Find Secret Swimming Holes
Search out wild swim spots nationwide — tucked-away lakes, quiet river pools, cool springs, and waterfall holes worth the hike.
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851 swimming holes · 50 states · 8 water types
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Your guide to wild swimming in the U.S.
Nothing beats wading into cold, clear water surrounded by forest, canyon, or open sky — the kind of swim municipal pools only hint at. We list 851 vetted places in 50 states, from lazy river bends and spring pools to lake coves and waterfall basins.
Each listing gathers fees, water type, nearby towns, and how to get there. Treat it as your first pass at planning, then double-check access, safety, and rules with local land managers before you head out.
Swimming trip gear & products
The outdoor gear and travel essentials we recommend for planning a natural swimming trip — compared side by side so you can pick the right one fast.
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Featured swimming holes
Hand-picked places from coast to coast to inspire your next outing.
Chena Hot Springs
Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks, Alaska — a 106°F natural hot springs lake open year-round at the end of Chena Hot Springs Road. Day passes, hours, and winter aurora soaking tips.
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Big Lake North S.r.s.
Big Lake North State Recreation Site near Wasilla, Alaska — swimming, boating, and camping on one of Southcentral Alaska’s busiest summer lakes. Fees, facilities, and directions.
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Abbie Creek Park
Abbie Creek Park is a free U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day-use area on the Chattahoochee River near Columbia and Dothan, Alabama. River swimming with no lifeguards — watch currents and boat traffic.
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Chewacla S. P.
Chewacla State Park in Auburn, Alabama has a lake beach, waterfall, and trails for swimming and hiking. Alabama State Parks day-use fees apply (about $5 ages 12–61; $3 youth/seniors as of 2026) — confirm alapark.com before you go.
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Chickasabogue Park
Chickasabogue Park at 760 Aldock Rd, Eight Mile / Mobile, AL — free Mobile County park with Chickasaw Creek beach access, 12+ miles of trails, splash pad, picnic areas, and camping. Day-use ~7 a.m.–7 p.m.; beach renovations possible in 2026.
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Guntersville Region Swimming Spots
Guntersville Region Swimming Spots sits in Alabama along Varies - See Below. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities.
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St Stephens Park
St Stephens Park lies in Alabama, where Quarry moves through a wooded corridor. Stephens Park offers one of the state's most distinctive .
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Benton
Benton is a River swimming destination near Little Rock in Arkansas. The setting stays informal and low-key.
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Planning tips and regional roundups from our editorial team.
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