Set up camp by the water

Swim & Camp Weekenders

Pair refreshing daytime dips with starlit nights. These itineraries feature reliable camp access—from tent-only coves to RV-ready basecamps.

224
Swim spots with camping nearby
1
Waterfront campgrounds
4
Backpacking-ready escapes
Weekend playbook
  • Reserve campsites early—popular swim-and-camp combos can book out months ahead in peak season.
  • Double-check fire restrictions and pack a stove alternative for no-burn periods.
  • Bear hangs or storage lockers are mandatory in many forest and mountain parks—pack accordingly.
  • Bring quick-dry camp shoes so you can change out of wet footwear before settling in for the evening.
Top weekend states
  • Pennsylvania 20 featured trips
  • Tennessee 17 featured trips
  • California 16 featured trips
  • New York 15 featured trips
  • Oregon 14 featured trips
  • Virginia 14 featured trips
Reservation reminders

Many public lands now require online reservations for both day-use parking and campsites. Confirm requirements two weeks before departure to avoid on-arrival surprises.

Waterfront Campgrounds

Sleep within earshot of lapping water. These campgrounds sit directly beside the swimming hole or within a short stroll.

Waterfront camping View details →

Elrod Falls

Tennessee

Elrod Falls is a three-tier waterfall in Hancock County, Tennessee. It offers two different kinds of visit: a lower-falls stop reached by vehicle and a longer outing toward the upper tiers. Decide which you want before…

Trip highlights
  • Three-tier waterfall near Sneedville
  • Vehicle approach to the first tier
  • Separate hikes toward upper falls
Why we love it
Multiple waterfall tiers in Hancock CountyLower-falls visit distinct from upper-tier hiking
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Best season Choose settled weather for a waterfall visit. Summer warmth does not establish safe flow or water quality; reconsider s…
Access insights The lower falls are described as accessible by car, while upper tiers require hiking. Trail grade, current condition and accessible water e…
Cost Current fees and parking charges are not confirmed by the reviewed official tourism sources.
Facilities Tourism sources describe picnicking but do not confirm tables, toilets, changing rooms or potable water. Do not assume…

Drive-In Basecamps

Arrive, pitch, and play. These sites offer convenient parking, making them ideal for quick getaways or family trips with lots of gear.

Drive-in ease View details →

Cave Creek

Arizona

Tucked into a rugged canyon in the Sonoran Desert, the swimming hole at Cave Creek feels like a discovery the desert is almost reluctant to share. Part of the Seven Springs Recreation Area within Tonto National Forest,…

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 Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Picnic tables and toilets available nearby at the Seven Springs picnic area. No drinking water provided; visitors…
Drive-in ease View details →

Chickamauga Creek

Tennessee

Tucked into the folds of the Tennessee landscape just a short drive from downtown Chattanooga, Chickamauga Creek offers one of the region's most beloved natural escapes. This unofficial, user-maintained swimming…

Trip highlights
  • Clear aquamarine pools
  • Rope swings and cliff jumps
  • Easy hiking access
Why we love it
Series of unique swimming spotsIconic 'Blue Hole' with rope swings and cliffs
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Best season Spring for wildflowers and fewer crowds, Summer for prime swimming conditions, Autumn for striking foliage, Winter for…
Access insights Easy hike; trail is wide and accessible, with a 30-minute walk to the main swimming hole.
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Picnic tables are available; no restrooms or camping facilities. Bring essentials like water and snacks.
Drive-in ease View details →

Bluff Hole

Arkansas

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. Positioned between the small town…

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 Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities On-site restrooms and picnic tables available. No camping allowed, but nearby campgrounds offer options for extended…
Drive-in ease View details →

Havasu Falls

Arizona

There are places in this world that seem too vivid to be real, and Havasu Falls is one of them. Tucked deep inside the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the red-rock canyon country of northern Arizona, this legendary…

Trip highlights
  • Turquoise blue waters from travertine deposits
  • 100-foot dramatic waterfall plunge
  • Rope swing for adventurous visitors
Why we love it
Surreal turquoise waters from natural mineral depositsDeep cultural ties to the Havasupai tribe
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Best season Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) for mild temperatures and ideal swimming conditions. Summer can be ver…
Access insights Moderate to Difficult - An 8-mile hike from Hualapai Hilltop that requires preparation and physical stamina.
Cost Yes-entrance fee and camping or lodge fee
Facilities Facilities include a lodge and campground with basic amenities. Reservations are required for both.

Backpacking Overnights

Earn every plunge. These swimming holes sit along moderate-to-strenuous trails where you will pack in your gear for a remote overnight.

