All "swimming holes" results in Springfield, Missouri, "Not my favorite state park so far. This North Fork spring is gorgeous. Missouri is not necessarily known for its beach scene, but the landlocked state has many sandy spots that are great for a swim and a day in the sun. When you arent in the water, play a game of volleyball, tic-tac-toe or corn hole. However, if youre just looking to swim, there is no usage fee. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. The gravel road to get to this site is a bit rough (hello, potholes! With lakes, rivers, ponds and streams galore, there is no shortage of Missouri swimming holes. I have not swum here, but I have lots of friends that say this is their favorite spot. There is usually a good amount of activity at the beach and the park in the summer months because it has many picnic areas, boat ramps, and green space that both locals and vacationers like to use. Located on the northeast corner of the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia a little slice of Ozarks paradise. Every time we walk, kids are wading and enjoying time with their families! On top of the waterfall is a large shallow rock shelf that runs back to the dam. There are many public beaches in the state parks throughout Missouri around the Lake of the Ozarks. Follow US-160 to meet our friendly, certified swim instructors at Diventures in Springfield today! If you're looking for somewhere to stay, you'll find inns and hotels a few miles from the state park, including the LakeHouse Hotel with a pool, waterslide, and free breakfast; and the Lodge of Four Seasons, a pet-friendly hotel with a spa, golf course, and suites. However, here are a few great locations provided by nature that are known for their swimming. St. Francois and Washington state parks are on the Big River. My favorite swimming hole is called 5-mile, near Baxter Springs, Kansas near the state line between Kansas and Oklahoma. Looking for more Missouri summer ideas? For more information, click HERE. Thank you! The Twin Lakes Recreation Area, lying in the southern outskirts of Columbia, offers doggy fun. Once youre behind the falls, the roar of the water is all you can hear, and you feel as if youre in your own little world, a thick sheet of rushing water separating you from everything else. A steep dirt road leads into the recreation area, so large campers and RVs might want to steer clear. This trail leads you from one of the most amazing waterfalls in the area (also a great swimming hole) to some natural shut-ins. Address: 28615 Visitor Center Road, Macon, Missouri. Saturday and Sunday anyone under the age of 18 are not permitted in the aquatic centers until open swim starts at noon. The public beach is a comfortable gathering spot for vacationers and locals because of the conveniences nearby and activities like the sand volleyball that gives those who are not swimming something to do. If you are new to Missouri and looking for an easy swimming spot while on vacation, Grand Glaize is a nice pick. In the morning, on your way home, make a side trip to Althea Springs for one more jolt from the North Fork. The stair-stepped design of the wall creates a striking visual effect, but its not just pretty to look at. Two hours and 55 minutes south of Springfield, near Sand Gap, Arkansas, Two and a half hours south of Springfield, near Aurora, Arkansas, Two hours northeast of Springfield, near Rolla, One hour and 15 minutes west of Springfield in Joplin, One hour and 30 minutes southwest of Springfield in Anderson, Only if theyre older and can hold their own in the river, Binoculars to spot wildlife along the creek, Four hours south of Springfield, near Perryville, Arkansas, Three hours and 20 minutes northeast of Springfield, near Black, Missouri, A pair of water shorts so you dont tear your swimsuit, Two hours and 20 minutes east of Springfield, near Eminence, A waterproof phone case so you can take videos of the shut-ins, One hour and 45 minutes east of Springfield near Houston, Missouri, One hour and 45 minutes east of Springfield, near West Plains. We begin our season in May, Memorial Weekend, 2023, for 7 days a week of family fun, a relaxing outing with friends, or just being a kid again. Have a look around the blog and make sure to contact me ASAP! Located in Lee, this waterpark offers visitors a day filled with water thrills and spills. The rock surrounding the water is more than 1.5 billion years old, creating the most exciting backdrop for one of Missouri's best swimming holes. Stepping onto the sandy shores of Fugitive Beach, youll feel more like youre on spring break somewhere in Florida than in the Ozarks, but thats part of the fun. Because of the clean and