15 Extraordinary Swimming Holes Around The U.S. Everyone Must Visit
Some of the best swimming holes in the U.S. are refreshingly crisp and Caribbean clear, and pretty hard to pass up. Toss in a stunning waterfall backdrop, an underwater cave, or a cliff for jumping, and they become even more tempting. Don’t believe how beautiful some are? Check out these 15 breathtaking swimming locales and see for yourself.
Just an easy hike away, this gem is one of the best swimming holes in the U.S. This is mainly because it is flanked by a series of four — count 'em, four — separate waterfalls, each one as beautiful as the last. Want to see more? Check out these Tennessee swimming holes.
More than just a swimming destination, Jacob's Well is home to an intricate underwater cave system that descends over 200 feet. This U.S. cenote draws local and national divers alike. Above the surface, look for a series of towering rocks, perfect for jumping off of or just catching some rays. Need some more suggestions? View this expanded list of Texas swimming holes.
Tucked along the Princeville seaside is a picturesque tide pool nicknamed the Queen's Bath. Though it's a somewhat steep descent to this U.S. swimming hole, a soak in the salty waters is worth the hike down. Read up on more Hawaii swimming holes.
Queens Bath, Hawaii 96778, USA
4) Salt Springs State Park - Montrose, Pennsylvania
This Pennsylvania state park is loaded with trails, campsites, and places to swim, like the Fall Brook Natural Area. You could definitely spend a day or, heck, a whole week around these parts. Want even more suggestions? Here is a great list of Pennsylvania swimming holes.
Salt Springs State Park, 2305 Salt Springs Rd, Montrose, PA 18801, USA
Just off the Kennicott River, hikers will find this stunning swim spot. It's one of the best swimming holes in the U.S as its backdrop includes a majestic glacier. Take a look at this list of other swimming holes in Alaska.
The result of volcanic activity over a billion years ago, the igneous rocks surrounding Johnson's Shut-Ins offer up a lesson in natural history as well as a great place to take a dip in a U.S. swimming hole. Look for hikes, camping, and more at what many consider to be Mother Nature's playground. If you're looking for more Missouri swimming holes, check out this list.
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA
Did someone say "natural Slip 'N Slide?" Take a ride down this smooth rocky ramp for a once-in-a-lifetime experience — we swear it doesn't hurt! Crisp mountain water greets you at the bottom. Here's a full list of North Carolina swimming holes if you are looking for more.
Featuring sparkling blue water under a palm tree oasis in the Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs is one of Florida's oldest and most loved dipping holes. It's also one of the best swimming holes in the U.S. Find more Florida swimming holes to explore.
Ditch the Sedona crowds at Slide Rock and check out this area several miles south. It's a short distance east from the Red Rocks campground, so it's easy to find. Did we mention that the backdrop is breathtaking? Learn more about Arizona swimming holes.
Crescent Moon Ranch Road, Crescent Moon Ranch Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
Thrill seekers, rejoice. The towering cliffs surrounding this refreshingly chilly U.S. swimming hole will add an extra dimension to your summertime fun. Looking for more places to cool off in Colorado? Check out even more Colorado swimming holes.
Referred to as one of Mississippi’s "best kept secrets," the D’Lo Water Park is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Located on the Strong River, the park is extremely wooded and peaceful, making it an excellent place for a relaxing dip on a hot summer day. Want more? Check out these other Mississippi swimming holes.
D'Lo Water Park, 135 D'Lo Park Rd, Mendenhall, MS 39114, USA
12) Long Shoals Wayside Park - Sunset, South Carolina
Located inside Poe Creek State Forest, this swimming hotspot is popular among tourists and locals alike. Be prepared for chilly waters, even on scorching hot days. Want more South Carolina swimming destinations? Take a look at a longer list of swimming holes in South Carolina.
Long Shoals Roadside Park, Scenic Hwy 11, Pickens, SC, USA
Lester River has some of the best swimming holes in the U.S. The Deeps is well known for jumping, but be sure to exercise extreme caution here. Find more Minnesota swimming holes.
Take the plunge if you dare at this Virginia attraction that's shaped just like a real bathtub. Be warned: the hike to this U.S. swimming hole isn't for the faint of heart. In fact, it's been deemed "extremely challenging" by hiking experts. Get details on more Virginia swimming holes.
Devil's Bathtub, Devils Fork Loop Trail, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Located in Chickasaw National Park, this creek is a popular destination for those wanting a cold and clear place to swim. Don’t forget to bring your tennis shoes and hike the 1.5-mile trail that runs along the creek. Read up on other Oklahoma swimming holes.
Travertine Creek, Oklahoma 73086, USA
So, are you packing your bags yet and heading to one of these U.S. swimming holes? (I am!) What other incredible swimming holes around the U.S. would you add to this list? If you’ve been to these or other amazing places to swim in the U.S., tell us in the comments!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Swimming Holes in the U.S.
June 22, 2022
Rachel Raimondi
What state is the best for finding good swimming holes?
Within each of the 50 states, you are bound to find at least one swimming hole to cool off in. However, depending on your region, there are a few states that have some of the best.
In the west, head to First Creek in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In the southwest, head to Devil’s Punchbowl off Independence Pass Road in Colorado.
The longest cave on the East Coast? Luray Caverns in Virginia!
The largest cave chamber in the U.S.? Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico!
What states have the best waterparks?
While many U.S. states have waterparks, it’s Wisconsin and the city of Wisconsin Dells in particular, that actually has the moniker of “Waterpark Capital of the World”. In its under 20 square miles, there are 20 parks. Whether it’s tall and fast slides, water coasters, wave pools, raft rides, or any other kind of waterpark fun you can think of, there’s something for everyone here. Some of the best waterparks in Wisconsin include:
