There’s something about summer sunshine and an invigorating plunge into cooling waters that make you feel like you’ve discovered a remote oasis that’s all your own. It can be a gurgling creek, a tranquil lake or a frothy waterfall that draws you in, leaving you refreshed and reconnected with nature. From Florida to Oregon, these natural swimming areas are sure to inspire your next camping trip.
1. Fillmore Glen Pool
Where: Fillmore Glen State Park, New York
Five cascading waterfalls and a stream-fed swimming pool make Fillmore Glen State Park one of the best natural swimming destinations in western New York. This underrated state park offers dense, forested seclusion, and the long, narrow gorge provides challenging hiking trails and unique geological terrain. Relax on the stream shore, or swim with family and friends, protected by on-duty lifeguards.
2. Balmorhea Pool
Where: Balmorhea State Park, Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas, and that rings true for Balmorhea State Park’s renowned natural swimming hole, complete with a diving board. The 1.3 acre-pool reaches 25 feet deep and holds over 3 million gallons of water, creating the perfect place to cool off in West Texas. Balmorhea State Park’s star attraction is a spring-fed pool that is filled daily by San Solomon Springs. In peak summer months, water temperatures can rise to 75 degrees, ideal for care-free swimming. Knowing visitors bring snorkeling gear to catch glimpses of fish and wildlife below the surface.
Photo Credit: Texas State Parks
3. Ferry Springs Swimming Hole
Where: Deschutes River State Recreation Area, Oregon
For the warmest natural swimming waters in Oregon, make the trip to Deschutes River State Recreation Area. Explore the river by boat, but save time for secret swimming hole exploration. Bring your hiking boots to tackle the Deschutes River Ferry Springs Trail, and you’ll be rewarded with refreshing swimming, serene rafting and cliff jumping surrounded by incredible views. Ask the rangers to make sure you’re headed in the right direction. Check the conditions and swim with caution.
4. Krul Swimming Area
Where: Krul Campground, Florida
Krul Recreation Area is a fantastic destination for swimming, and exploring. The large man-made lake is recharged from springs on the north end and surrounded by the largest remaining longleaf pine ecosystem in the world. Visitors will love picnicking and hiking the accessible boardwalk trail with swimming docks, gristmill, and suspension bridge over to Sweetwater Creek.
5. Toledo Bend Reservoir
Where: North Toledo Bend State Park, Louisiana
Louisiana locals know this summer destination well; the Toledo Bend Reservoir offers ample opportunities for lake swimming and watersports. Measuring in at 185,000 acres, Toledo Bend is the largest man-made body of water in Louisiana. Its position on the Sabine River between Texas and Louisiana makes it a go-to lake in the South. Jump in the lake for a swim, try your hand at fishing or explore the vast waters by paddleboat. Best of all, after your day in the natural swimming area, there’s a full size swimming pool with restrooms back at the campground.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.