Spend less. Swim more.

Free Swimming Holes Near You

Looking for free swimming holes? Many natural spots—spring-fed pools, river bends, and waterfall plunge pools—are free to enter. Some sit inside parks or trailheads that charge a parking or day-use fee, and a few rely on donations, so it pays to verify the cost with the managing agency before you go. Below we group 126 verified free-access locations by type so you can find one to swim near you.

126
Verified free-access locations in our directory
30
States featured in this guide
1
Donation-based community favorites
Why this guide

We combed through every listing that promises no or low-cost access, prioritized locations with detailed directions and highlights, and grouped them by the type of experience you will find on arrival.

Planning essentials
  • Pack a picnic and reusable water bottles to avoid concession stand costs at nearby parks.
  • Arrive early on weekends—many free-access parks limit the number of vehicles once parking lots are full.
  • Verify current conditions with local ranger stations; trail or road closures can add costly detours if you need to re-route.
  • Consider weekday trips or shoulder seasons to avoid peak parking fees introduced at popular destinations.
Coverage snapshot
  • Pennsylvania 21
  • Arkansas 12
  • California 10
  • Washington 9
  • Virginia 8
  • North Carolina 7
Find free swimming holes near you

Use find swimming holes near me to search by your location, or browse swimming holes by state. Planning a trip? See our seasonal and skill-level planner, the wild swimming beginner's guide, and swim-and-camp weekenders for low-cost overnight ideas.

Crystal-Clear Spring Escapes

Slip into turquoise water that stays cool all season long. These spring-fed pools are free to enter and offer exceptional clarity, perfect for snorkels and underwater photos.

Spring favorite View details →

Buckeye-Travertine Hot Springs And Creek Destinations

California

<h2>About Buckeye and Travertine Hot Springs</h2><p>Tucked into the high desert landscape of the Eastern Sierra near Bridgeport, California, Buckeye and Travertine Hot Springs represent two of the most rewarding — and w…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal hot springs
  • Striking Sierra Nevada views
  • Camping facilities at Buckeye
Why we love it
Travertine's snow-white geothermal poolsBuckeye’s cascading hillside hot springs
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Best season The best time to visit is between late spring (May) and early fall (October) when the weather is mild, roads are access…
Access insights Moderate. Buckeye Hot Springs involves a short hike down to the creek, while Travertine requires navigation of an unpaved road.
Cost Free access
Facilities Buckeye Campground offers picnic tables and toilets, making it suitable for overnight stays. Travertine Hot Springs has…
Spring favorite View details →

San Francisco Hot Springs

New Mexico

<h2>About San Francisco Hot Springs</h2><p>Tucked into the remote southwestern corner of New Mexico, San Francisco Hot Springs is one of those rare places that rewards the effort it takes to reach it. Nestled within the…

Trip highlights
  • Natural hot springs in Gila National Forest
  • Geothermal pools by the San Francisco River
  • Scenic hiking trails with diverse flora and fauna
Why we love it
Natural hot springs alongside a cool riverRemote location for ultimate tranquility
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Best season Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures and good trail…
Access insights Moderate. The trail requires a hike that can vary in difficulty based on weather and river conditions. Consult the ranger station for curre…
Cost Free access
Facilities No facilities on-site. Visitors should be self-sufficient and prepared for a rustic experience. Established camping is…
Spring favorite View details →

Big Spring Park

Arkansas

<h2>About Big Spring Park</h2><p>Tucked into the rolling Ozark hills just outside Mountain Home, Arkansas, Big Spring Park is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you ever bother with a chlorinated pool. A natura…

Trip highlights
  • Clear waters fed by Big Springs
  • Swinging rope for fun dives
  • Picnic tables and restroom facilities
Why we love it
Natural spring-fed swimming holeHistoric location near Cotter bridge
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Best season Summer (June-August) for warm weather and vibrant greenery; Spring (April-May) for wildflowers; Autumn for quieter visi…
Access insights Easy access with parking available and no strenuous hiking required.
Cost Free access
Facilities Picnic tables for group meals, clean restroom facilities, and ample shaded areas for relaxation.
Spring favorite View details →

Hot Springs S. P.

Wyoming

<h2>About Hot Springs State Park</h2><p>Tucked into the high desert canyon country of north-central Wyoming, Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis offers something genuinely rare: a place where the earth exhales warmth…

Trip highlights
  • Therapeutic hot springs at 104°F
  • Legend Rock petroglyph site
  • Bison herd and wildlife viewing
Why we love it
Healing thermal watersAncient petroglyphs at Legend Rock
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Best season Spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscap…
Access insights Easy access via Route 20; facilities available for visitors of all abilities.
Cost None (Donations accepted)
Facilities State Bath House with moderated pools, clean restrooms, changing areas, and showers. No camping; day-use only park.

