Let’s be real. An Arkansas summer can be seriously hot. The air gets thick, and the sun feels heavy. You need a plan to beat the heat. And the best plan, the absolute best plan, involves finding some great swimming holes in Arkansas. Forget the crowded pools. We are talking about hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear springs, and lazy rivers tucked away in the beautiful nature of The Natural State. This is your guide to the best, most refreshing spots to dive in and cool off this summer.
Why Arkansas is a Swimming Paradise
Arkansas is a special place for summer swimming because it offers a unique experience. You get the adventure of a hike through the woods. You hear the powerful roar of a waterfall before you even see it. You feel the shock of unbelievably cold, spring-fed water on a hot day. It is about floating in a river surrounded by towering bluffs and green forests.
These are the places where memories are made, and you do not have to look far to find them. The state is full of these natural treasures, just waiting for you to explore.
Your Map to the Great Swimming Holes in Arkansas
Here are some of the absolute best places to find your perfect summer swim.
Buffalo Point on the Buffalo National River
Any place along the Buffalo National River is a good place to splash the day away. But a truly great swimming hole is located at Buffalo Point.
- The Vibe: This is a classic river swimming spot. It is perfect for a full-day adventure. You can spend hours floating on a tube or just wading in the cool, clean water.
- Location & Details: You take Ark. 15 about 15 miles south of Yellville. You will find rugged mountain scenery everywhere you look. There are also nature trails and an overlook for amazing views.
- The Bonus: This spot is super convenient. There are cabins and a restaurant located very close to the swimming hole. This makes it a perfect road trip getaway. You don’t have to worry about packing a full picnic because you can get food right there.
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
This is one of the best-known and most loved great swimming holes in Arkansas. It is located just north of Mountain View.
- The Vibe: Blanchard Springs feels like a full-day destination. You get to swim in a beautiful area that is surrounded by picturesque bluffs. The water is incredibly clear and refreshing.
- Location & Details: To get there, you take Ark. 9 north from Mountain View for about seven miles. Then, you go west for six miles on Ark. 14. Finally, you take Forest Service Road 1110 for three miles.
- The Bonus: The fun does not stop at the water’s edge. You can also get tours of the amazing Blanchard Springs Caverns. Plus, there are outdoor theatre programs in the summer. You can easily make a whole weekend out of a visit here.
Gunner Pool
Also nearby Blanchard Springs is Gunner Pool. It is located northwest of Mountain View.
- The Vibe: If you want a spot that feels a bit more wild and secluded, Gunner Pool is for you. It is a clear mountain stream that is backed by high bluffs. It is incredibly peaceful.
- Location & Details: You take Ark. 87 from Mountain View for about 16 miles to the community of Fifty-Six. Then, you go three miles north on Forest Service Road 1102.
- The Bonus: This area is fantastic for fishing and hiking. It is the kind of place where you can truly get away from the crowds and just listen to the sounds of nature.
Kings River Falls Natural Area
This spot is a true adventure. The reward at the end is absolutely worth it.
- The Vibe: This is your destination for a beautiful waterfall swim. The highlight is the scenic Kings River Falls and the great swimming hole it creates.
- Location & Details: You start from the community of Boston on State Highway 16. Then, you follow a series of county dirt roads for a few miles until you reach the parking area. The hike to the falls is a 2-mile in-and-out trail. It is a beautiful walk that follows the river.
- The Bonus: The Kings River is unique because it flows from south to north, which is unusual for the Ozarks. The waterfall is stunning, and the pool beneath it is perfect for a celebratory swim after your hike.
Falling Water Falls
Sometimes you want an amazing swimming spot without a long, difficult hike. Falling Water Falls is the perfect answer.
- The Vibe: This is one of the easiest-to-access waterfall swimming holes you will ever find. The falls spill into a beautiful, large pool right by the road.
- Location & Details: At the junction of Arkansas 7 and 16 at Pelsor, you turn east on 16 to Ben Hur. Then, you go south about 1.5 miles to Forest Service Road 1205. You turn east on this road and follow it for a few miles. You will be following Falling Water Creek, and you will see the falls easily from the road to your right.
- The Bonus: The biggest appeal here is the convenience. You can literally pull over and be ready to swim in seconds. It is perfect for a spontaneous cool-down dip during a long drive or for anyone who cannot manage a long trail.
Dive Into Your Summer Adventure with Arkansas Swimming Holes
So, there you have it. When the summer heat in Arkansas starts to feel overwhelming, you now have a list of incredible places to go. These spots offer an experience where you can hike to a waterfall and explore a cavern. This year, do not just stay inside with the air conditioning. Get out there and discover great swimming holes in Arkansas.