For some old-fashioned fun, be sure to check out Fugitive Beach. And if youve ever swum in a spring-fed river on a 100-degree day in the middle of August, you know just how lucky we are. 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. There is an abundance of wildlife to see at the park, as well as recreation like boating, fishing, and hiking. Public Beach #1 in the Lake of the Ozarks is one of a few public beaches that are easily accessible. Here are 10 of the best swimming holes in Missouri. I asked my oldest what he remembered most about the memories we made over the summer, and finding local swimming holes was his favorite! Springfield, Missouri Length: 34.9 mi Est. Other activities include kayaking and exploring the many hiking trails through the prairies in the state park. Rocky Falls at Rocky Creek National Park Service Be sure to learn more about this great waterfall swimming hole, and then plan your next visit. The gravel road to get to this site is a bit rough (hello, potholes! I have not swum here, but I have lots of friends that say this is their favorite spot. 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. Towering pine and oak trees surround the lake, creating an idyllic location that feels far, far away from the everyday worries of life. This little spot on the James River has shady trees and picnic tables and is within the Springfield city limits. Looking for more Missouri summer ideas? Our family went scouting and created a list of our favorite ones! In the mornings, I would grab a cup of coffee and enjoy it on the deck overlooking the river. Swimming in the lakes, streams and rivers in state parks is at your own risk. Sit on the dam and let your legs dangle in the rushing water. There are some amazing local swimming holes in Missouri. One of the most popular spots during the summer at Stockton Lake State Park in southwest Missouri is the Stockton Lake public beach. There is ample lodging at Shady Beach, with a nearby campground, cabins, and vacation homes available for rent. Your Instagram game. If you can swing it, visit on a weekday. The North Fork is close enough that you could make it a day trip, but wheres the fun in that? Here in the Ozarks, youre never far from capturing that feeling. One of the states premier swimming holes is at Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park, where the Black River has carved out chutes and pools in the ancient rock of the namesake shut-ins area. Once you reach Grand Falls, theres plenty to do. The beach is a sandy public beach with many picnic areas. If you are new to Missouri and looking for an easy swimming spot while on vacation, Grand Glaize is a nice pick. Water intersects this fairway about 130 yards from the green. One of the best and most popular beaches in Missouri is at Mark Twain Lake in Mark Twain State Park near the village of Florida, which is the birthplace of the famous American author. Just 34 miles south of Joplin is the small town of Anderson, which has two swimming holes that are not to be missed: Dabbs Greer Town Hole and Flat Rock. A modern campground in the park is a nice option for overnight stays. As a result, the Ozarks has some of the most abundant and clearest sources of groundwater in the country. Moonshine Beach Recreation Area is just north of the dam. One of the most exciting beaches in Missouri is Fugitive Beach in Rolla, Missouri not far from Springfield. Want to sign up for snorkeling classes in Springfield? Any shot hit left of this fairway will find itself swimming with the fishes. Monett, MO, USA. The whole team is passionate about sharing their love of the water and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. The water park is open seven days a week until August 12, when its open only on weekends through Labor Day weekend. Hello! From Battlefield Road, take a right onto South Farm Road 187. They also have walking trails and a playground if the kids want to break up their day! 36.9289502, -93.9277071 Arenas . The beach has great swimming areas and plenty of picnic tables for a full day near the water. The samples are analyzed at the Environmental Services Program laboratory in Jefferson City, and results are posted online. If you dont mind a little walk, you can walk down to their creek near their pond and splash around. St. Francois and Washington state parks are on the Big River. 