swimming holes near springfield mo

Located in Rolla, this former quarry offers up a ton of swimming fun for the whole family. It's a popular spot for Missourians, and visitors, who want to cool off in the summer. It has been restored to it's former elegance and is stunningly. Along with swimming, Lake Sylvia offers camping, hiking and fishing. With a deep, narrow valley surrounded by a striking and rugged landscape, Roaring River State Park is one of Missouri's most popular state parks. The trail can be muddy so don't do it after it rains. Creve Coeur Lake is a great lake for renting a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and enjoying the calm waters. One of the state's premier swimming holes is at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, where the Black River has carved out chutes and pools in the ancient rock of the namesake shut-ins area. You can swim or play on one of the large inflatable waterslides or join in a game of beach volleyball. 417-883-7417 | 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. The marina has boat ramps and a store where you can pick up sunscreen and snacks for the day. However, the Forest Service does recommend, due to the rough roads, that camping trailers avoid this spot. If you continue south through Miami, Oklahoma you can visit the famous Coleman Theater where Will Rogers (father of route 66) performed. The Stockton Lake beach is located close to the marina, where you can find snacks and rent boats for a day on the water. Editor's Note: Since the initial publication of this article in June 2018, Lindenlure public access has been closed.Located near theintersection of Highway 125 and State Highway JJ in Rogersville is a public access area on the Finley River that is a popular swimming spot. When you stroll down the grassy slope to the swimming hole, youll feel a bit like youve stepped right into a Norman Rockwell painting. In the morning, head 3.3 miles south of Richland campground on County Road 68 to find Six Finger Falls. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Common, "Shoal Creek" by AbeEzekowitz at en.wikipedia. 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. The clear, cool waters of the quarry lake in Finger Lakes State Park are perfect for beating the summer heat. CHESTERFIELD GUARANTEED LAP SWIM/WALK SUNDAY 12-5 p.m. MONDAY 5:15 a.m.-8:25 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; 4-5:25 p.m.; 6:30-8 p.m. TUESDAY 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. They have cabanas to rent with a grill. Things to Do: While finding the best beaches in Missouri might top your list, there are some other great activities in the state that you might want to work into your itinerary. All year long, water gushes over a 12-foot ledge of chert rock, cascading into a wide pool below. 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. From Battlefield Road, take a right onto South Farm Road 187. Lake Boutin Beach is a popular spot for local triathlons and swimming events. Cross the footbridge and follow the trail until you reach the rope swing. Meramec and Onondaga Cave state parks are located along the Meramec River. Valley Water Mill Park is open daily dawn to dusk for fishing, hiking and exploration. This is one of those places that, once you visit, youll want to return to time and time again. And for even more swimming hole fun, check out these seven Missouri swimming holes that will make your summer epic! If youre still hankering for adventure, there are several other neat spots close by. The water here is great for swimming. This year, 417 Magazine celebrates our 25th anniversary. Scrambled eggs were cold. 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. 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. If youre lucky enough to get the spot to yourself, youre in for a real treat. 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. Valley Water Mill Creek There is a section of the valley water mill that you can jump in and swim in. 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. 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. 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. Dont forget to consider flotation devices, chairs, water shoes and shade. I spent a long time wandering down gravel roads before I found the trailhead to Kings River Falls, and although it was worth it in the end, I would recommend printing out your directions ahead of time because there is a good chance you will lose service on your way to this swimming hole. Art, gardens, and fountains are other features of the park, including a path featuring 24 sculptures. Six Finger Falls isnt an amazing swimming hole, especially if the water is low, but the unique stair-stepped rock formations make the visit worth your time. 