clear water in the lake, beginning divers often come here to practice their skills. Located in the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, this is known as one of the best places for a refreshing dip. The beach is a sandy public beach with many picnic areas. I asked my oldest what he remembered most about the memories we made over the summer, and finding local swimming holes was his favorite! You cant technically swim at Ritter Springs Park, but there is a creek to splash around in. The fenced-in area covers a large lawn, Paws Pond, and part of the beach and entire 16 acres of the Twin Lakes Fishing Lake, providing your pooch with . Here's a few ways we're working on our mission right now: Providing information, Building and maintaining local trails, Helping and teaching kids to fix their bikes, Cleaning up local parksto provide safe and clean places to enjoy nature. Several of the lakes have sand beaches. However, once you find it, you can easily spend a day here. Rocky Falls is the other shut-ins on our list, and although it isnt as big as Johnsons Shut-Ins, this swimming spot has its own charm. Take a look at the most notable dog-friendly beaches in Missouri. I spent a summer researching and visiting swimming holes in and around southwest Missouri, and because there are too many to include all of them here, Ive rounded up 13 of my favorites. We admit it. Okay, okay. Yep, you read that right. This is also a popular spot for jumping; however, the falls make it tricky to see whats under the water, so be careful if you decide to take the plunge. You dont want to get caught on the river without it. Art, gardens, and fountains are other features of the park, including a path featuring 24 sculptures. This is one of those places that, once you visit, youll want to return to time and time again. The buffalo is about an hr and half south and has great swimming and floating. The creek at busiek can be nice but often dries up. On average, Blue Spring pumps out 7 million gallons of water a day at a temperature that hovers around 40 degrees. There are some great swimming holes in Missouri for kids. Make sure you wear water shoes since you'll be climbing on rocks. These are some great local swimming holes in Missouri that you should check out this summer! If you are planning a more rustic vacation, there are many great campgrounds at Lake of the Ozarks that keep you close to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. Visitors also like this beach because of the diversity of recreation available, from swimming and boating to fishing and hiking on the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail, which is easily accessible from the Dewey Short Visitor Center. Run by the U.S. Forest Service, this quiet campground has 11 family camping units and offers easy access to several fantastic swimming holes. The actual beach is approximately a quarter-mile long, but this location is nice because of the access to the Elk River near Noel, Missouri. The fact that Dogs Bluff is right off of the highway does mean traffic can be noisy at times, but the water here is cool and clear, and a small picturesque bluff runs along the swimming hole. Falling Water Falls is on the left. Learn more about this, Dying to take a dip? Springfield, in southern Missouri, has great historical sites and natural areas, including caverns. Hours: Dawn to dusk, parking lot gate is locked at sundown. Finger Lakes, St. Joe, Trail of Tears, Thousand Hills, Wakonda and Watkins Mill also are state parks with smaller lakes for swimming. From Kearney Street, head north on Highway 13 for about three miles. When youre shoulder-deep in the lake, looking out over the water and into the green kaleidoscope of the Ouachita Forest, you wont have a care in the world. The park has several hundred campsites, hiking trails, and a marina with boat ramps, so you can stay active for several days on the water. You can swim or play on one of the large inflatable waterslides or join in a game of beach volleyball. Must-do list: Route 66 Drive-In ( 17231 Old 66 Blvd., Carthage, MO, 417-359-5959), Gay Parita (Ash Grove), Blue Whale ( 2600 U.S. Rte 66, Catoosa, OK), Golden Driller ( Tulsa Expo Center, 4145 E. 21st St., Tulsa, OK) Although most access the lake via the beach, if you head to the opposite end of the lake, there's a nice little swim platform. Located on the Piney River, Dogs Bluff is a nice little swimming hole that is easy to find and easy to access. Indulge your inner Tarzan, and give it a go. The big draw to King River Falls is, unsurprisingly, the falls, and when the water is up, there can be several shoots pouring over the rock ledge. Any shot hit left of this fairway will find