Waterfall Plunge Pools

These donation-supported or free-access cascades pair dramatic drops with refreshing spray. Expect slippery rocks—bring water shoes for safe footing.

Waterfall escape View details →

Big Creek Smoky Mountains Swimming Spots

North Carolina

<h2>About Big Creek Swimming Holes – Great Smoky Mountains, NC</h2><p>Tucked into the remote northeastern corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Waterville, North Carolina, the Big Creek area is one of the p…

Trip highlights
  • Easily accessible swimming hole at the picnic area
  • Secluded unnamed hole with a waterfall
  • Midnight Hole’s jacuzzi-like double falls
Why we love it
Jacuzzi-like pool at Midnight HoleHistorical Cherokee trails nearby
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Best season The best time to visit is summer (June to August) for warm temperatures and optimal swimming conditions. Spring offers…
Access insights Moderate - trails range from 1 to 2.5 miles with some rocky paths, requiring sturdy footwear and basic hiking experience.
Cost Free access
Facilities Picnic tables and toilets are available at the Big Creek Recreation Area. Camping is offered at Big Creek Campground wi…
Waterfall escape View details →

Canton Creek Swimming Spots On The North Umpqua River

Oregon

<h2>About Canton Creek Swimming Spots on the North Umpqua River</h2><p>Tucked inside the verdant folds of the Umpqua National Forest, the Canton Creek swimming spots offer one of southern Oregon's most rewarding and acc…

Trip highlights
  • Easy access swimming spots
  • Clear waters
  • Lush Pacific Northwest forest surroundings
Why we love it
Confluence of Canton Creek and Steamboat Creek creating diverse swimming environmentsAccessible yet secluded spots
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Best season Summer months, particularly June through August, offer optimal swimming conditions with warm temperatures and clear ski…
Access insights Easy: Short walk along the creek with well-marked paths. Suitable for families and individuals of all fitness levels.
Cost Free access
Facilities Canton Creek Campground offers picnic tables and clean toilets. Parking is available at the dead-end area near the cree…
Waterfall escape View details →

Douglas Creek

Washington

<h2>About Douglas Creek</h2><p>Tucked into a remote canyon in central Washington, Douglas Creek offers something increasingly rare in the modern world: genuine solitude in a landscape shaped by forces almost incomprehen…

Trip highlights
  • Basalt rock formations shaped by Ice Age floods
  • Cool, clear waters for swimming
  • Hiking trails with scenic views
Why we love it
Geological formations showcasing Ice Age historyCombination of swimming, hiking, and fishing opportunities
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Best season Spring and early summer for vibrant greenery and moderate creek levels; late summer for golden landscapes; fall for coo…
Access insights Moderate; requires hiking down rocky trails. Creek crossings may require parking and hiking in.
Cost Free access
Facilities Facilities are unknown; primitive camping is available in the canyon, with developed camping options at nearby Daroga S…
Waterfall escape View details →

Falls Of Dismal

Virginia

<h2>About Falls of Dismal</h2><p>Tucked into the forested hills of western Virginia, Falls of Dismal is one of those rare finds that rewards the curious traveler willing to trade pavement for trail. Flowing along Dismal…

Trip highlights
  • Natural pool under tiered waterfalls
  • Lush forest surroundings
  • Cool, clear waters year-round
Why we love it
Tiered waterfall system carved into sandstoneSecluded natural pool ideal for swimming
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Best season Summer months (June to August) for swimming; fall (September to November) for vibrant foliage and cooler hiking conditi…
Access insights Moderate; requires navigating rural roads and a short trail with uneven terrain. Suitable for most visitors with proper footwear.
Cost Free access
Facilities Limited facilities; small parking area and no restrooms near the falls. Nearby campsites provide additional amenities.

River Beaches & Swimming Holes

Wade into slow-moving river bends and creek-fed shallows that locals love. Most offer sandy bars or smooth rock ledges for lounging between swims.

