Budget & Free-Access Swimming Holes
Keep costs low without compromising on scenery. These handpicked swimming holes offer clear water, memorable settings, and either no entrance fee or donation-only access.
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.
- 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.
- Pennsylvania 21
- Arkansas 12
- California 10
- Washington 9
- Virginia 8
- Oregon 7
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.
Whitehorse Hot Springs
Oregon
<h1>Discover Whitehorse Hot Springs: Oregon's Hidden Desert Oasis</h1> <h2>Where Are Whitehorse Hot Springs Located?</h2> <p>Whitehorse Hot Springs, tucked away in the remote expanse of southeastern Oregon, offers a uni…
- Remote desert location
- Geothermal hot springs
- Free access and informal camping
- Steens Mountain Wilderness Area
- Alvord Desert
Olympic Hot Springs
Washington
<h1>Discover Olympic Hot Springs in Washington's Wilderness</h1> <h2>What Makes Olympic Hot Springs Unique?</h2> <p>Deep within the lush, temperate rainforest of Olympic National Park lies a cluster of geothermal wonder…
- Natural geothermal pools
- Accessible hiking trail
- Rustic and unspoiled setting
- Elwha River Valley
- Hurricane Ridge
Jemez Springs Natural Swimming Spots
New Mexico
<h1>Explore Jemez Springs Natural Swimming Spots in New Mexico</h1> <h2>Discover the Hidden Gems of Jemez Springs Swimming Holes</h2> <p>Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Santa Fe National Forest, the Jemez Spring…
- McCauley Warm Springs with its scenic hike and clear pools
- San Antonio Hot Springs' dramatic mountain views
- Spence Hot Springs' easy access and lively atmosphere
- Jemez State Monument
- Valles Caldera National Preserve
Hot Springs S. P.
Wyoming
<h1>Discover Hot Springs State Park: Wyoming's Natural Treasure</h1> <h2>Introduction to Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, WY</h2> <p>Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, is a destination that enthralls…
- Therapeutic hot springs at 104°F
- Legend Rock petroglyph site
- Bison herd and wildlife viewing
- Legend Rock petroglyph site (25 miles)
- Wind River Canyon (10 miles)
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.
Glide Oregon Swimming Spots
Oregon
<h1>Discover the Glide Oregon Swimming Spots in Southern OR</h1> <h2>A Scenic Oasis: What Makes Glide Oregon Swimming Spots Special</h2> <p>Tucked within the lush, green expanse of southern Oregon, the Glide Area offers…
- Family-friendly swimming and tubing
- Clear, cool waters
- Accessible via North Umpqua Highway
- Umpqua National Forest
- Roseburg wineries
Falls Of Dismal
Virginia
<h1>Falls of Dismal: Virginia's Hidden Swimming Hole Gem</h1> <h2>Discover the Falls of Dismal: A Natural Treasure in Virginia</h2> <p>Tucked away in the Jefferson National Forest of southwestern Virginia, the Falls of…
- Natural pool under tiered waterfalls
- Lush forest surroundings
- Cool, clear waters year-round
- Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg
- Cascade Falls in Pembroke
Big Creek Smoky Mountains Swimming Spots
North Carolina
<h1>Explore Big Creek Swimming Spots in the Smoky Mountains, NC</h1> <h2>Discover Big Creek: A Hidden Gem in the Smoky Mountains</h2> <p>Tucked away in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Big Creek…
- Easily accessible swimming hole at the picnic area
- Secluded unnamed hole with a waterfall
- Midnight Hole’s jacuzzi-like double falls
- Asheville’s arts and cultural scene
- Mount Mitchell State Park
Moonshine Falls Scenic Swimming Spots
South Carolina
<h1>Moonshine Falls: Scenic Swimming Holes in Upstate SC</h1> <h2>Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Moonshine Falls</h2> <p>Tucked away in the verdant foothills of Upstate South Carolina, the Moonshine Falls area offers…
- Cascading waterfalls
- Natural rock slides
- Diverse wildlife and flora
- Table Rock State Park
- Caesars Head State Park
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.
