths of water, and there's even a water slide flowing into the creek. If you're looking for rocks to jump off of, don't worry: the area has plenty for your enjoyment. Just be careful, of course.
Check out this video by @takyoutube:
5. Little Niagara, Sulphur
As the most popular swimming spot on Travertine Creek, Little Niagara offers visitors cold mineral water for cooling off in the hot months. Take a trip to Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur to see the beauty that surrounds Little Niagra!
Check out this video by @americantravelgram3175:
6. Blue Hole, Salina
Blue Hole Park is a popular swimming hole and destination for Oklahomans and visitors alike looking to cool off in ice-cold water. Young swimmers love to catch crawfish in the clear water, and a concession stand is open during summer months. This is certainly one of the best swimming holes in Oklahoma!
Check out this footage by @FrankBoston:
7. Blue River, Tishomingo
This spring-fed river has several falls and ledges to ogle at when the water flow is high enough. The area is a popular fishing spot, but it's also an inviting swimming hole! The upper river portion is clear, and the lower river portion is deep and muddy. Visitors will find lots of wading opportunities at Blue River. Visit the Chickasaw Country website for more information.
For more of the best swimming holes in Oklahoma, check out Part One of our swimming holes. Where is your favorite swimming hole in Oklahoma? Did we include it, or would you like to tell us about it? Please do so in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!