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.

277
Swim spots with camping nearby
0
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 26 featured trips
  • Virginia 25 featured trips
  • California 18 featured trips
  • Tennessee 17 featured trips
  • West Virginia 15 featured trips
  • Florida 15 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.

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 →

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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
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.
Drive-in ease View details →

Hot Creek

California

<h2>About Hot Creek Geothermal Area</h2><p>Tucked into the high desert landscape of the Eastern Sierra, Hot Creek is one of California's most otherworldly natural destinations. Steam rises from turquoise and jade-colore…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal hot springs
  • Scenic Eastern Sierra views
  • Wildlife observation
Why we love it
Geothermal activity creating vibrant poolsProximity to Mammoth Mountain and Yosemite National Park
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Summer (June–September) for accessibility and warm weather; Fall for vibrant autumn colors; Winter for dramatic steam a…
Access insights Moderate; unpaved roads require cautious driving. Limited facilities mean visitors should prepare for a rustic experience.
Cost Free access
Facilities Primitive toilets and changing rooms available. No food or water facilities on-site; visitors should bring their own su…
Drive-in ease View details →

Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County

West Virginia

<h2>About the Elk River Swimming Holes in Webster County</h2><p>Tucked deep into the forested ridges of Webster County, West Virginia, the Elk River swimming holes represent the kind of discovery that rewards the patien…

Trip highlights
  • Broad, deep swimming pools
  • Rock jumping opportunities
  • Stunning Appalachian scenery
Why we love it
Geological formations of sandstone and shaleCrystal-clear water perfect for swimming
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Late spring to early fall (May to September) for warm weather, clear water, and vibrant surroundings. Autumn offers stu…
Access insights Moderate. Gravel roads and short hikes required; sturdy footwear recommended.
Cost No
Facilities Elk River Lodge offers camping, food, and bathrooms. Primitive camping available in Cranberry Recreation Area.
Drive-in ease View details →

Medano Creek

Colorado

<h2>About Medano Creek</h2><p>Few places in the American West deliver the kind of sensory surprise that Medano Creek does. Imagine peeling off your shoes and wading into a cool, clear stream — then looking up to find yo…

Trip highlights
  • Seasonal creek with surge flow phenomenon
  • Located at the base of Great Sand Dunes
  • Ideal for swimming, tubing, and skimboarding
Why we love it
Rare surge flow phenomenonLocated at the tallest sand dunes in North America
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Late May to early June for peak water flow; summer for warm weather and family-friendly wading conditions.
Access insights Easy to moderate; creek is accessible from the dunes parking area, but walking on sand can be strenuous for some.
Cost Unknown
Facilities Basic facilities available at the dunes parking area. Nearby Piñon Flats Campground offers camping options.

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 →

Hot Springs Arkansas Swimming Destinations

Arkansas

<h2>About Hot Springs, Arkansas: Where Thermal Waters Meet Mountain Lakes</h2><p>Few destinations in America offer the layered experience that Hot Springs, Arkansas delivers. Here, you can ease into geothermally heated…

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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
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 restaurant…
Trail overnight View details →

Columbus And Edinburg Swimming Spots

Indiana

<h2>About Swimming in Columbus and Edinburg, Indiana</h2><p>Tucked into the rolling countryside of south-central Indiana, the swimming spots around Columbus and Edinburg offer something rare in the Midwest: genuine vari…

Trip highlights
  • Anderson Falls waterfall swimming
  • Flat Rock River swimming at Owens Bend
  • Driftwood River camping and swimming at Heflen Park
Why we love it
Distinct waterfall at Anderson FallsUrban swimming under Third Street Bridge
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Late spring to early fall (May–September) is ideal for swimming due to warm temperatures and steady water levels. Summe…
Access insights Easy to moderate access; minimal hiking required for most locations. Anderson Falls may require crossing streams for trail access.
Cost No
Facilities Some parks include parking areas, boat launches, and camping facilities. Nearby urban locations offer access to restaur…
Trail overnight View details →

Big South Fork Swimming Holes And Recreation Spots

Tennessee

<h2>About Big South Fork Swimming Holes and Recreation Spots</h2><p>Tucked into the rugged sandstone gorges of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in northeastern Tennessee, these unofficial swimming h…

Trip highlights
  • Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole with historical ties
  • Burnt Mill Bridge offering swimming and canoeing
  • Crisp, clear water ideal for summer visits
Why we love it
Historic connection to Rugby’s utopian communityWitches Cave mystery near Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Late spring through summer (May-August) is ideal for warm weather and vibrant greenery. Autumn offers stunning foliage,…
Access insights Burnt Mill Bridge is easily accessible by car, while Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole requires a moderate 0.4-mile hike over rutted trails. Suitab…
Cost No
Facilities Burnt Mill Bridge includes picnic tables and toilets; the Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole offers parking at Laurel Dale Cemet…
Trail overnight View details →

Bloomington Area Quarries

Illinois

<h2>About the Bloomington Area Quarries</h2><p>Long before they became one of central Illinois's most intriguing natural escapes, the quarries scattered around Bloomington were working industrial sites, carved by hand a…

Trip highlights
  • Historical limestone quarries turned swimming holes
  • Crystal-clear waters with varying depths
  • Stunning limestone cliffs and geological formations
Why we love it
Historical significance as former limestone quarriesExceptional water clarity due to mineral-rich limestone
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Summer is ideal for swimming with warm water temperatures (June to August), while late spring (May) and early fall (Sep…
Access insights Moderate difficulty; trails are accessible but require caution due to uneven terrain and slippery surfaces near the water.
Cost Free access
Facilities Minimal facilities available; visitors should bring their own essentials such as water, snacks, and sunscreen. Nearby c…

