15 Best Swimming Holes in Arkansas
Imagine a place where the summer sun warms your skin, and the cool, clear waters of natural springs, serene lakes, and rushing rivers invite you to dive in. Welcome to Arkansas, the “Natural State,” a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers alike. Beyond its stunning mountain ranges and dense forests, Arkansas boasts an incredible array of swimming holes, each offering a unique escape from the everyday.
From family-friendly lakes with sandy beaches to secluded, waterfall-fed pools deep within the wilderness, you’ll discover a refreshing adventure around every bend. To truly experience the magic, plan your visit during the late spring or summer months, typically May through September, when the water temperatures are perfect for a swim. Pack your swimsuit, a good pair of hiking shoes, and an adventurous spirit, because we’re about to dive into the 15 best swimming holes Arkansas has to offer, complete with practical tips and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your unforgettable aquatic journey. Get ready to make a splash!
💰 Travel Cost Overview
Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
---|---|---|---|
Accommodation per night | $60 – $90 (basic motels, campgrounds) | $120 – $200 (standard hotels, B&Bs) | $250 – $400+ (resorts, boutique hotels) |
Food & Dining per day | $30 – $50 (picnics, fast food, casual diners) | $60 – $100 (local restaurants, cafes) | $120 – $200+ (fine dining, specialty meals) |
Transportation per day | $40 – $60 (car rental economy, gas) | $60 – $80 (mid-size car rental, gas) | $90 – $120+ (SUV rental, premium gas, parking) |
Activities & Attractions per day | $5 – $15 (park entry fees, free spots) | $15 – $30 (some tours, higher park fees) | $40 – $70+ (guided tours, specific equipment rentals) |
Total Daily Budget | $135 – $205 | $255 – $410 | $500 – $790+ |
Weekly Budget Estimates | $945 – $1435 | $1785 – $2870 | $3500 – $5530+ |
Lake Bennett, Woody Hollow State Park, AR

Nestled within the serene landscapes of Petit Jean State Park, Lake Bennett offers a quintessential Arkansas swimming experience. This picturesque lake, surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of nature, provides a calm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a leisurely swim. You can expect a designated swimming area with a sandy beach, making it ideal for families with young children who want to splash and play in shallow waters.
Beyond swimming, the park offers excellent opportunities for paddle boating, fishing, and exploring numerous hiking trails that wind through the stunning terrain. The historic Mather Lodge, a beautiful stone and timber structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, adds a touch of rustic charm and provides a wonderful spot for a meal or a comfortable stay. This spot is perfect for families seeking a safe and enjoyable day out, couples looking for a peaceful retreat, or solo travelers wanting to connect with nature without venturing too far off the beaten path. The tranquil setting and range of activities make it a beloved destination.
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Caddo Bend, DeGray Lake, AR

Caddo Bend, located on the vast and beautiful DeGray Lake, is a true aquatic playground that beckons with its crystal-clear waters and expansive shoreline. DeGray Lake is renowned for its exceptional water quality, making Caddo Bend an incredibly inviting spot for swimming, snorkeling, and simply lounging by the water’s edge. You’ll find well-maintained day-use areas, often with picnic tables and restrooms, providing a comfortable setup for your day of relaxation.
Beyond the designated swimming areas, the lake offers endless possibilities for boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, with rental options often available nearby. The surrounding DeGray Lake Resort State Park also boasts a challenging golf course, hiking trails, and even an arboretum. Caddo Bend is an excellent choice for families due to its safe swimming conditions and amenities, groups of friends looking for water sports adventures, and couples seeking a scenic and active getaway. Its popularity is well-deserved, offering both tranquility and opportunities for lively recreation.
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Blanchard Springs, Mountain View, AR.

Blanchard Springs, nestled in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests near Mountain View, is far more than just a swimming hole; it’s a natural wonder. Here, an underground river emerges from the earth, creating a stunning, spring-fed swimming area that remains refreshingly cool even on the hottest summer days. The water is incredibly clear, allowing you to see the vibrant aquatic life below.
What makes this spot truly unique is its proximity to the Blanchard Springs Caverns, one of the most spectacular living caves in the country. You can combine a thrilling cave tour with a invigorating dip in the springs, making for an unforgettable day. The area also features picturesque hiking trails, picnic spots, and a trout stream for fishing. This destination is perfect for adventurous families, curious solo travelers, and couples who appreciate both natural beauty and geological marvels. The cool water and surrounding forest provide a perfect escape from the summer heat, offering a truly unique swimming experience.
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Lake Sylvia, Perryville, AR.

Lake Sylvia, located near Perryville, offers a tranquil and idyllic setting for a refreshing swim, making it a beloved spot for those seeking peace and quiet away from the bustling crowds. This smaller, picturesque lake is part of the Ouachita National Forest and is known for its serene atmosphere and pristine waters. The designated swimming area features a sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and easy entry into the cool, clear lake.
Surrounding the lake are well-maintained hiking trails that invite you to explore the lush forest, and there are also opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating like kayaking or canoeing. Lake Sylvia is particularly cherished for its camping facilities, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in nature. This spot is an excellent choice for families looking for a calm and safe swimming environment, couples desiring a romantic and secluded getaway, and solo travelers seeking solitude and a deep connection with the outdoors.
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Lake Wedington, Fayetteville, AR.