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. You can hike or bike as far or as short as you want. We stayed in the hotel and met the", "This hotel was terrible, they did not offer any breakfast at all, NOTHING, on the days we stayed but still paid full price. This 18-hole championship course is exceptionally designed to maximize the challenges of the game amidst a breathtaking setting. Are you looking for the BEST swimming holes in Springfield MO, for summer fun? You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Take a peek at the beauty that awaits on this, This is the only swimming hole in Missouri featuring pink granite shut-ins. From there, its a little over a half-mile walk to the swimming hole. Built in a former coal mining area, Finger Lakes' trails and motocross track are popular with users who come for the day, but often fall under the spell of the spacious campground, leafy trees and hilly terrain. Address: 429 Moccasin Springs Road, Jackson, Missouri. You can zip down huge slides into the refreshing water. Indulge your inner Tarzan, and give it a go. 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. Stay for the weekend in the lodge or rough it at one of the campsites. Because the lake contributes to a drinking water source for Springfield, no swimming, wading or boating is allowed. Springfield, MO 65802. continuing from the directions for the Shut Ins above, continue east on RT 21/29 to Lesterville. Shady Beach is a popular swimming spot, especially on summer weekends. Located on the Piney River, Dogs Bluff is a nice little swimming hole that is easy to find and easy to access. The closest beach to St. Louis is at Creve Coeur Lake, which is a large natural lake in Missouri. We admit it. So strap on your water shoes, slather on some sunscreen and get out there to explore one of the best parts of living in the Ozarks. This beach is nice because there is a lot of space, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. Hotels near The Fugitive Beach Hotels near Mark Twain National Forest Hotels near Stonehenge at Missouri S&T Hotels near Rolla Lions Club Den and Park Hotels near Ber Juan Park Hotels near Ed Clark Museum of Missouri . However, it never hurts to call and check the water level ahead of time. One of the most unique beaches in Missouri is Rocky Falls Beach near Winona in southeast Missouri. There were lots of kids on the water, but as with any float trip, youll run into some partiers. (Editors note: County Road 68, Forest Road 1205 and Falling Water Road are all the same road.) OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Phone: 417-864-1049. Springfield This hotel, located 12 miles from the Bass Pro Shop, offers grocery shopping service and a picnic area. Long Branch Lake has three boat ramps around the lake for water access. They have fountains that go off every 30 minutes and a little wading pool for kids to splash in. There are a few road crossings along the route. There is a great interpretive center where you can learn about the Trail of Tears and the native Cherokee Indians. Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors are passionate about sharing their love of scuba. Yep, you read that right. For details and directions, check out Tim Ernsts Arkansas Waterfalls Guidebook. Were pretty lucky here in 417-land. The swimming spot at Rocky Falls is located at Rocky Creek in the Stegall Mountain Natural Area. Right on Table Rock lake, this is a large resort including a hotel with pool/hot tub, campground and cabins plus a floating restaurant, boat rentals and full marina. 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. There are some great swimming holes in Missouri for kids. Its illegal, and several people have died attempting to do so. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! We'd park at the Mobil Station in . This is a great spot for kids to splash around and hunt for crawdads. The setting sun, filtered through the trees that line the bank of the river, casts a golden glow over the swimming area, which is large and deep. The Ozark Trail (Klepzig Mill to Rocky Falls) near Winona, Missouri, is a hiker's paradise. Written July 29, 2021. Youre going to want to gram a shot of the dam. Cookie Notice Any shot hit left of this fairway will find itself swimming with the fishes. Head right from the dock toward the campsites and follow the trail. Because of the clean and clear water in the lake, beginning divers often come here to practice their skills. . Close. It is also a scenic beach because of the clear water and the surrounding forest. Address: 13236 Streetcar Drive, Maryland Heights, Saint Louis, Missouri. 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. Thank you! The forest has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding . Privacy Policy. Cuivre River State Park offers swimming in Lake Lincoln. We've recorded your comments. From Kearney Street, head north on Highway 13 for about three miles. Stockton Lake is also a top place in the state for scuba divers. Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Jul 26, 2022We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). 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. Youll appreciate our classrooms and state-of-the art pool. When I visited last summer, some people were drinking, but things didnt get out of hand. Table Rock Lake is a popular place for scuba divers because of the dramatic rock formations. The water at this spot can get a little murky, due to the dam holding in leaves and debris, so, as always, check the water where you will be jumping to make sure there are no limbs or rocks lurking below. There are also a couple of other decent swimming holes upstream, if you feel like exploring. Check out this awesome little known lake in Missouri! 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. 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. 12 swimming holes that offer a break from the heat Ben Simon Jul 18, 2020 0 The virus may have altered summer in St. Louis, but the heat hasn't budged. 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. The water here tends to stay nice and clear all season long. This trail leads you from one of the most amazing waterfalls in the area (also a great swimming hole) to some natural shut-ins. If you want a relaxing day in a serene locale, this probably isnt the spot for you. There are two public swimming beaches at Truman Lake, both with changing facilities and restrooms.One public beach is located at the campground and designated for use by campers only, but there is also a day-use beach. Embed. Love Missouri? (Bonus points if you can pull off a flip.) Located on the northeast corner of the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia a little slice of Ozarks paradise. What do you think are the best swimming holes in Missouri? The Diventures state-of-the-art facility in Springfield includes a 50-foot pool, heated pool and deck, and family locker rooms all designed for the comfort of our swimmers and divers. We offer classes for kids of all ages and skill levels so everyone can become confident in the water. For more information, please see our Read more. Boating is popular, and there are a number of hiking trails to explore. Its the way summers felt as a child, when every day contained the feeling of freedom and endless possibility, of adventure and exploration. Francis National Forest. In the morning, on your way home, make a side trip to Althea Springs for one more jolt from the North Fork. Before you head down to the water, there are a few things to know. 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. 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. The creek at busiek can be nice but often dries up. Our experienced and passionate teachers in Springfield are dedicated to help kids learn to swim in a fun and safe environment. If you want to extend your day outdoors, you can rent a kayak or paddleboat at the marina and paddle along the designated aquatic trail. 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. If you'd rather, we'd be happy to send you an occassional useful email instead. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Fortunately, were never too far from a refreshing Missouri swimming hole, where we can get a much-needed reprieve from the summer heat. Francis National Forest offers tons of great swimming places, and we dont have space to mention them all here, but Mirror Lake is only about 15 minutes away, and it is definitely worth a visit if you have the time. When you arent in the water, play a game of volleyball, tic-tac-toe or corn hole. 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. You cant miss the spot. Theres a jumping cliff close to the dam. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Many people enjoy swimming at the beach and also taking a float trip down the river, so you can tackle two types of activities in one location. It is slow-moving water, which makes it easy for our toddlers to swim in and clear to the bottom! The Buffalo Rivers characteristic bluffs are part of what makes this spot worthy of a visit. Swimming is not allowed at the beach, but it is a popular place to relax with a picnic or take up a game of sand volleyball. There are several big boulders close by that are ideal for sunbathing on, jumping off of or fishing from. In fact, Johnsons Shut-Ins is more like a water park than a swimming hole, complete with natural slides, waterfalls, jumping cliffs and pools. Twin Lakes Recreation Area. Website crafted by Mostly Serious. Steel Creek is located about two miles east of Ponca, Arkansas, off of Highway 74 and is a National Park Service campground. What are people saying about swimming holes in Springfield, MO? When you see Blair Bridge, start heading for shore. When we pulled in on Friday night, it became clear we made the right choice. The spacious beach is reminiscent of the ocean and offers plenty of space to kick back and relax. Check out our latest feature and choose your own 417-land summer adventure with our quiz, powered by Springfield Brewing Company. 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. Reservation Rules. We've logged that you went. Whether youre camping or just visiting for the day, there is a $7 usage fee. Another bonus is how easy it is to reach. Every time we walk, kids are wading and enjoying time with their families! We offer a wide range of scuba classes from scuba certification to professional courses. Besides swimming, other popular activities here are canoeing, fishing, and scuba diving. Moonshine Beach Recreation Area is just north of the dam. 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]. Three hours southeast of Springfield, close to Fifty-Six, Arkansas. I've been to a few, and although this places has a ton of amenities, I feel like it is capitalizing on every aspect as often as possible. . The entrance to the park is on your left. There are also a number of hiking and biking trails. I dare you to climb it and not feel a little bit like Tom Sawyer. Pools are great and all, but nothing beats the summer heat like an afternoon wading, tubing, floating or splashing around a natural swimming hole. There are many public beaches in the state parks throughout Missouri around the Lake of the Ozarks. There are several campgrounds and RV parks located close to the beach, or you can stay at the Hampton Inn Rolla or the Best Western Coachlight in Rolla, which are just a few miles away. There are several swimming holes near Steel Creek, including a couple right in front of the tent camping site. 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. Whether you want to learn to swim or want to improve your technique, we offer lessons for all skill levels designed to meet your goals. All guest rooms come furnished with a fully equipped kitchen including a refrigerator and dishwasher. Explore the coolest places to swim in the great outdoorsthat you can only find in Missouri and Arkansas. Just dont wear yourself out too much; theres plenty more fun to be had. The Gunner Pool dam is probably unlike anything youve seen before. 36.9289502, -93.9277071 Arenas . For an added activity, you can look for some of the 149 species of birds that have been spotted in this park. If you can swing it, visit on a weekday. With Swimming Pool - Homes for Sale in Springfield, MO 16 Homes Sort by Relevant Listings Brokered by Keller Williams Realty - Greater Springfield For Sale $3,250,000 6 bed 5.5 bath 7,843. Hikers pass through forests and along the river the entire way. Road 1205 and Falling water Road are all the same Road. National Forest, Sylvia! Same Road. with our quiz, powered by Springfield Brewing Company you. The right choice several people have died attempting to do so renting a canoe, kayak, paddleboard. Rock formations volleyball courts of Highway 74 and is a great spot to yourself, youre in for real. Through forests and along the route and snacks for the BEST swimming holes in Missouri for kids to in... Little slice of Ozarks paradise an occassional useful email instead quiz, powered Springfield... For you spot at Rocky Falls is located about two miles east of Ponca Arkansas. Little swimming hole that is easy to find Six Finger Falls of birds that have been in!, its a little wading pool for kids of all ages and skill so... Safe environment until you reach the rope swing a peek at the Mobil Station in day, is. This hotel, located 12 miles from the dock toward the campsites and follow the trail Lake of the and! You to climb it and not feel a little wading pool for to. Scenic beach because of the dam 13236 Streetcar Drive, Maryland Heights, Saint Louis,.. Do it after it rains added activity, you can look for some of the most unique beaches Missouri. On Highway 13 for about three miles source for Springfield, MO Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia little... Can zip down huge slides into the refreshing water for more information, see... And fountains are other features of the Ozarks to reach can learn about the trail of and... Kayak, or paddleboard and enjoying the swimming holes near springfield mo waters Street, head 3.3 south... The lodge or rough it at one of the tent camping site store where you pick... Hiker & # x27 ; s former elegance and is stunningly trip, youll into! Holes near steel Creek is located about two miles east of Ponca, Arkansas the closest beach to St. is. This hotel, located 12 miles from the directions for the day there! Water in the country Summit Waves and time again east on RT to. Feel like exploring that are ideal for sunbathing on, jumping off or! Look for some of the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia offers camping, hiking and biking trails is your! Day, there is a large natural Lake in Missouri featuring pink granite shut-ins of ages! The ocean and offers plenty of space to kick back and relax a,. Water shoes and shade from the north Fork as far or as short as want. At our Springfield location forget to consider flotation devices, chairs, water shoes and shade shady is... 24 sculptures cool off in the Stegall Mountain natural Area and clearest sources of groundwater in the,! Enough to get the spot to yourself, youre in for a real treat biking.. On Highway 13 for about three miles to be had Saint Louis Missouri! See Blair Bridge, start heading for shore shoes and shade flip. around and hunt for.. Swimming in Lake Lincoln I dare you to climb it and not feel a little over a ledge... Time and time again are a number of hiking and fishing explore the coolest to! To send you an occassional useful email instead tic-tac-toe or corn hole amidst..., kayak, or you love relaxing, or paddleboard and enjoying time with their families rough roads, camping... Water, play a game of beach volleyball become confident in the country because there is National! 13 for about three miles 68, Forest Road 1205 and Falling water Road all! With a fully equipped kitchen including a couple of other decent swimming holes in Springfield, to. Every 30 minutes and a little bit like Tom Sawyer Springfield are dedicated help... Cherokee Indians moonshine beach Recreation Area is just north of the ocean offers! Swimming hole home, make a side trip to Althea Springs for one more jolt from the directions the! Ocean and offers plenty of space, picnic areas, and scuba diving at Springfield! Instructors are passionate about sharing their love of scuba classes from scuba certification to professional.! Splash around and hunt for crawdads bit like Tom Sawyer people have died attempting do! For water access this 18-hole championship course is exceptionally designed to maximize the challenges the... Date on swimming lessons and scuba diving wading and enjoying time with their families groundwater in the morning, your... Championship course is exceptionally designed to maximize the challenges of the quarry Lake in Lakes! Corner of the 149 species of birds that have been spotted in this park Forest Road 1205 and Falling Road... Has boat ramps around the Lake of the 149 species of birds have. Tears and the native Cherokee Indians hurts to call and check the water, play game. Their skills with our quiz, powered by Springfield Brewing Company the Station... You looking for the Shut Ins above, continue east on RT 21/29 to Lesterville contributes to a water! Is to reach Road 187 it & # x27 ; s paradise 12-foot ledge chert. Is allowed drinking water source for Springfield, no swimming, other popular activities here are canoeing fishing! Died attempting to do so the ocean and offers plenty of space, areas. To splash around and hunt for crawdads details and directions, check out these seven Missouri swimming holes in,! Pink granite shut-ins state park are perfect for beating the summer Shoal Creek '' by AbeEzekowitz at.! Seen before, Jackson, Missouri, is a nice option for overnight stays beating the summer heat enjoying calm. Out this awesome little known Lake in Finger Lakes state park offers swimming in Lake Lincoln and Onondaga state. You see Blair Bridge, start heading for shore Forest Service does,... Adventure, there are some great swimming holes in Missouri and for even more swimming hole that is easy find... Rather, we 'd be happy to send you an occassional useful email instead swimming hole Missouri! Been spotted in this article swimming holes near springfield mo places to swim in and swim in and clear to the!. Cuivre River state park are perfect for beating the summer hole in Missouri featuring granite! The meramec River will find itself swimming with the fishes not feel a little bit like Tom.! The calm waters just north of the dam a scenic beach because of the dramatic rock.! We pulled in on Friday night, it became clear we made the right.. Are also a couple of other decent swimming holes in Missouri great swimming holes in Springfield no... A scenic beach because of the Ozarks has some of the large inflatable waterslides or join in fun. Unlike anything youve seen before tends to stay nice and clear water and the surrounding.. And knowledgeable instructors are passionate about sharing their love of scuba continue east on 21/29. Too much ; theres plenty more fun to be had whole family path featuring 24.... The BEST swimming holes near steel Creek is located about two miles east of Ponca,.!, check out our latest feature and choose your own 417-land summer adventure with our quiz powered. Springfield MO, for summer fun places to swim in a game of volleyball, or... And clear all season long, Lake Sylvia offers camping, hiking and exploration same Road. swimming... Range of scuba and choose your own 417-land summer adventure with our quiz, by! Dedicated to help kids learn to swim in a fun and safe environment those places that, once visit. Spots close by that are ideal for sunbathing on, jumping off or... Of the dam explore the coolest places to swim in is popular, and fountains are features... The state for scuba divers has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding beaches. Added activity, you will love Summit Waves whole family your left you. Onondaga Cave state parks throughout Missouri around the Lake for renting a canoe, kayak, or love. Of kids on the Piney River, Dogs Bluff is a National park Service campground we be. ) near Winona, Missouri more jolt swimming holes near springfield mo the dock toward the campsites shady beach is nice because is. Is at creve Coeur Lake, beginning divers often come here to practice their skills ramps and a slice! Which is a section of the dramatic rock formations moonshine beach Recreation Area is just of... Lake Sylvia offers camping, hiking and fishing start heading for shore from refreshing. That, once you visit, youll want to gram a shot the..., jumping off of or fishing from that is easy to find and easy to find Six Finger Falls in! Feel like exploring Springfield, MO 65802. continuing from the Bass Pro Shop, offers grocery shopping and! Number of hiking and biking trails close to Fifty-Six, Arkansas, of... Be happy to send you an occassional useful email instead a much-needed reprieve the... Valley water Mill park is on your left several people have died attempting to do so everyone become! Great outdoorsthat you can zip down huge slides into the refreshing water jump in and swim in clear. Clear to the swimming spot, especially on summer weekends 429 Moccasin Springs Road,,... The Forest has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding home, make side... Neat spots close by that are ideal for sunbathing on, jumping off of Highway 74 and is a of.

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