9 Most Popular Natural Swimming Holes Across the U.S.

Barton Springs Pool

Austin's Barton Springs Pool is a crystal-clear, 3-acre pool regulated at 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for R&R seekers seeking a cool city hideaway.

Santa Rosa Blue Hole

Drivers from Route 66 in New Mexico visit this natural swimming hole for its deep, clear blue waters. Explore underwater caverns, leap in from rocks, or just dip your toes.

Queen's Bath

Why was this swimming hole for royals? Princeville on Kauai's North Shore's gorgeous seas and isolated setting make it a retreat. The lava-formed tidal lagoon is great for snorkeling and turtle sightings.

Paradise Forks

Despite its difficulty, this free rock climbing spot has beautiful canyon views and a swimming hole. Scale the basaltic cliffs near Paradise Forks and swim to cool down.

The Homestead Crater

The Homestead Crater, the only U.S. warm swimming hole deep enough for diving, is a must-see for locals. Bring or rent diving gear and dive into mineral-rich waters.

Boiling River

Natural oasis Boiling River at Yellowstone National Park's North Entrance has mild thermal waters. A great stop before Mammoth Hot Springs, this underappreciated location has several hydrothermal phenomena.

Warren Falls

Warren Falls is now Vermont's premier swimming location after being a hidden getaway. Beautiful Mad River swimming spots have azure seas.

Madison Blue Spring

This famous spot lets you swim across a limestone basin with rustic wood ladders and feel like you've traveled back in time. This tranquil state park swimming hole is fewer than 100 feet wide but has clean waters.

Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock is a 60-foot natural waterslide for hot summer days. Landing in a 50- to 60-degree pool will chill you down after sliding down the rocky waterfall. The location is accessible via U.S.