Just a short drive from the vibrant college town of Fayetteville, Lake Wedington Recreation Area provides a wonderfully accessible and family-friendly swimming experience. This charming lake, nestled in the Ozark National Forest, offers clear, calm waters perfect for a leisurely dip, paddle boarding, or kayaking. The designated swimming area is well-maintained, often featuring a sandy shoreline and picnic spots, making it a convenient choice for a day trip.
Beyond swimming, Lake Wedington is a hub for outdoor activities, with extensive hiking and mountain biking trails that weave through the surrounding forest, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. There are also opportunities for fishing, and a boat launch for non-motorized vessels. This recreation area is ideal for families looking for an easy-to-reach swimming spot with amenities, students seeking a quick escape from campus, and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy combining swimming with hiking or biking. Its proximity to Fayetteville makes it a popular local favorite.
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Crowley’s Ridge, Jonesboro, AR.

Crowley’s Ridge State Park, near Jonesboro, offers a unique swimming experience that stands out geologically in Arkansas. Unlike many of the state’s mountain-fed lakes, Crowley’s Ridge is a distinctive geological formation, an elevated landform rising above the flat delta lands. The park features a spring-fed lake with a designated swimming beach, providing a cool and refreshing respite in a truly unique natural setting. The water here is clear and inviting, perfect for a relaxing swim.
Beyond the swimming hole, the park boasts excellent hiking trails that showcase the area’s unique flora and fauna, including rare plant species found only on the ridge. There’s also opportunities for fishing and paddle boating. The park’s rustic stone and timber structures, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, add a historical charm to your visit. This spot is excellent for families seeking a safe swimming area, nature lovers interested in unique ecosystems, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape in a less mountainous part of the state.
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Buffalo Point, Yellville, AK.

Buffalo Point, located on the iconic Buffalo National River near Yellville, is arguably one of Arkansas’s most beloved swimming destinations. As the nation’s first national river, the Buffalo offers pristine, free-flowing waters that are unparalleled in their beauty and clarity. At Buffalo Point, you’ll find a wide, gravelly bank leading into deep, inviting pools, perfect for swimming, wading, and simply soaking in the natural splendor.
The river’s gentle current in this section makes it suitable for families, while the dramatic bluffs and forested hillsides provide a breathtaking backdrop. Beyond swimming, Buffalo Point is a prime launch point for canoeing and kayaking adventures further downriver, and offers access to scenic hiking trails, including the popular Indian Rockhouse Trail. This spot is a must-visit for families, groups of friends, and solo adventurers who crave an authentic river experience, surrounded by the raw, untamed beauty of the Ozarks.
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Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs, AK.

Greers Ferry Lake, sprawling across north-central Arkansas near Heber Springs, is a massive reservoir known for its incredibly clear, deep waters and extensive shoreline. This immense lake offers countless opportunities for swimming, boating, and all manner of water sports, with numerous public access points and recreation areas. The designated swimming beaches, often featuring sandy or pebble shores, provide safe and inviting spots to cool off.
You’ll find amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and sometimes playgrounds, making it very family-friendly. The lake’s sheer size means you can always find a secluded cove for a private swim if you explore a bit. Greers Ferry is also famous for its excellent fishing, particularly for striped bass. This destination is perfect for large families and groups looking for diverse water activities, avid anglers, and anyone who loves the expansive beauty of a large, clear lake with plenty of room to roam and relax.
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Kings River Falls, Witter, AR.

Kings River Falls, tucked away in the Ozark National Forest near Witter, is a captivating natural swimming hole that requires a short, scenic hike to reach, rewarding you with a truly magical experience. The centerpiece is a beautiful cascading waterfall that tumbles into a series of clear, emerald-green pools, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. The water here is cool and invigorating, fed by the Kings River, which is known for its pristine quality.
The journey to the falls is part of the adventure, winding through a picturesque forest alongside the river. Once there, you can relax on the smooth rocks, explore the different pools, or simply admire the natural beauty. This spot is ideal for adventurous solo travelers, couples seeking a romantic and secluded natural escape, and families with older children who enjoy a moderate hike rewarded by a spectacular swimming spot. It’s a true testament to Arkansas’s hidden natural wonders.
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Tanyard Creek, Bella Vista, AR.

Tanyard Creek, located in the charming community of Bella Vista, offers an easily accessible and delightful swimming spot centered around a picturesque waterfall. This family-friendly destination features paved and gravel trails that lead you directly to the base of the falls, where clear, cool water collects in a shallow pool perfect for wading and splashing. The ease of access makes it an excellent choice for a quick cool-off or a leisurely afternoon outing.
Surrounding the falls, you’ll find scenic walking paths, benches for relaxation, and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. The entire experience is designed to be pleasant and convenient, making it a favorite among locals. Tanyard Creek is perfect for families with young children due to its shallow water and easy access, elderly visitors or those with limited mobility, and anyone looking for a beautiful natural setting without a strenuous hike. It’s a true urban oasis.
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White River, Fayetteville, AR.

