If You Didn’t Know About These 11 Swimming Holes in Wisconsin, You’ve Been Missing Out

With so many creeks, rivers, and lakes in Wisconsin, there are plenty of opportunities around our great state to take a dip and wash away some of the summer heat. And we all know how important it is to cool down on a hot summer day! These Badger State swimming holes are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day and taking in the sights and sounds of a more natural setting. Grab your sunscreen and make a splash this summer at some of the best swimming holes in Wisconsin.

1. Dells of the Eau Claire Park - Aniwa

This swimming hole in Wisconsin rocks—literally! During your visit, check out the ancient volcanic rock that's been worn away by the Eau Claire River for millions of years. The scenery is beautiful, and the rocks do create some waterfalls and rapids, but there are plenty of calmer spots to dip your toes in as well.

2. Soo Lake - Newbold

Obviously lakes are a great place to cool off, but what makes Soo Lake one of the best lakes in Wisconsin for swimming is that it's just 13 feet deep. There's not a lot of boat traffic here and you'll be able to swim and play to your heart's content.

3. Minooka Park - Waukesha

This 4-acre pond has lifeguards on duty which is perfect for family adventures with the kids. The shoreline is peppered with trees that provide ample shade, and the scenery is just picture-perfect.

4. Turtle Creek - Beloit

Turtle Creek is a picturesque little swimming hole in Wisconsin that flows from Turtle Lake near Delavan, Wisconsin to the Rock River in South Beloit, Illinois. The calm little scenic waterway offers plenty of opportunities to slip in the water and cool off.

5. Amnicon Falls - South Range

The Amnicon River creates plenty of opportunities to take a dip here at this awesome Wisconsin state park. The park also happens to be home to some of our favorite waterfalls in the Badger State. Check out the waterfalls and enjoy your time splashing in these natural swimming holes in Wisconsin.

6. Redgranite Quarry - Redgranite

Redgranite is one of the best quarry lakes in Wisconsin, but don't go here without supervision and strong swimming skills. This former quarry draws folks from all over to relax and enjoy a day out of the heat, a wonderful spot to spend a summer day.

7. Willow Flowage - Little Rice

Isolated from roads and development, the Willow Flowage is an artificial lake in Oneida County formed by a dam on the Tomahawk River. There are 106 islands and 73 miles of shoreline here, almost all of it undeveloped. It's a bit of a wilderness escape, but it's one of the best lakes places to swim in Wisconsin without dealing with large crowds.

8. Quarry Beach - Sheboygan

Part swimming hole, part water park, Quarry Beach in Sheboygan is one of the best places to swim in Wisconsin, and it brings folks in from all over the state. You'll often find anchored inflatables in the water to help boost the fun at this popular swim spot.

9. Hartman Creek State Park - Waupaca

Located at the southern end of the Chain O' Lakes, this state park in Wisconsin is home not only to its eponymous creek but also to several small lakes that are far less crowded than the larger lakes farther north on the chain. This makes them perfect for swimming.

10. Fox Brook Park - Brookfield

Another former quarry, this lake in Brookfield is a great place to cool off or play in the sand. The white sandy beach is in the Milwaukee metropolitan area, and it's one of the most popular beaches in Wisconsin, so you may find large crowds here on the weekends.

11. Willow River State Park - Hudson

Willow River State Park has tons to offer the outdoor enthusiast, and there are plenty of places to slide into the river and cool off after a busy and hectic day at this popular Wisconsin park near the Minnesota border. You'll find a designated swimming area with plenty of picnic tables, outdoor grills, and drinking fountains, as well.

Did your favorite swimming hole in Wisconsin make the list? If not, be sure to nominate it, and share this article with someone you want to make a splash with this summer.

Want even more places to beat the summer heat this year? Waterparks are always a thrilling adventure, and Wisconsin has some awesome ones!

Read on to discover some of our favorite things to do in Wisconsin in the summer. Be sure to check out our Road Trip Essentials guide so you're properly packed and ready to hit the road.