River retreat View details →

Cave Creek

Arizona

<h2>About Cave Creek Swimming Hole — Seven Springs Recreation Area, Tonto National Forest</h2><p>Tucked into a rugged canyon in the Sonoran Desert, the swimming hole at Cave Creek feels like a discovery the desert is al…

Trip highlights
  • Secluded swimming hole surrounded by rocky formations
  • Trail through juniper stands and canyon slopes
  • Rich wildlife including mule deer and songbirds
Why we love it
Blend of desert and riparian ecosystemsHistorical significance tied to the Hohokam people
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Best season Spring (March-May) for wildflowers and mild weather; Summer (June-August) for cooling off in the creek; Fall (September…
Access insights Moderate hike with creek crossings and uneven terrain; accessible to most hikers with proper footwear.
Cost Free access
Facilities Picnic tables and toilets available nearby at the Seven Springs picnic area. No drinking water provided; visitors shoul…
River retreat View details →

Blue Hole - Ocoee

Tennessee

<h2>About Blue Hole on the Ocoee River</h2><p>Tucked into the Cherokee National Forest along the Upper Ocoee River in Tennessee, Blue Hole is one of those rare swimming spots that feels both discovered and wild. Set jus…

Trip highlights
  • Olympic history at the Ocoee Whitewater Center
  • Diverse swimming and snorkeling options
  • Secluded upriver pools for tranquility
Why we love it
Historical Olympic whitewater venueWide range of swimming depths and jumping spots
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Best season Late spring and early fall weekdays for clear water, fewer crowds, and cooler weather. Avoid weekends in summer due to…
Access insights Easy access from parking lot; short walk to the Blue Hole. Moderate difficulty for upriver exploration requiring rock-hopping.
Cost Forest Service fee area; $3 parking fee in the lower Ocoee Whitewater Center (OWC) lot.
Facilities Toilets available at Ocoee Whitewater Center. Free parking for 30 minutes or $3 all-day fee. No camping onsite but near…
River retreat View details →

Auburn American River Swimming Spots

California

<h2>About Auburn American River Swimming Spots</h2><p>Tucked into the rugged canyon country of the Sierra Nevada foothills, the American River swimming spots near Auburn offer something that chlorinated pools simply can…

Trip highlights
  • Cool, clear waters fed by Sierra Nevada snowmelt
  • Granite rock formations and sandy shores
  • Rich Gold Rush history surrounding the area
Why we love it
Historical significance tied to the Gold RushDiverse wildlife including river otters and hawks
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Best season Spring for dynamic swimming conditions due to snowmelt; summer and early fall for calm waters and warm weather; winter…
Access insights Moderate: Trails leading to the swimming holes can be steep and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear and basic fitness.
Cost Free access
Facilities Facilities are limited, so visitors should come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Camping opt…
River retreat View details →

Bluff Hole

Arkansas

<h2>About Bluff Hole</h2><p>Tucked along one of the Mulberry River's most scenic stretches in the Arkansas Ozarks, Bluff Hole is the kind of swimming spot that locals have been whispering about for generations. Position…

Trip highlights
  • Clear, cool waters of the Mulberry River
  • Rock formations perfect for jumping
  • Family-friendly picnic facilities
Why we love it
Natural rock formations for jumpingProximity to the Mulberry River's most scenic stretches
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Best season Summer for swimming and picnicking; spring for vibrant greenery; fall for striking foliage and cooler weather. Avoid af…
Access insights Easy to moderate. Accessible by car with minimal hiking required to reach the swimming hole.
Cost Free access
Facilities On-site restrooms and picnic tables available. No camping allowed, but nearby campgrounds offer options for extended st…

Community-Supported Gems

Donation boxes keep these swimming spots thriving. Bring small bills or use QR codes onsite to contribute—it helps maintain trails, restrooms, and signage.

Donation-supported View details →

Hot Springs S. P.

Wyoming

<h2>About Hot Springs State Park</h2><p>Tucked into the high desert canyon country of north-central Wyoming, Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis offers something genuinely rare: a place where the earth exhales warmth…

Trip highlights
  • Therapeutic hot springs at 104°F
  • Legend Rock petroglyph site
  • Bison herd and wildlife viewing
Why we love it
Healing thermal watersAncient petroglyphs at Legend Rock
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Best season Spring for blooming wildflowers, summer for lush greenery, autumn for warm colors, and winter for serene snowy landscap…
Access insights Easy access via Route 20; facilities available for visitors of all abilities.
Cost None (Donations accepted)
Facilities State Bath House with moderated pools, clean restrooms, changing areas, and showers. No camping; day-use only park.

More Free-Access Favorites

Rounding out the list, these spots stretch across 30 states—from coastal hideaways to inland forests. Pack a map or download offline directions before you go.