The White River, particularly sections near Fayetteville, offers a different kind of swimming experience: a vast, flowing waterway known for its excellent fishing, scenic beauty, and opportunities for floating. While not a traditional “swimming hole” with a designated beach, various access points along the river allow you to wade into its cool, clear waters, especially in calmer sections. The water here is generally colder than lakes, as it’s fed by mountain springs, making it incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day.
Many visitors enjoy floating downstream on tubes or kayaks, stopping to swim in deeper pools along the way. The river is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, providing a serene backdrop for your aquatic adventure. This is an ideal spot for experienced swimmers, groups looking for a floating adventure, and anglers who want to combine fishing with a refreshing dip. It embodies the wild, untamed spirit of Arkansas’s rivers.
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Little Missouri Falls, Glenwood, AR.

Little Missouri Falls, nestled deep within the Ouachita National Forest near Glenwood, is a secluded and breathtaking natural swimming hole that truly feels like a hidden gem. Reaching it requires navigating some forest roads and a short, relatively easy hike, but the reward is immense. The Little Missouri River cascades over a series of ledges, creating a beautiful set of miniature waterfalls and clear, cool pools perfect for swimming and wading.
The natural rock formations provide ideal spots for sunbathing and picnicking, surrounded by the tranquility of the dense forest. This spot offers a more rustic and immersive outdoor experience, away from the crowds of more developed areas. Little Missouri Falls is perfect for adventurous solo travelers, couples seeking a romantic and secluded escape, and families with older children who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind a bit of a journey to find it. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and reconnect with nature.
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Mulberry River, AR.

The Mulberry River, flowing through the Ozark National Forest, is renowned for its scenic beauty and offers a diverse range of aquatic experiences, from thrilling whitewater rafting in spring to serene swimming holes in summer. While specific “swimming holes” vary depending on water levels and access points, many calm stretches and deep pools along the river become inviting spots for a refreshing dip during the warmer months. You’ll often find smooth rock banks or small gravel bars where you can relax and enter the clear, cool water.
The river is surrounded by lush, forested bluffs, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheater. Popular activities include fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the flowing water. The Mulberry River is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more rustic, wild swimming experience, including adventurous families, groups of friends seeking a natural playground, and solo travelers looking for solitude in nature.
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Lake Ouachita, AR.

Lake Ouachita, often hailed as one of the cleanest lakes in America, is a vast, sparkling gem nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of central Arkansas. Its exceptionally clear, deep waters and numerous islands make it an unparalleled destination for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. With over 700 miles of shoreline, you’ll find countless coves and beaches perfect for a swim, whether you prefer a designated recreation area with amenities or a secluded spot reached by boat.
The lake is surrounded by the dense, natural beauty of the Ouachita National Forest, offering a truly immersive outdoor experience. Beyond swimming, Lake Ouachita is a paradise for boating, fishing (especially for bass and crappie), and camping on its many islands. This incredible lake is perfect for large families and groups seeking extensive recreational opportunities, avid water sports enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the pristine beauty of a truly clean and expansive body of water.
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Twin Falls of Richland, Ozark Forest, AR.

Twin Falls of Richland, located deep within the remote and rugged Ozark National Forest, is an absolute masterpiece of nature, offering one of the most stunning and challenging swimming hole experiences in Arkansas. Reaching these twin waterfalls requires a strenuous, unmarked hike through dense wilderness, making it a true adventure for the dedicated explorer. The reward is immense: two magnificent waterfalls cascading side-by-side into a deep, clear pool, surrounded by towering bluffs and lush greenery.
The water is refreshingly cold, fed by the Richland Creek, and the isolation of the location ensures an incredibly peaceful and awe-inspiring experience. This is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to put in the effort, it’s an unforgettable journey. Twin Falls of Richland is exclusively for experienced hikers and adventurous solo travelers or small groups who are comfortable with challenging terrain and self-reliance in the wilderness. It’s the ultimate reward for the intrepid explorer.
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Plan Your Visit
From the family-friendly shores of Lake Bennett to the rugged, rewarding beauty of Twin Falls of Richland, Arkansas truly lives up to its “Natural State” moniker, offering an unparalleled array of swimming holes for every type of adventurer. You’ve discovered clear lakes perfect for leisurely dips, spring-fed pools that invigorate the senses, and pristine rivers inviting you to float and explore. Each destination provides a unique slice of Arkansas’s stunning natural landscapes, promising not just a refreshing swim but also opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and deep relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a budget-conscious road trip or a luxurious outdoor escape, the detailed cost information provided will empower you to plan your perfect aquatic journey. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to be enchanted by the natural wonders awaiting you. Dive into the heart of Arkansas – your next unforgettable water adventure is calling!