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. Check out our latest feature and choose your own 417-land summer adventure with our quiz, powered by Springfield Brewing Company. Mainstream lodging is easy to find in places like St. Louis, where you can stay and do activities in the city, then make day trips to the state parks for swimming. Outdoors. The swimming spot at Rocky Falls is located at Rocky Creek in the Stegall Mountain Natural Area. Good day swimming spot. From there, its a little over a half-mile walk to the swimming hole. When youre planning your trip to Fugitive Beach, its best to prepare as if you were actually going to spend a day at the beach. The creek at busiek can be nice but often dries up. Were pretty lucky here in 417-land. Several of the lakes have sand beaches. Moonshine beach at Table Rock Lake in southwest Missouri is a popular swimming beach near Branson and about 25 minutes from the Rockaway Beach resort community. Located in the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, this is known as one of the best places for a refreshing dip. There are campsites in the park. This is a great spot for kids to splash around and hunt for crawdads. Find the trailhead across the creek from the parking lot. You dont want to get caught on the river without it. If you want a relaxing day in a serene locale, this probably isnt the spot for you. It is shallow, which makes it perfect for all ages. Saturday and Sunday anyone under the age of 18 are not permitted in the aquatic centers until open swim starts at noon. 15 Free Swimming Holes near Branson, Missouri - Free Arenas. The shut-in pool at the base of the waterfall provides awesome views of the 40-foot falls - the largest in the state. Website. When you arent in the water, play a game of volleyball, tic-tac-toe or corn hole. 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. Our adult lessons fit the needs of all swimmers. 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. Every time we walk, kids are wading and enjoying time with their families! Bring all of your beach gear for a day of fun under the sun. Youll want to watch for McKee Bridge around mile 11, which can be dangerous when the water is high. First of all, although Johnsons Shut-Ins is a blast, it can be dangerous, and if the water is moving too fast, youll want to steer clear. For thousands of years, long before it had a name, the Springfield aquifer flowed beneath the Ozarks hills, carving out cracks and crevices in the soft dolomite and limestone rock, eventually allowing the water to make its way to the surface. Scuba diving lessons for kids are a fun and safe way for kids to deepen their love of the water. Or just relax on a floating deck chair. Our S Campbell Ave swimming school has a variety of swim lessons, snorkeling programs, and scuba certifications for people near Springfield, Battlefield, Nixa, Rogersville, Ozark, and Republic. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. 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. Address: County Road NN-526, Winona, Missouri. From Springfield, Missouri. Just dont wear yourself out too much; theres plenty more fun to be had. continuing from the directions for the Shut Ins above, continue east on RT 21/29 to Lesterville. Steel Creek is located about two miles east of Ponca, Arkansas, off of Highway 74 and is a National Park Service campground. Theres a big flat rockhence the nameand a rope swing thats easily visible from the road. 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. 1. 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. intersection of Highway 125 and State Highway JJ in Rogersville is a public access area on the Finley River that is a popular swimming spot. To get there, cross the dam and follow the trail to the other side of the bluff. The beach is located in Lake of the Ozarks State Park, just off Highway 134. Read more about this lake with the, State Park Road, State Pk Rd, Union Township, MO 63448, USA, Don't you feel cooler already just looking at a photo of this cool, clear lake? Join us on social media and stay up to date on swimming lessons and scuba diving at our Springfield location! So if you love relaxing, or you love fast-paced thrills, you will love Summit Waves. 3. The dam, part of Gunner Pool Recreation Area, is located near campsites 16 and 17. The beach park has all the amenities you need for the day, including cabanas, picnic, tables with grills, and concessions. There are many public beaches in the state parks throughout Missouri around the Lake of the Ozarks. And for even more swimming hole fun, check out these seven Missouri swimming holes that will make your summer epic! Located on the northeast corner of the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia a little slice of Ozarks paradise. Scuba is for everyone and Diventures is the premier place for all things scuba. Theres a lot to experience in the area, and to make sure you have time to enjoy it all, I recommend making a weekend of it. Fax: (417)-833-3334 . 11,800-square-foot swim and scuba facility, 25-yard heated pool ranging in depth from 3.5 to 14 feet, Pool and surrounding air temperature steady 88-90, Large retail space for top-brand swim and scuba gear, Multiple classrooms with audiovisual capabilities. Dont jump from here. MISSOURI SWIMMING HOLES ; . Our state-of-the-art facility is located across the interstate from Cherokee Middle School. The restaurant was housed in a building that felt like a cross between a cabin and a lodge, and when we walked in for dinner, there was live music and a nice selection of craft beer on tap. The campsite falls on the rustic side, as far as these things gotheres no running waterbut the serene location more than makes up for it. The beach features towering bluffs, multiple slides, a volleyball court, Fugitive Beach Bar & Grill, cliff jumps, sandy beaches, and bright, bright blue water all in Rolla, Missouri. Or swing by Piney River Brewing, which is less than 20 minutes from Dogs Bluff, and pick up a six-pack to enjoy while you dip your feet in the water. Mark Twain Lake beach allows public swimming and has a changing facility, so you can mix in some walking or biking before or after playing in the water. Stay for the weekend in the lodge or rough it at one of the campsites. Phone: (417) 833-9962. This is a great natural swimming hole in Missouri, so grab your swimsuit and check it out! I would argue that this is the best swimming hole in Missouri. Posted by 2 years ago. The lake is popular with swimmers as well as boaters. We've recorded your comments. Peckers Beach, 3100 S Farm Rd 193, Springfield, MO 65809, USA, Rocky Falls, Winona Township, MO 65588, USA, Rivers Edge Inn Resort, 16392 Tom Akers Rd, Eminence, MO 65466, USA, River's Edge has great swimming and also some pretty sweet, With natural waterslides, this is one of the best, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, 148 Taum Sauk Trail, Middle Brook, MO 63656, USA, Eleven Point is known for great swimming and also amazing, Eleven Point River, Moore Township, MO, USA, Castor River Shut-Ins, Fredericktown, MO 63645, USA. We cant wait to visit again this summer! The Gunner Pool dam is probably unlike anything youve seen before. This beach is great, especially for families, because it is sandy enough to build castles and play, and the water is calm. In addition to gorgeous views, the swimming holes here are deep, so there should be good water even late in the season. Take a peek at the beauty that awaits on this, This is the only swimming hole in Missouri featuring pink granite shut-ins. 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Missouri, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in St. Louis, MO, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kansas City, MO, 14 Top-Rated Trout Fishing Lakes & Rivers in Missouri, Missouri in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 9 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Lake of the Ozarks, MO, 10 Top-Rated Resorts at Lake of the Ozarks, 10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Columbia, MO, 10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Springfield, MO, Where to Stay in St. Louis: Best Areas & Hotels, 10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Branson, MO, 12 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Branson, MO, 14 Top-Rated Resorts in Branson, Missouri, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, lodging is easy to find in places like St. Louis. With fantastic local and regional dive sites just a short distance away, freshwater lake diving and meeting new divers are some of the perks of our Springfield location. The water here is great for swimming. One of the most unique beaches in Missouri is Rocky Falls Beach near Winona in southeast Missouri. Located in the southwest Ozark hills, Roaring River State Park is one of three state parks stocked with rainbow trout. Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. There's a lot of ways to do this. Full disclosure here, folks, I got lostreally loston my way to this Arkansas spot. When we pulled in on Friday night, it became clear we made the right choice. 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. Encompassing 1.5 million acres of beautiful public land in 29 counties in Missouri, Mark Twain National Forest maintains a healthy, working forest and restores Missouri's natural communities. If youre still hankering for adventure, there are several other neat spots close by. Thanks. Seasons & Fees. The falls are on the right if youre facing south. The trailhead for the North Sylamore hiking trail is located within the campground and leads to 15 miles of gorgeous hiking along the creek through the OzarkSt. Reviews on Swimming Holes in Springfield, MO - Bennett Spring State Park, Waterfall Trail, Roaring River State Park, Port of Kimberling Marina & Resort, Welk Resorts - Branson Love Missouri? Battle of Island Mound State Historic Site, Harry S Truman Birthplace State Historic Site, Teaching American History Black Wall Street: Men and Women Entrepreneurship, Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site. 10h 56m This is a new paved trail that follows the Old Railway tracks through the great Ozarks. The park was built in an area once used for coal mining, so there are rolling hills great for ATV trekking and a unique scenic landscape.If you want to stay for several days and take advantage of the 70 miles of dirt off-road trails and other water activities, you can book a campsite on the property. There were many pretty areas of the trail but it was super disappointing to see the west gate resort buildings literally 100 feet or less from the trail and hearing people on patios and seeing the resort grass. I didn't grow up around here so the secret swimming spots are still a secret to me :) Where's your favorite spot? Let's get your incredible day on my calendar, and let's create memories that you'll remember for a lifetime. It is such a gorgeous location and one of my favorite places to pull out a camera to capture our family splashing around. Due to the deep water of the quarry, guests must sign a waiver agreeing to the beach rules upon entering. For details and directions, check out Tim Ernsts Arkansas Waterfalls Guidebook. 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. Indulge your inner Tarzan, and give it a go. There are picnic areas throughout the park if you just plan to stay for the day. On top of the waterfall is a large shallow rock shelf that runs back to the dam. kayak 3. canoe 3. hike 2. camp 1. cave 1. All rights reserved. The park is in northeast Missouri and has a great public recreation area including a sizable public beach on the north side of the park. 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. The small gravel beach is not the wide sandy experience that you will have at some state park beaches, but your swim at Rocky Falls will feel like a refreshing summer dip in a small natural swimming pool. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources samples water quality at all designated swimming beaches in the state park system on a weekly basis during the recreational season. Cross the footbridge and follow the trail until you reach the rope swing. Your Guide to the 13 Best Swimming Holes in the Ozarks, 2111 S. Eastgate Ave, Springfield MO 65809. Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons, Facebook/ Friends of Eleven Point River (Lori L. Eggert). Add Arena Share. Residence Inn Springfield features an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Youll find this quaint spot across from the post office. You can book a campsite or stay in a cabin or vacation rental near the lake. Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Wappapello, Long Branch, Pomme de Terre, Stockton, Harry S Truman and Mark Twain state parks all have large lakes perfect for swimming, boating and fishing. Stay informed by signing up for our monthly Park Board Newsletter. You can see the spot from the road, and from there its just a short climb down an embankment to the water. This is your takeout point where buses will be waiting to take you back to the Twin Bridges campground. Roark Bluff runs down along the campground, and its a real stunner. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Address: 16875 County Road 5285, Rolla, Missouri, Official site: https://www.fugitive-beach.com. Located in the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, this is known as one of the best places for a refreshing dip. 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. Boating is popular, and there are a number of hiking trails to explore. 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. Did you know you can also paddle at Finger Lakes State Park? Out of the way spots most likely abound, but are unknown to this writer. The Travel Channel's "Top Secret Swimming Holes," which says it's "on a mission to uncover the world's most secluded, sexy and extreme natural places to cool off," makes a stop in Missouri on Sunday. Embed. Mon-Fri: 9 am-8 pm Sat: 9 am-6 pm Sun: noon-5 pm, 5225 S Campbell AveSpringfield, MO 65810Get directions, Phone: (417) 883-5151Fax: (417) 882-9966[emailprotected]. Have you ever thought about having a water-themed photography session? You can swim or play on one of the large inflatable waterslides or join in a game of beach volleyball. 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. Learn more about this, Dying to take a dip? Thank you! In fact, Johnsons Shut-Ins is more like a water park than a swimming hole, complete with natural slides, waterfalls, jumping cliffs and pools. Swimming holes around Springfield area? The consistent breeze on Stockton Lake makes it one of the most popular places for sailing in the state. If you want to drive a ways, there are some really clean and beautiful springs a couple hrs east of town, alley springs and blue springs are two that come to mind. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. One of our favorite things to do in the summer is going to a swimming hole to splash around, fish, look for animals, get a tan, and spend time together!