Best Hidden Swimming Holes in the Ozarks & Northwest Arkansas
Hey travel besties! If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear creeks, hidden waterfalls, and that cool, spring-fed water Arkansas does best—you’re in the right place. This guide to the best swim spots in the Ozarks and Northwest Arkansas is your go-to list for chasing summer magic.
From family-friendly swimming holes to remote waterfall hikes, these are the most beautiful, refreshing places to splash, float, and soak up the natural charm of the Natural State.
1. Mountain Fork Creek at Natural Dam
Address: 2137 Natural Dam Rd, Natural Dam, AR
Just off Natural Dam Road sits one of Arkansas’s most photogenic swim spots. This 200-foot-wide rock formation splits Mountain Fork Creek into two perfect zones: a calm, clear pool above the dam and a shallow, wading-friendly area below.
It’s easy to access, family-friendly, and ideal for cooling off on a hot Ozark day. Bring a picnic, your camera, and plan to stay awhile.
Best for: Families, easy swimming, photos
Tip: Arrive early—it’s a local favorite on weekends.
2. Rosa-Hole at Blanchard Springs Campground (Fifty-Six, AR)
Location: Blanchard Springs Campground near Mirror Lake Waterfall
Nestled within the Blanchard Springs Campground area is a peaceful, hidden gem, the Rosa-hole. The swimming hole is shaded by tall trees and surrounded by the sounds of cascading water. Shaded and serene, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to spend all day lounging around.
Bonus: waterfall vibes are just a short stroll away. You’ll find this hidden gem just a short walk from Mirror Lake Waterfall, making it the perfect double-feature spot for a lazy afternoon swim followed by a waterfall stroll.
Best for: Shaded lounging, scenic beauty, waterfall access
Don’t Miss: Explore nearby Blanchard Springs Caverns while you’re there.
3. Gunner Pool on North Sylamore Cree
Location: Gunner Pool Recreation Area, near Mountain View, AR
Tucked deep in the Ozark National Forest, Gunner Pool is a bright-blue natural pool formed along North Sylamore Creek. The surrounding forest and nearby Sylamore Hiking Trail can make this a full weekend adventure of camping and swimming.
Best for: Camping, photography, hiking and swimming
Insider Tip: The water stays refreshingly cold, even in July.
4. Kings River Falls in Witter
Location: Kings River Falls Natural Area
This swimming hole is a local fave for a reason. Kings River Falls is a stunning swimming hole featuring a broad, gentle waterfall spilling into a deep, turquoise pool framed by bluff views and walking trails. Located in the Kings River Falls Natural Area, this spot is peak Arkansas beauty—and it’s just as good for fishing or hiking as it is for swimming.
The short hike in is beautiful and easy, and you can also cast a line or relax along the riverbank.
Best for: Easy access, photography, waterfall swimming
Nearby: Plan a stop in the charming town of Huntsville, AR for lunch.
5. Cedar Creek via Haw Creek Falls
Trailhead: Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area to Cedar Creek
Up for a bit of a trek? This one’s for the adventure lovers. The five-mile hike from Haw Creek Falls to Cedar Creek is one of the most rewarding trails in the Ozarks. You’ll pass scenic overlooks, lush forest, and multiple creek crossings before arriving at one of Arkansas’s most breathtaking waterfall swimming holes.
This beautiful swimming hole is well worth the hike, but be prepared—it involves an uphill climb on the return and several creek crossings, so some endurance is needed. Starting from Haw Creek Falls Campground, take AR Hwy 123 south for 3.3 miles, then turn right onto CR 5741/FR 1003 and drive 4.7 miles to the parking area where the Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT) crosses the road.
Follow the OHT west downhill, crossing small creeks and reaching Cedar Creek near the bottom. Around 1.1 miles in, you’ll find a stunning slough with an emerald pool. Continue to 1.4 miles to cross Cedar Creek itself, leading to one of Arkansas’ best waterfall swimming holes. Bring plenty of water, watch for snakes, and enjoy the peaceful hike and refreshing reward.
Bring plenty of water, good shoes, and a sense of adventure—this is the stuff Chasing Arkansas memories are made of.
Best for: Experienced hikers, secluded swimming, adventure seekers
Tip: Watch for slippery rocks and bring bug spray.
6. Big Spring in Cotter
Location: Big Spring Park, Cotter, AR
Located right on the banks of the White River, Big Spring Park feels like a small-town secret. It’s city-maintained, easy to access, and features a rope swing, picnic tables, and spring-fed water that’s as clear as glass.
Perfect for families, road-trippers, or anyone passing through northern Arkansas who wants a refreshing dip.
Best for: Families, road trip stops, picnics, easy access
7. Beaver Lake near Eureka Springs
Location: Beaver Lake, near Eureka Springs, AR
If you’re in Eureka Springs, you can’t skip Beaver Lake. With dozens of public access points, quiet coves, and sandy stretches, it’s perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and sunbathing.
Best for: Boating, swimming, couples’ day trips, photography
Local Tip: Find a quiet cove off Highway 62 and bring a float or kayak—you’ll feel like you’ve got your own private paradise.
8. Mulberry River
Access Points: Wolf Pen Campground, Turner Bend, Highway 23 & 215 crossings
The Mulberry River is one of the most beloved rivers in Arkansas for floating, kayaking, and swimming. Its clear, blue-green waters wind through rugged Ozark scenery that feels worlds away from city life.
Whether you’re floating in spring or taking a late-summer dip, this wild and scenic stream never disappoints.
Best for: Floating, swimming, camping along the river
Tip: Water levels are best in spring and early summer.
Let the Ozark Adventures Begin
From icy-cold springs to waterfall-fed pools, the Ozarks and Northwest Arkansas are full of natural swimming holes that capture the spirit of summer. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a solo nature retreat, or a weekend adventure with friends, these spots deliver peak Arkansas magic.
Need help planning your route or choosing which spot to hit first? Just holler—your Arkansas travel besties have your back.
Let’s keep chasing Arkansas together.
