Summer is quickly approaching, and we all know what that means: Hot weather and the desire to cool off. Sure, you could hit the local swimming pool and battle the crowds, screaming kids, and chlorinated water. Or…you could find a natural swimming hole near you and take a dip in the naturally cool and clear water that nature so generously offers us. There might still be crowds and rowdy kids at some of the more popular places, but those things won’t seem as bad while surrounded by nature.
Here are some of the best places to swim in North America. Add one to your summer to-do list if you enjoy taking a dip and cooling off!
Slide Rock State Park, Arizona
Slide Rock State Park is a super popular natural swimming hole you can find in Arizona. Natural chutes, slides, and deeper pools filled with cooling water make it a wonderful place to cool off in the hot summer months. Expect there to be crowds, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing this awesome spot!
Meadow Run Natural Waterslide, Pennsylvania
Found in the Keystone State’s Ohiopyle State Park, the Meadow Run Natural Waterslide seems like it was designed for people to slide down. The waterslide is nearly 100 feet long and ends in a pool of water carved into the sandstone. Just be careful after a heavy rain — there are no lifeguards on duty here, and caution should be exercised.
The Blue Hole, Texas
The aptly named Blue Hole in Wimberley, Texas, is the perfect place to have a picnic and dip your toes in the water. The Blue Hole has slowly sloping grass banks and is a great place to set sail in your inner tube. It’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day with some bonus September weekends thrown in. If you are feeling daring, take a turn on one of the two rope swings.
Boiling River, Montana
Boiling River is one of two designated swimming areas located within Yellowstone National Park. It’s a must-visit destination for any trips to Yellowstone that take place in the hot, summer months. Everyone will be able to find a water temperature they like at Boiling River, as hot spring water mixes with the cooler river water!
Book your stay at KOA when visiting these epic swimming holes!
