Listing correction
Petit Jean State Park Swimming Holes: Swimming Prohibited
Little Rock, Conway, Morrilton, Russellville, AR
Do not swim here
Swimming is prohibited in the pool below Cedar Falls and in Cedar Creek, including the historic Blue Hole area. This correction concerns the natural creek locations previously recommended here, not the park's separate swimming pools. Check the park for pool opening, eligibility and fees.
We previously described this location as a swimming spot. That recommendation was incorrect. We have removed it from our swimming recommendations, directory results, and swimming maps. This page remains available to correct that information for anyone following an older link.
Do not treat older directions, photographs, or reports of people swimming as permission to enter the water. Check the managing authority's current notices and obey all posted access restrictions, including any park or trail closures.
Cedar Falls and Cedar Creek are not swimming destinations
The park's official trail regulations prohibit swimming below Cedar Falls and in Cedar Creek. That includes the natural-water Blue Hole recommendation previously associated with this listing. This page is retained as a correction, not as an invitation to swim.
A waterfall hike is a different activity
Use the official map for a permitted viewing trip. Cedar Falls Trail is classified as strenuous, with a two-mile round trip and a steep descent followed by an uphill return. Choose a route appropriate to your ability, carry water and check closures before starting.
The park's pools are separate
Petit Jean has separate swimming pools described in its official visitor information. Their operating dates, access eligibility and charges must be checked with the park. A park pool does not authorize swimming in Cedar Creek or below the falls.
Visitor questions
Can I swim below Cedar Falls?
No. Official Petit Jean trail regulations prohibit swimming in the pool at the bottom of Cedar Falls and in Cedar Creek.
Can I swim at the historic Blue Hole?
The Cedar Creek swimming prohibition applies. Do not treat older swimming reports as permission.
Does this mean the park's swimming pools are prohibited?
No. The correction concerns the natural creek locations. Check the park separately for pool operating dates, access and fees.
Is Cedar Falls an easy hike?
The official trail map classifies its two-mile round trip as strenuous. Plan for the steep uphill return and check current closures.
Official sources
Rules checked: