The Best Swimming Holes In Missouri

Let’s take a look at some of the best places to beat the heat in Missouri! 

Gunner Pool

You’ve probably never seen anything like the Gunner Pool dam before. The Civil Conservation Corps built the wall on North Sylamore Creek in the 1930s, using stones from the area. The dam almost seems natural at first appearance, or like something you might learn about in a fantasy book. 

Although the wall’s stair-stepped shape produces a striking visual impression, it also serves a practical purpose. The shallow pool below the dam is a nice place for youngsters to wade and play around, and the dam itself is climbable and entertaining.

The campgrounds 16 and 17 are close to the dam, which is a feature of the Gunner Pool Recreation Area. Near the dam is a cliff where people can leap. Cross the dam and proceed along the trail to the opposite side of the bluff to get there. 

Examine the waters where you will be leaping to ensure there are no rocks or limbs lying below. The water at this point may become slightly murky since the dam traps leaves and other debris.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins

Johnson’s Shut-In has natural slides, cascades, diving cliffs, and pools, making it more like a water park than a swimming hole. The east fork of the Black River sculpted out the rock formations in this area, and years of erosion have smoothed them off, making them ideal for slipping or sliding over. 

If you plan to visit on a weekend, get there early because it can get busy and the park rangers have a cap on the number of visitors they can admit each day. Camp at Johnson’s Shut-Ins to avoid the masses and secure entry to the park. 

You may want to stay for a while since there are numerous camping possibilities and the surroundings are stunning. There are some things you should be aware of before going down to the lake. First off, although being a blast, Johnson’s Shut-Ins can be hazardous, so you should avoid it if the water is moving too rapidly. 

However, you can relax in the sizable, tranquil pool that is located beneath the rock. If you have young children or don’t enjoy the sound of the shut-ins’ rushing water, here is a terrific place to unwind.

Steel Creek

Steel Creek Campground has gained popularity thanks to a local photographer, whose work essentially is locating the coolest outdoor sites in the Ozarks. We would be negligent if we didn’t include at least one spot on the Buffalo River. 

A National Park Service campground can be found at Steel Creek, which is off Highway 74 and about two miles east of Ponca, Arkansas. Camping rates start at $12 per night, and sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Yet, there is no usage charge if all you want to do is swim. Near Steel Creek, there are a number of swimming holes, including a few just in front of the tent camping area. Away from the camping area, there are swimming holes as well.

This location merits a visit in part because of the distinctive bluffs of the Buffalo River. Roark Bluff, which is quite stunning, goes along the campground. The swimming pools here are deep, so even later in the season, there should be nice water in addition to the stunning vistas. It never hurts to phone ahead and double-check the water level, though. 

After you’ve finished swimming, travel two miles to Steel Creek Overlook for some breathtaking views of Roark Bluff, which many people consider to be the most stunning bluff on the river. Other notable places include nearby Steel Creek. Within a short drive, you may reach Whitaker Point, Big Bluff, and Lost Valley.

Fugitive Beach

We couldn’t resist including Rolla’s Fugitive Beach even though it doesn’t really fit the standard description of a swimming hole. A large swimming area, a 65-foot waterslide, many diving cliffs, sand volleyball courts, and, beginning this summer, a second waterslide 50 feet long are all available at this converted rock quarry. 

You’ll think you’re on a nice vacation somewhere in Hawaii when you step onto Fugitive Beach rather than in the Ozarks, but that’s half of the pleasure. This is probably not the place for you if you’re looking to unwind for the day in a peaceful setting. 

Fugitive Beach advertises itself as a family-friendly destination; there are lifeguards on site, and you will undoubtedly see many children when there. However, there is an on-site bar and a tendency for the atmosphere to lean heavily toward the party scene. 

If you’re traveling with kids, remember that all visitors who swim past the buoyed area, use the jumps, or slide down the 65 feet must wear a life jacket. Children under the age of 10 must also. Bring a life jacket with you or rent one for $5. The cost to enter the park is $5 per person.

Grand Falls 

Grand Falls near Joplin, Missouri, is a breathtaking sight and a great place to beat the heat during the hottest summer days. It spans 163 feet across Shoal Creek. Water pours over a 12-foot chert rock ledge all year long, falling into a large pool below. 

The fact that Grand Falls is one of the nicest swimming places in 417 is merely a bonus; Shoal Creek has been dammed to continue providing water to the city of Joplin, so the water runs constantly. The simplicity of access is an additional benefit. Grand Falls is located inside the boundaries of Joplin, close to Highway 44.

There is a lot to do in Grand Falls once you arrive. If you have a group of individuals that have different views about how they like to unwind, this might be a terrific place to go. The falls are lovely and a fantastic place for a picnic even if you can’t swim. 

There is plenty of space to enjoy the sun on the sea while relaxing in an inner tube. There is a lot of opportunity for adventure, though, if you’re anything like me and are constantly seeking anything to climb on and leap off of.

Dabbs Greer

The small community of Anderson, which is only 34 miles south of Joplin, is home to Dabbs Greer Town Hole and Flat Rock, two must-see swimming holes. Dabbs Greer Town Hole is, appropriately, located in the center of the community. 

This charming location is right next to the post office. You could get the impression that you’ve walked straight into a Norman Rockwell painting as you make your way down the steep hillside to the swimming hole. Although there are tables and chairs, grills, and a public bathroom, the swimming area isn’t that large. 

Flat Rock

After exploring Dabbs Greer in its entirety, another swimming spot is just a 10-minute drive away. This adorable modest location, known by the locals as Flat Rock, is really gorgeous. Begin at the Indian Creek Campground entrance and go 2.9 miles on County Road NE7111 to get there. The location is incontestable. 

There is a rope swing that is clearly visible from the road and a large flat rock, hence the name. The swimming hole is popular for its rope swing and gorgeous scenery, however, it can get noisy and there is some offensive graffiti on the neighboring bluffs. 

While it’s unknown if alcohol is permitted, individuals are often spotted enjoying adult beverages here. You’re in for a tremendous treat if you’re fortunate enough to have the place to yourself.

Summary of the Best Swimming Holes In Missouri

The photo featured at the top of this post is © DWBMedias/Shutterstock.com