Cool Off with the Best US Swimming Holes

Summer is just around the corner and with rising temperatures it’s time to find some places to cool off. Unfortunately not everyone lives close to an ocean, so some of us have to find alternative swimming holes. Grab your swimsuit, pack a towel and don’t forget your friends and family and let’s get wet! We found the best swimming holes around the country so you can cool down in style.

The Homestead Caldera, UT

Locals refer to this as the Crater and it’s an amazing swimming hole that is literally a hole. In Midway, Utah sits a naturally heated spring inside a huge hole in the ground that was created by mineral deposits. Now it’s a commercial swimming hole that is open all-year-round. Scuba divers use this as a training place, but everyone can use it to cool down in the hot summer months. The 10,000-year-old crater is easily the most unique swimming hole on this list.

Bridal Veil Falls, GA

Come to Georgia for a 45 ft waterfall and a really cool place to chill out. People slide down the granite rock face in a natural waterslide that will leave a huge smile on your face. Locals love this place and it’s free, so swim on my friends. This place is wonderful and located in a State park.

Barton Springs, TX

Located just outside of downtown Austin, TX; Barton Springs has long been the cooling off spot for young University of Texas students. That is one of the draws to this swimming hole, the abnormally high amount of young, attractive college students. Only costing $7, Barton Springs is a great way to cool off in the heart of Austin. If you’re lucky, the waterfall will be flowing from the 1,000 ft wide limestone cliff.

White Rock Park, IN

Come for the cliff diving and stay for the chill vibes. With steep cliffs surrounding the water, there are plenty of places to jump. You’ll find the swimming hole is packed on the weekends but there is still plenty of space to spread out. Check out the floating barges where you can catch some rays and slip right into the water.

Enfield Falls, NY

A really cool collection of waterfalls located just outside of Ithaca, New York will take your breath away. These natural beauties are easily accessible from Ithaca and only a few hour drive from New York City. You’ll find some amazing hikes circle around the falls and give numerous views to take in. The water is chilly and great at cooling you off after a hard hike.

Queen’s Bath, HI

Located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii and known to have healing powers, Queen’s Bath is naturally formed pocket of lava rock that creates a swimmable pool. Visitors have to hike over lava fields and tough terrain to reach the beautiful pool but it’s well worth the trouble. Once there you’ll find a remote pool on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, warmed by the sun and oh so inviting.

Sliding Rock, NC

Located outside of Asheville North Carolina, is Sliding Rock, a natural water slide that keeps tourists and locals coming back every summer. The 60-foot water slide is the king of all swimming holes and a perfect way to cool out while having some fun.