With approximately 10,000 miles of streams and rivers, over 600,000 acres of lakes, and other natural features, Arkansas should have plenty of places for you to enjoy. Browse a few swimming holes while you’re out exploring, whether you’re looking for dazzling treasures, taking in the state and national parks, or exploring The Folk Capital of America.
Collins Creek
Courtesy of a restoration pipe that was built following the construction of the Greers Ferry dam, this freezing cold stream emerges from Greers Ferry Lake. The creek includes cascading falls and plenty of spots to unwind and cool down after a day of fishing or trekking. It is more of a wading creek than a swimming area.
The sole natural trout stream in Arkansas is Collins Creek, which has both brown and rainbow trout. Only visitors who are 16 and under are permitted to fish, and capture and release is the only authorized method. You can access the waterfalls from either the top or bottom, and there is a parking space nearby.
Little Missouri River
Before it reaches the Narrows Dam, which forms Lake Greeson, the Little Missouri River travels through the Ouachita Mountains, starting in western Arkansas southeast of Mena. The Crater of Diamonds State Park, which is technically an extinct volcano in Arkansas and the only open-air diamond mine on the planet, is passed by the river beneath the dam.
The 1/4-mile Little Missouri Falls walk is regarded as a simple trek because of its short length.
Many visitors like splashing around and swimming in the Little Missouri River’s chilly waters while admiring the splendor of the Little Missouri Falls.
One of thirteen outstanding swimming places in Arkansas was dubbed the Little Missouri River! The spring and autumn seasons are ideal for seeing the falls. In fact, the falls are extra lovely because of the spring rains.
The recreation area along the Little Missouri River is a favorite spot. It is free to utilize this recreation facility, which has picnic tables and restrooms. The picturesque hiking trail and flowing waterfalls are popular attractions in this area.
Walnut Creek
The Ouachita National Forest’s center contains this swimming hole. The Charlton Recreation Area also referred to as Camp Charlton, offers a variety of attractions, including swimming, hiking, and camping with basic or full hookups.
The swimming spot is a portion of Walnut Creek, a chilly mountain spring-fed spring. It is given that taking a quick rinse in the stream will instantly cool you off if you are overheated on a very hot day.
Because of the temperature of the water, it’s best to save this swimming location for the climax of summer weather! When you’re done cooling off, locals say it’s the perfect spot to skip stones!
Lake Sylvia
The Lake Sylvia Recreation Area is located in the northeastern portion of the Ouachita National Forest, tucked amid picturesque pine and oak-covered slopes. Only 38 miles west of Little Rock, the tranquil 18-acre lake is well known for its swimming and fishing options.
Visitors have the option of hiking, taking a leisurely nature walk, backpacking along the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, trail running, or gravel grinding on the system of trails. A swimming beach, restrooms, and picnic areas are also present.
Twin Falls of Richland
Two beautiful waterfalls can be reached by hiking to Richland Falls and Twin Falls in the Richland Creek Wilderness Area. At the Richland Creek Campground, the climb to Richland Falls and Twin Falls of Richland Creek commences. Follow the right road leading to the day-use area from the campground’s gate.
You will reach Richland Falls shortly. The falls, which extend across the entire creek, is around eight feet tall. Here, you can take a rest or even go swimming if you want to. Upstream till you come back to Big Devil’s Fork Creek. Here, take a left and proceed upstream along the creek. The fork is only a short walk from Twin Falls.
The highlight of the hike is Twin Falls, which is in my opinion one of Arkansas’ most beautiful waterfalls. Spend a lot of time here hanging out and snapping photos.
Lake Ponder
Because of how closely connected Crowley’s Ridge State Park is to daily life in Northwest Arkansas, it’s simple for residents to overlook the park’s unique geology and ecology. The ridge is essentially an island creation of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers’ historic courses.
With its mixture of mild slopes and spectacular rises, rising around 200 feet above the plain, it runs for over 200 miles from Missouri to Arkansas. An old-fashioned bathing place is Lake Ponder. Relax on the beach, take a dip in the spring-fed water, rent a pedal boat or kayak, or play some beach volleyball.
The lifeguards are on duty in the summer. Walcott Lake in the park is primarily for fishing. It’s modest, but you catch trophy-sized largemouth bass and catfish. Launch a boat or make a cast from the barrier-free pier.
Summary of the Best Swimming Holes in Arkansas
Swimming Hole | Location | |
---|---|---|
1 | Collins Creek | near Herber Springs |
2 | Little Missouri River | Ouachita Mountains |
3 | Walnut Creek | Ouachita National Forest |
4 | Lake Sylvia | northeastern portion of the Ouachita National Forest |
5 | Twin Falls of Richland | Richland Creek Campground |
6 | Crowley’s Ridge State Park | Lake Ponder |
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