After a year of hibernating indoors, summer 2021 might just be the most anticipated season ever. RV sales are through the roof, road trips are being planned, and people are looking for ways to embark on adventures across the country. Whether you're seeking a tropical getaway or a desert escape, at some point you'll want to refresh with a cool dip in the water. When looking for locales to visit this summer, a paradise with a swimming hole is ideal, especially with hot temperatures on the horizon.
From stunning waterfalls to flowing lazy rivers, there are so many incredible natural features to enjoy at swimming holes. These fresh bodies of water usually take the form of rivers, creeks, streams, and natural springs where people can swim or even rest on a pool float. They exist all over the U.S., from Hawaii to Wyoming to Florida, so you can have your choice of preferences depending on seasonal climate and where you want to travel.
However, for as beautiful and tranquil as these swimming holes look, it's important to be cautious when visiting because these are natural areas; that means that there may be rocks under the surface of the water, so diving is not advised. Generally speaking, there are no lifeguards in these areas, so you should also be mindful of water safety at all times, especially when you're visiting with children. Once safety is considered, these are wonderful spots to spend a day, splashing, and bathing in the sun.
Though there are some popular swimming holes absent from this list because summer is not an ideal time to visit them (such as Havasu Falls, Chena Hot Springs, Homestead Crater, and so forth), you'll find that this list of a dozen swimming holes gives you plenty of options to choose from in order to plan the ultimate summer escape.