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 →

Hart Springs

Florida

<h2>About Hart Springs</h2><p>Tucked into the green heart of North Central Florida, Hart Springs offers one of the state's most rewarding freshwater spring experiences. The water here doesn't just look inviting — it pul…

Trip highlights
  • Crystal-clear freshwater pools
  • Snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities
  • Camping with full hook-ups
Why we love it
Constant 72°F water temperaturePart of Florida’s extensive aquifer system
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Spring through early summer (March to June) offers pleasant weather, lush surroundings, and optimal water conditions. F…
Access insights Easy access with well-maintained paths and signage. Suitable for families and all skill levels.
Cost Yes, $4.00 per person (2010)
Facilities Includes picnic tables, shaded areas, clean restrooms, changing facilities, and camping sites with full hook-ups for RV…
RV-friendly View details →

Virginia Creeper Trail Swimming Spots

Virginia

<h2>About Swimming Along the Virginia Creeper Trail</h2><p>Winding through the heart of the Blue Ridge Highlands in southwest Virginia, the Virginia Creeper Trail traces the old railway bed alongside one of the region's…

Trip highlights
  • Crystal-clear waters of Whitetop Laurel Creek
  • Close proximity to the historic Virginia Creeper Trail
  • Picturesque forest surroundings
Why we love it
Historic trail converted from an old railwayRefreshing creek with varied swimming depths
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Late spring through early fall is ideal for swimming, with June to August offering the warmest weather. For photography…
Access insights Moderate: Trails are well-marked but may include uneven terrain. Water access can require careful footing on rocks.
Cost No
Facilities Vault toilets are available at intervals along the Virginia Creeper Trail. Nearby Beartree Campground offers additional…
RV-friendly View details →

Bulls Island S. P.

New Jersey

<h2>About Bulls Island State Park</h2><p>Tucked along the western edge of New Jersey where the Delaware River marks the boundary between two states, Bulls Island State Park is a ribbon of wild, green land that feels lik…

Trip highlights
  • Refreshing Delaware River swimming
  • Historic canal trail and towpath
  • Diverse wildlife and scenic views
Why we love it
Part of the historic Delaware & Raritan Canal systemBlend of recreational activities and historical significance
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Spring (April-May) for wildflowers and birdwatching; Summer (June-August) for swimming and family activities; Fall (Sep…
Access insights Easy to moderate. Accessible by car with well-maintained trails and facilities. River swimming requires basic swimming skills due to occasi…
Cost No entrance fee
Facilities The park offers restrooms, picnic areas, and a campground with reservable spots. It also has a boat launch and access t…
RV-friendly View details →

Valley View Hot Springs

Colorado

<h2>About Valley View Hot Springs</h2><p>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…

Trip highlights
  • Geothermal waters with therapeutic properties
  • Stunning 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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Spring and summer for vibrant wildflowers and hiking; autumn for stunning 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 throug…

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 →

Columbus And Edinburg Swimming Spots

Illinois

<h2>About Swimming in Columbus and Edinburg, Illinois</h2><p>Tucked into the quiet heartland of central Illinois, the towns of Columbus and Edinburg sit alongside a network of rivers and creeks that have drawn swimmers,…

Trip highlights
  • Anderson Falls waterfall and swimming pool
  • Flat Rock River access at Owens Bend Park
  • Camping facilities at Heflen Park
Why we love it
Year-round waterfall at Anderson FallsUrban swimming options in downtown Columbus
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season The summer months of June through August offer the warmest weather and most comfortable swimming conditions. Spring and…
Access insights Easy to moderate. Some locations, such as Anderson Falls, require a short walk and creek crossing, while others like Noblitt Park and Third…
Cost No
Facilities Facilities vary by site. Heflen Park offers camping, whereas Noblitt Park and Owens Bend Park have basic amenities. And…
Weekend favorite View details →

North Umpqua River Swimming Holes

Oregon

<h2>About the North Umpqua River Swimming Holes</h2><p>Tucked into a forested canyon along the North Umpqua Highway between Roseburg and Glide, the swimming holes of the North Umpqua River are the kind of places you stu…

Trip highlights
  • Crystal-clear water
  • Thrilling rock chute at Narrows Park
  • Rich biodiversity
Why we love it
Rock chute tubing at Narrows ParkEmerald-green waters
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Summer for swimming; Spring and Fall for scenic beauty; Winter for photography and solitude.
Access insights Easy to moderate access; Narrows Park requires careful navigation due to lack of signage.
Cost Free access
Facilities Picnic tables and toilets available; nearby camping sites at Whistlers Bend and Cavitt Creek Falls.
Weekend favorite View details →

Goose Creek S. P.

North Carolina

<h2>About Goose Creek State Park Swimming Beach</h2><p>Tucked along the broad, tannin-kissed waters of the Pamlico River in eastern North Carolina, Goose Creek State Park is one of the coastal plain's most rewarding out…

Trip highlights
  • Refreshing swimming in the Pamlico River
  • Diverse ecosystems with rich wildlife
  • Rustic camping opportunities
Why we love it
Combination of tidal marshes and river swimmingRich biodiversity with opportunities to spot unique wildlife
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Best season Summer offers warm water temperatures and vibrant activity, while spring and fall provide mild weather and fewer crowds…
Access insights Easy to Moderate. The swimming area is accessible, but trails leading to other parts of the park may have uneven terrain.
Cost No
Facilities Basic amenities include composting toilets and picnic tables. The camping area is primitive but offers a quiet, natural…
Weekend 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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
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…
Weekend 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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
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.
Weekend 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
Make it a combo
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
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…
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.