Swimming Holes in WI

Discover 7 amazing natural swimming destinations across WI. From pristine lakes to refreshing rivers, find your perfect swimming spot.

7
Swimming Holes
5
Types
2
Free Access
5
Fee Required
7 locations found
Falls
Fee

AMNICON FALLS S. P.

DULUTH (MN)

Explore Amnicon Falls State Park in WI. Discover waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and trails on the Black River near Superior and Duluth. Plan your visit.

Black River
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River
Free

EAU CLAIRE RIVER

EAU CLAIRE

Plan a visit to the unofficial Eau Claire River swimming hole near Chippewa Falls, WI. Find directions, safety tips, and details on swimming and wading.

Eau Claire River
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Quarry
Fee

JAYCEE QUARRY PARK

SHEBOYGAN

Visit Jaycee Quarry Park in Sheboygan, WI for swimming in a quarry lake. Find directions, park facilities, safety tips, and seasonal advice.

Quarry
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Lakes/Ponds
Fee

Kettle Moraine State Forest Swimming Spots

WHITEWATER

Guide to swimming beaches at Whitewater, Spring, and Ottawa Lakes in Kettle Moraine State Forest, WI. Find directions, amenities, and safety tips.

Varies - see below
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Lakes/Ponds
Fee

Madison Wisconsin Swimming Spots

MADISON

Find swimming spots near Madison, WI. Guide to Salmo Pond, Beckman Lake, and Lake Ripley with directions, fees, and safety tips for a great day out.

Varies - see below
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Bay
Fee

PEBBLE BEACH

GREEN BAY

Visit Pebble Beach, a public bay on Lake Michigan near Sister Bay. Find directions, swimming info, and tips for this shoreline with limited facilities.

Lake Michigan
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Quarry
Free

REDGRANITEQUARRY

Redgranite

Guide to swimming at Redgranite Quarry in Wisconsin. Find directions, safety tips, and practical info for visiting this popular quarry lake.

Redgranite Lake
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Safety & Responsibility

  • Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, and hazards change quickly.
  • Follow posted signs and local regulations. Do not trespass.
  • Never jump or dive without checking depth and underwater obstacles.
  • Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for non‑swimmers.
  • Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.

Overview

WI features 7 natural swimming spots across 5 water types. Expect varying access and conditions by season; arrive early on weekends, pack out trash, and always verify current rules and water levels before you go.

Explore More Swimming Adventures

Ready to discover more? Check out swimming holes in other states or browse our complete directory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many swimming holes are in WI?
Our directory lists 7 natural swimming destinations in WI, spanning 4 water types: Quarrys (2), Lakes/Ponds (2), Falls (1), Rivers (1). Of these, 2 (29%) are free to access and 5 require an entry fee or parking pass.
What types of swimming spots does WI have?
WI's 7 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, lakes and reservoirs, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Black River, Eau Claire River, Quarry, Varies - see below, Lake Michigan.
Which swimming holes in WI are free?
2 of the 7 swimming holes in WI (29%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 5 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.
Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in WI?
Swimming destinations in WI are clustered around DULUTH (MN), SUPERIOR (WI), EAU CLAIRE, CHIPPEWA FALLS. 4 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 3 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.
When is the best time to visit swimming holes in WI?
Based on the conditions reported across WI's listed sites, spring tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.
Are swimming holes in WI safe for families and children?
Safety varies significantly by location. 4 officially managed sites in WI typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.
Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in WI?
Most swimming holes in WI do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 5 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.