Trail overnight View details →

Auburn American River Swimming Spots

California

Tucked into the rugged canyon country of the Sierra Nevada foothills, the American River swimming spots near Auburn offer something that chlorinated pools simply cannot replicate: the raw, elemental pleasure of cold,…

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 Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Facilities are limited, so visitors should come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen. Camping…
Trail overnight View details →

Harbin Hot Springs

California

Tucked into the rolling hills of Lake County, California, Harbin Hot Springs is one of the most distinctive wellness retreats in the American West. Nestled near the small town of Middletown, the property sits within a…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal hot springs with therapeutic waters
  • Clothing-optional soaking experience
  • Workshops and courses onsite
Why we love it
Geothermal pools with mineral-rich watersClothing-optional policy for freedom of expression
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Best season Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is busier with lon…
Access insights Moderate access due to winding roads near the site, but no hiking is required as the springs are within the retreat’s grounds.
Cost Yes, see web site
Facilities Onsite camping available for a fee, limited cafeteria services, workshops, main pools, sauna, and conference facilities.
Trail overnight View details →

Arnold Valley Pool

Virginia

Tucked deep into the folds of the Appalachian highlands of western Virginia, Arnold Valley Pool is the kind of place that rewards the curious and the patient. Fed by the cool, clear waters of East Fork Elk Creek, this…

Trip highlights
  • Clear waters
  • Natural rock slide
  • Secluded forest setting
Why we love it
Natural slide carved by the creekRope swing over the water
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Best season Late spring through early fall (May to October) for warm temperatures and ideal swimming conditions. Autumn offers stri…
Access insights Moderate. Access requires navigating unmarked gravel roads; suitable for vehicles with good ground clearance.
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities No facilities available. Visitors should bring their own supplies, including water, snacks, and safety gear.
Trail overnight View details →

Baby Falls On The Tellico River

Tennessee

Tucked into the emerald corridors of Cherokee National Forest in southeastern Tennessee, Baby Falls is one of those places that earns its reputation entirely on its own terms. A 15-foot cascade tumbles down the Tellico…

Trip highlights
  • 15-foot cascading waterfall
  • Deep pool for swimming and jumping
  • Unique astro-turf-like surface on falls
Why we love it
Astro-turf-like grass at the falls' topDeep natural pool perfect for jumping
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Best season Summer (June to August) for swimming and warm weather; Autumn (September to November) for striking foliage; Avoid sprin…
Access insights Moderate - Accessible via scenic drives and short walks, but requires caution on slippery rocks and near strong currents.
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities No facilities on-site. Nearest amenities are in Tellico Plains, approximately 6 miles away.

RV & Comfort Camping

Prefer hookups and hot showers? These campgrounds welcome RVs or offer electric loops for a cushier overnight near the water.

RV-friendly View details →

Hot Springs Arkansas Swimming Destinations

Arkansas

Few destinations in America offer the layered experience that Hot Springs, Arkansas delivers. Here, you can ease into geothermally heated mineral waters that have been drawing visitors for centuries, then drive a short…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal hot springs
  • Lake Ouachita swimming spots
  • Historic Bathhouse Row
Why we love it
Geothermal waters for therapeutic soakingHistoric bathhouses blending tradition and modernity
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Best season Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds; summer for swimming and beach fun; winter for quiet hot spring soaks.
Access insights Easy to moderate. Bathhouse Row is walkable; Lake Ouachita swimming spots require short drives and light hiking.
Cost Varies-see below
Facilities Bathhouse Row offers spa services; Lake Ouachita sites provide bathroom facilities and sandy beaches; nearby…
RV-friendly View details →

Valley View Hot Springs

Colorado

Tucked into the high-desert terrain of southern Colorado's San Luis Valley, Valley View Hot Springs is one of the state's most beloved geothermal escapes - a place where steaming pools spill down a hillside against a…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal waters with therapeutic properties
  • Striking views of Sangre de Cristo Mountains
  • Historical significance tied to Orient Mine
Why we love it
Year-round geothermal poolsEco-friendly management by Orient Land Trust
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Best season Spring and summer for vibrant wildflowers and hiking; autumn for striking foliage; winter for peaceful soaking amid sno…
Access insights Moderate. Accessible by a 7-mile gravel road; suitable for most vehicles but requires caution during winter months.
Cost Yes, see web site
Facilities Full facilities include showers, restrooms, picnic areas, and camping options. Reservations and fees are managed…
RV-friendly View details →

Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest

Arkansas

Tucked deep into the rugged hills of the Ozark National Forest in north-central Arkansas, Richland Creek and its tributary Falling Water Creek deliver something increasingly rare: wild, unspoiled swimming in a…

Trip highlights
  • Falling Water Falls with roadside access
  • Deep swimming hole at Richland Creek Campground
  • Hiking to Richland Falls and Twin Falls
Why we love it
Contrasting swimming experiences: a roadside waterfall and a secluded creekAccess to additional hidden waterfalls via hiking trails
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Best season The best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the water is warm enough for swimming,…
Access insights Moderate to difficult. Falling Water Falls is easily accessible, while Richland Creek Campground and the trail to further falls require rug…
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Richland Creek Campground offers picnic tables and vault toilets. The area is rustic and not suitable for RVs or large…
RV-friendly View details →

Mount Mitchell South Toe River Swimming Holes

North Carolina

Tucked into the folds of Pisgah National Forest in the North Carolina High Country, the South Toe River swimming holes offer one of the most rewarding natural escapes in the Southern Appalachians. Fed by snowmelt and…