Free favorite View details →

Conococheague Creek

Pennsylvania

<h2>About the Conococheague Creek Swimming Area</h2><p>Tucked right into the heart of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, the Conococheague Creek offers one of the most accessible and genuinely fun unofficial swimming spots in…

Trip highlights
  • Cool, clear waters ideal for swimming
  • Rope swing for adventurous visitors
  • Urban location with easy accessibility
Why we love it
Urban swimming hole right in ChambersburgHistoric pedestrian bridge overlooking the creek
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Best season Summer is ideal for swimming and tubing, while spring and fall offer quieter experiences. Winter showcases picturesque…
Access insights Easy access with minimal hiking. Parking is available downtown, and the swimming hole is a short walk along a well-trodden path.
Cost Free access
Facilities No facilities available on-site, but downtown Chambersburg offers restaurants, parking, and other amenities within walk…
Free favorite View details →

City Island Beach

Pennsylvania

<h2>About City Island Beach</h2><p>Right in the middle of Pennsylvania's capital city, something unexpected awaits: a genuine riverside beach where the Susquehanna River laps against a sandy shore and the skyline of Har…

Trip highlights
  • Located in the heart of Harrisburg
  • Gentle waters ideal for families
  • Scenic views of the Susquehanna River
Why we love it
Urban swimming hole with natural charmHistorical significance of City Island
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Best season The best time to visit City Island Beach is during summer (June to August) for swimming and warmer water temperatures.…
Access insights Easy. A short walk from parking areas on City Island leads to the northern beach area.
Cost Free access
Facilities City Island Beach offers restrooms, picnic areas, and parking nearby. No camping facilities are available, but the isla…
Free favorite View details →

Shongelo

Mississippi

<h2>About Shongelo Recreation Area</h2><p>Tucked into the green heart of Bienville National Forest in central Mississippi, Shongelo Recreation Area is one of those quietly rewarding spots that rewards the curious travel…

Trip highlights
  • Located in Bienville National Forest
  • Free entry and camping available
  • Swimming, diving, and jumping activities
Why we love it
Combination of swimming, diving, and jumping spotsPicturesque forest setting
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Best season Spring through early summer (March to June) for mild temperatures and blooming flora; autumn (September to November) fo…
Access insights Easy access via marked roads; minimal hiking required to reach the swimming hole.
Cost Free access
Facilities Amenities include toilets, picnic tables, and designated camping areas for longer stays.
Free favorite View details →

Cowlitz River

Washington

<h2>About the Cowlitz River Swimming Spot</h2><p>Tucked deep within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, east of Packwood, Washington, this unofficial swimming hole on the Cowlitz River offers one of the Pacific Northwe…

Trip highlights
  • Clear water
  • Surrounded by lush forest
  • Short hike access
Why we love it
Sacred significance to the native Cowlitz peopleUnspoiled wilderness without facilities
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Best season The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when temperatures are warm, the water is accessible…
Access insights Moderate - Requires a half-mile hike on uneven terrain; suitable for most visitors with proper footwear.
Cost Free access
Facilities No facilities are available on-site. Visitors should bring their own supplies, including water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Free favorite View details →

Greenwood Furnace S. P.

Pennsylvania

<h2>About Greenwood Furnace State Park Swimming Area</h2><p>Tucked into the folds of Huntingdon County's Appalachian ridges, Greenwood Furnace State Park is one of Pennsylvania's most quietly captivating destinations —…

Trip highlights
  • Historic ironworks ghost town
  • Clear, cool creek for swimming
  • Year-round recreational activities
Why we love it
Historical remnants of Greenwood villageGhost town exploration
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Best season Summer (June to August) for swimming; Spring and Autumn for vibrant landscapes; Winter for snowshoeing and frosted trai…
Access insights Easy access with clear signage and facilities; trails vary from moderate to challenging for hikers.
Cost Free access
Facilities Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, parking, and camping options; trails and swimming areas are well-maintained.
Free favorite View details →

Sugar Creek Ozark Region Swimming Spots

Arkansas

<h2>About Sugar Creek Ozark Region Swimming Spots</h2><p>Tucked into the folded hills of western Arkansas, Sugar Creek winds through a landscape of mossy limestone bluffs, oak and hickory forest, and sun-dappled hollows…

Trip highlights
  • Cliff-jumping from 25-30 feet
  • Clear, refreshing waters
  • Scenic hiking trails
Why we love it
Cliff-jumping opportunitiesConnection to Dry Creek Wilderness
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Best season Late spring to early fall (May-September) for swimming and hiking. Fall foliage in October is perfect for photography.
Access insights Easy to moderate. Access via paved roads, short walks to swimming areas. Hiking trails vary in difficulty from beginner to intermediate.
Cost Free access
Facilities Jack Creek Recreation Area includes toilets, picnic tables, and rustic camping sites. Trails offer scenic views and con…
Check for fee changes
Free today does not always mean free tomorrow. Park systems occasionally introduce seasonal parking permits or reservation fees. Always confirm costs with the managing agency before you depart.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes

Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.