Phillips Landing
Delaware
<h1>Discover Phillips Landing: Delaware's Hidden Swimming Gem</h1> <h2>Why Phillips Landing is a Must-Visit Swimming Hole in Delaware</h2> <p>Tucked away in the tranquil embrace of Delaware’s Nanticoke River, Phillips L…
- Scenic Nanticoke River location
- Free entry with picnic facilities
- Ideal for swimming and wildlife viewing
- Trap Pond State Park (10 miles)
- Downtown Seaford (15 miles)
Mulberry River Swimming Spots, Ozark National Forest
Arkansas
<h1>Explore Mulberry River Swimming Spots in the Ozark National Forest</h1> <h2>Discover the Beauty of the Mulberry River in Arkansas</h2> <p>Tucked away in the heart of the Ozark National Forest, the Mulberry River are…
- Crystal-clear river water
- Accessible from Redding and Wolf Pen
- Stunning surrounding forest views
- Ozark Highlands Trail
- Mount Magazine State Park
Eno River Swimming Spots In North Carolina
North Carolina
<h1>Discover the Best Swimming Holes on the Eno River, NC</h1> <h2>Explore Eno River Swimming Holes in Durham, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough</h2> <p>Situated in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, the Eno Riv…
- Rope swing at Sennett Hole
- Deep quarry waters at Eno Quarry
- Family-friendly Bobbitt Hole
- Durham's West Point on the Eno Park
- Historic Hillsborough
Galeton
Pennsylvania
<h1>Discover Galeton, PA: A Hidden Swimming Hole Gem</h1> <h2>Why Galeton’s Swimming Hole is a Must-Visit Destination</h2> <p>Tucked away in the borough of Galeton in Potter County, Pennsylvania, lies a charming swimmin…
- Cool, clear waters of Pine Creek
- Rich historical backdrop in Galeton
- Seasonal beauty including fall foliage
- Colton Point State Park
- Lyman Run State Park
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.
Hot Springs S. P.
Wyoming
<h1>Discover Hot Springs State Park: Wyoming's Natural Treasure</h1> <h2>Introduction to Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, WY</h2> <p>Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, is a destination that enthralls…
- Therapeutic hot springs at 104°F
- Legend Rock petroglyph site
- Bison herd and wildlife viewing
- Legend Rock petroglyph site (25 miles)
- Wind River Canyon (10 miles)
More Free-Access Favorites
Rounding out the list, these spots stretch across 32 states—from coastal hideaways to inland forests. Pack a map or download offline directions before you go.
Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona
Arizona
<h1>Discover Camp Verde Swimming Holes: Arizona’s Natural Escape</h1> <h2>Where Are the Camp Verde Swimming Holes?</h2> <p>Tucked away in the rugged expanse of Arizona’s Coconino National Forest, the swimming holes in t…
- Crystal-clear water
- Cliff jumping opportunities
- Lush riparian vegetation
- Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Jerome Historic Town
Nantahala Gorge Swimming Spots
North Carolina
<h1>Discover Nantahala Gorge Swimming Spots in North Carolina</h1> <h2>Why Visit Nantahala Gorge Swimming Spots?</h2> <p>Nestled in the heart of western North Carolina, the Nantahala Gorge Area offers two distinct swimm…
- Deep, clear waters ideal for swimming
- Scenic evergreen forests
- Photography opportunities during all seasons
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Edisto River Area
South Carolina
<h1>Discover the Edisto River: South Carolina's Blackwater Oasis</h1> <h2>Why Visit the Edisto River Area in South Carolina?</h2> <p>The Edisto River Area is a captivating destination in South Carolina, weaving together…
- Longest free-flowing blackwater river
- Opportunities for swimming and canoeing
- Rich cultural and historical significance
- Charleston historic district
- ACE Basin Reserve
Breaks Interstate Park Swimming Spots
Kentucky
<h1>Explore Swimming Holes at Breaks Interstate Park, KY & VA</h1> <h2>Discover the Swimming Gems of Breaks Interstate Park</h2> <p>Nestled in the breathtaking Appalachians, Breaks Interstate Park spans the Virginia-Ken…
- Ratliff Hole: family-friendly swimming and tubing area
- Pool Point: cliff jumping and rope swings
- Grassy Creek: serene pools with crystal-clear waters
- Pikeville Cut-Through Project (KY)
- Breaks Interstate Park hiking trails
Bullhole
North Carolina
<h1>Discover Bullhole: A Scenic Swimming Hole in NC</h1> <h2>What Makes Bullhole a Must-Visit Swimming Spot</h2> <p>The Bullhole, a refreshing swimming spot situated along the South Fork Yadkin River in North Carolina,…
- Smooth granite formations for sliding
- Clear, cool river water
- Convenient facilities like restrooms and picnic tables
- Historic Statesville sites
- Winston-Salem museums and art galleries
Fairhope Wills Creek Swimming Holes
Pennsylvania
<h1>Discover Fairhope Wills Creek Swimming Holes in Pennsylvania</h1> <h2>Why Visit Fairhope Wills Creek Swimming Holes?</h2> <p>The Fairhope Area, home to two serene swimming holes, offers a slice of untouched natural…
- No facilities, fully natural experience
- Pristine waters of Wills Creek
- Perfect for family outings and solo adventures
- Shawnee State Park (camping and recreation)
- Bedford Historical Society Museum