Trip highlights
  • Clear water for swimming
  • Tubing-friendly gentle currents
  • Rich cultural history tied to Native American tribes
Why we love it
Historical ties to the Estatoe peopleLocated near Mount Mitchell, the tallest peak east of the Mississippi
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Best season Summer months (June to August) for swimming and tubing; autumn (September to October) for vibrant fall foliage and phot…
Access insights Easy to moderate; accessible by car with a short walk from parking areas. Suitable for families and casual hikers.
Cost Yes
Facilities Amenities include toilets, changing rooms, picnic tables, and nearby camping sites. Entry fees help maintain these…

More Weekend Pairings

Still browsing? These additional picks span forests, deserts, and coastlines—each with camping access within a short drive.

Weekend favorite View details →

Canton Creek Swimming Spots On The North Umpqua River

Oregon

Tucked inside the verdant folds of the Umpqua National Forest, the Canton Creek swimming spots offer one of southern Oregon's most rewarding and accessible natural escapes. Where Canton Creek meets Steamboat Creek and…

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 Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Canton Creek Campground offers picnic tables and clean toilets. Parking is available at the dead-end area near the…
Weekend favorite View details →

Bagby Hot Springs And Swimming Area

Oregon

Tucked deep within the ancient Douglas fir and western red cedar forests of Mount Hood National Forest, Bagby Hot Springs and Swimming Area is one of Oregon's most beloved and quietly magical natural retreats. This…

Trip highlights
  • Clear blue-green water
  • Short and scenic hike to access
  • Bathing suits optional
Why we love it
Optional bathing attire policyUnspoiled natural surroundings
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Best season Late spring through early fall, specifically May to September, for warm weather and accessible trails. Autumn offers st…
Access insights Easy to moderate; the 0.5-mile trail is well-marked but can be slippery during wet conditions.
Cost Forest pass required
Facilities No facilities available; visitors should bring their own supplies and plan accordingly. Nearby campgrounds provide…
Weekend favorite View details →

Big Creek Smoky Mountains Swimming Spots

North Carolina

Tucked into the remote northeastern corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Waterville, North Carolina, the Big Creek area is one of the park's lesser-known spots. Fed by cold, clear mountain streams…

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 Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities Picnic tables and toilets are available at the Big Creek Recreation Area. Camping is offered at Big Creek Campground…
Weekend favorite View details →

Big Marys Creek Slide

Virginia

Tucked into the folds of the Blue Ridge Mountains within the George Washington National Forest, Big Mary's Creek Slide is one of those places you half-expect to stumble upon in a dream. The creek has spent centuries…

Trip highlights
  • Natural water slide carved by Big Mary’s Creek
  • Clear water ideal for swimming
  • Surrounding forest teeming with wildlife
Why we love it
Natural rock slide formationSecluded location in the Blue Ridge Mountains
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Best season Spring through early autumn offers the best conditions, with June to September being ideal for swimming due to warm tem…
Access insights Moderate. Visitors must navigate gravel roads and a steep trail; suitable for most but challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities No facilities available on-site. Visitors should bring essentials like water, food, and waste bags. Developed camping…
Weekend favorite View details →

Black Hole

New York

Tucked into the Adirondack foothills of upstate New York, Black Hole is one of those quietly legendary spots that locals whisper about and visitors stumble upon with a sense of genuine discovery. Carved into Mill Creek…

Trip highlights
  • Clear waters perfect for swimming
  • Natural rock ledges for jumping
  • Picturesque woodland surroundings
Why we love it
Natural rock jumping platformsUnspoiled wilderness with no facilities
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Best season Summer months (June-August) for swimming and jumping. Fall (September-October) for striking foliage and photography opp…
Access insights Moderate. Short hike with uneven terrain and slippery rocks; suitable for most visitors with sturdy footwear.
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities No restrooms, picnic areas, or camping facilities. Visitors should bring their own supplies and plan for a day trip.
Weekend favorite View details →

Chautauqua Gorge Swimming Destinations

New York

Carved over millennia by the relentless current of Chautauqua Creek, Chautauqua Gorge is one of Western New York's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations. The gorge cuts a dramatic path through layered…

Trip highlights
  • Nudist-friendly Skinny Dip Falls
  • Clear, cool waters of Chautauqua Creek
  • Primitive camping in the gorge
Why we love it
Nudist-friendly tradition at Skinny Dip FallsGeological history revealed in layered rock formations
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Best season Summer for swimming; Fall for photography; Spring for lush greenery; Winter for scenic icy formations
Access insights Moderate; rugged trails with uneven terrain and steep inclines
Cost Listed as no fee; confirm current charges.
Facilities No facilities; entirely natural environment requiring self-sufficiency.
Know before you go
Verify campsite check-in times, quiet hours, and whether wood gathering is permitted. Having the details handy keeps your crew focused on swimming, not scrambling.
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.