itself swimming with the fishes. Our experienced and passionate teachers in Springfield are dedicated to help kids learn to swim in a fun and safe environment. Read more about this, 1514 Co Rd 253, Fredericktown, MO 63645, USA, Rocky Falls features that famous clear running water of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Thanks. You cant miss the spot. There were lots of kids on the water, but as with any float trip, youll run into some partiers. Campsites are first come, first served with camping fees starting at $12 a night. Hours: Dawn to dusk, parking lot gate is locked at sundown. Read more about this natural swimming hole in Missouri in our previous article. Each of these parks has a designated beach area. Deep pools, cascading waterfalls, rope swings and peaceful camping spots can be found along a 7-mile section of County Road 68 near Sand Gap, Arkansas. 417-847-2539. The marina has boat ramps and a store where you can pick up sunscreen and snacks for the day. Were pretty lucky here in 417-land. One of the most popular spots during the summer at Stockton Lake State Park in southwest Missouri is the Stockton Lake public beach. 2450 E Valley Water Mill Road. Constructed in the 1930s, the wall was built on North Sylamore Creek by the Civil Conservation Corps and was crafted from local stones. The beach park has all the amenities you need for the day, including cabanas, picnic, tables with grills, and concessions. Stockton State Park is home to. Thank you! Youll appreciate our classrooms and state-of-the art pool. Your Guide to the 13 Best Swimming Holes in the Ozarks, 2111 S. Eastgate Ave, Springfield MO 65809. The samples are analyzed at the Environmental Services Program laboratory in Jefferson City, and results are posted online. There is a great interpretive center where you can learn about the Trail of Tears and the native Cherokee Indians. Get ready for your trip to one of Missouri's State Parks. Unlike the smaller swimming areas at the campgrounds surrounding Table Rock Lake, Moonshine beach is spacious enough to make visitors forget they are actually on a lake and not at the ocean. I am a maternity, newborn and family photographer in Springfield MO. Springfield, Missouri Length: 34.9 mi Est. Another option is Columbia in the center part of the state. The camping spots are private and shady, and there is even one right by the swimming hole if youre lucky enough to grab it. Love Missouri? Last summer, when I floated the North Fork, my friends and I camped at and floated from Twin Bridges Canoe and Campground in West Plains. I also recommend coming early since there is a lot of traffic. Address: County Road NN-526, Winona, Missouri. Sit on the dam and let your legs dangle in the rushing water. One of the most exciting beaches in Missouri is Fugitive Beach in Rolla, Missouri not far from Springfield. To get there, start at the entrance to Indian Creek Campground and take County Road NE7111 for 2.9 miles. This is a great spot to relax if the rushing water of the shut-ins is not your speed or if you have little kids. Reservation Rules. Especially if you plan to enjoy a few adult beverages on the river. The dam, part of Gunner Pool Recreation Area, is located near campsites 16 and 17. In the mornings, I would grab a cup of coffee and enjoy it on the deck overlooking the river. Where to Stay: If you are looking for a more pampered vacation, there are many resorts in Missouri, from the quiet Ozark Mountains to the tourist center of Branson. However, if youre like me and your inner child is always looking for something to climb on and jump off of, theres plenty of adventure to be had. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. The water flows continuously because Shoal Creek has been dammed to provide water to the city of Joplinthe fact that Grand Falls is one of the coolest swimming holes in 417-land is just a bonus. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Spanning 163 feet across Shoal Creek, Grand Falls in Joplin is a sight to behold and an exceptional place to cool off during the hottest days of summer. Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. Long Branch Lake has three boat ramps around the lake for water access. Another bonus is how easy it is to reach. Located northeast of Springfield, the park features a 1.5-mile hiking trail around the lake, accessible fishing piers and boardwalk, an outdoor classroom pavilion, water- and stream-side learning stations and offices for the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks. The swimming spot at Rocky Falls is located at Rocky Creek in the Stegall Mountain Natural Area. Physical Address. 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