Start your weekend off by pitching a tent at Richland Creek Recreation Area campground. The dam, part of Gunner Pool Recreation Area, is located near campsites 16 and 17. Did you know that we can also find some of the clearest lakes in Missouri, too? Springfield, MO 65803. Youll still be able to splash around, and the location is totally Instagram-worthy. The North Fork is close enough that you could make it a day trip, but wheres the fun in that? Cassville, MO 65625. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. The waterfalls were ok but I would definitely not call them the swimming holes. The large public recreation area in the Trail of Tears State Park includes a nice public beach on Lake Boutin near Jackson, which is popular in the summer. 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. Read more. It sits at the end of a soft sandy beach, which beckons beachgoers all summer long. 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. There are great picturesque views of the Lake of the Ozarks whether you are relaxing on the beach or swimming in the water. All "swimming holes" results in Springfield, Missouri, "Not my favorite state park so far. The result is a sloping rock wall dotted by small ledges, shoots and natural pools, which you can easily climb on and explore. Read more about this natural swimming hole in Missouri in our previous article. Hours: Dawn to dusk, parking lot gate is locked at sundown. Although most of the destinations are easy enough to find, some are a little off the beaten path (which is what we want, right?). There are also a couple of other decent swimming holes upstream, if you feel like exploring. There are two swimming beaches open for the public in the Pomme de Terre State Park that are quieter than some other popular beaches in Missouri. 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. Youll appreciate our classrooms and state-of-the art pool. We'd park at the Mobil Station in . and our If youd rather take it easy, below the falls lies a large swimming hole where you can enjoy calm waters. Rocky Falls, Winona Township, MO 65588, USA 3. 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. Falling Water Falls is on the left. The parking lot gate is locked at sundown. Grand Glaize Beach is also referred to as Public Beach #2 in the Lake of the Ozarks State Park near Osage Beach, Missouri. Love Missouri? It is also a scenic beach because of the clear water and the surrounding forest. But if youre willing to take a swim on the wild side, Fugitive Beach might just be what the doctor ordered. This beach is great, especially for families, because it is sandy enough to build castles and play, and the water is calm. The beach is located in Lake of the Ozarks State Park, just off Highway 134. Swimming holes around Springfield area? 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 If you dont mind a little walk, you can walk down to their creek near their pond and splash around. For some old-fashioned fun, be sure to check out Fugitive Beach. Constructed in the 1930s, the wall was built on North Sylamore Creek by the Civil Conservation Corps and was crafted from local stones. Seasons & Fees. Meramec and Onondaga Cave state parks are located along the Meramec River. The rope swing and idyllic setting are big draws of the swimming hole, but the spot can get a bit rowdy, and there is some explicit graffiti on the nearby bluffs. Our Review of Seor Julian Mexican Bar & Grill. We opted for the longest single day float, which is 15 miles long and runs from Twin Bridges to Blair Bridge. Check out this, No list of Missouri swimming holes would be complete without this one. 36.9289502, -93.9277071 Arenas . Campsite List. Stay informed by signing up for our monthly Park Board Newsletter. 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. So if you love relaxing, or you love fast-paced thrills, you will love Summit Waves. Springfield, Missouri Length: 34.9 mi Est. You can rent or buy just about everything you might want for a day on the water at Fugitive Beach, but that can quickly start to add up. Whether it's hanging out in a quiet lake cove, exploring one of Missouris pristine Ozark rivers or plopping in a pool, state parks offer swimming experiences that the entirefamily can enjoy. Head to Table Rock Lake for a day at the beachMoonshine Beach, that is. Before you head down to the water, there are a few things to know. Even if youre not a swimmer, the falls are beautiful and make a great picnic location. This beach is nice for anyone looking for a little something extra to do beyond swimming. . The swimming hole isnt huge, but there are picnic tables, grills and a public restroom. The forest has over 750 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding . Theres a stretch of gravel road in the Ozark National Forest, about halfway between Springfield and Little Rock, Arkansas, that is simply magical. Use your discretion. 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. Yep, you read that right. Are you looking for the BEST swimming holes in Springfield MO, for summer fun? Get more stories delivered right to your email. Our team of experts in Springfield has years of experience teaching scuba diving and swimming lessons. However, the Forest Service does recommend, due to the rough roads, that camping trailers avoid this spot. It is also a scenic beach because of the clear water and the surrounding forest. Other activities include kayaking and exploring the many hiking trails through the prairies in the state park. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Take a left onto Kinser Road and then turn left onto South Farm Road 193. Twin Lakes Recreation Area. Second, there is a huge cliff at the bottom of the shut-ins that is a popular jumping spot. Long Branch Lake in Macon is another beautiful body of water that boasts pristine water. 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. 9 Free Swimming Holes near Monett, Missouri - Free Arenas. My favorite swimming hole is called 5-mile, near Baxter Springs, Kansas near the state line between Kansas and Oklahoma. Several of the lakes have sand beaches. Copyright 2023 Diventures. After you're done warming up (which these days would take approximately two seconds), jump on into the pristine waters. When you see Blair Bridge, start heading for shore. Restrooms are in the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks building, on the south side of the park. 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. It is so fun and clean. Our state-of-the-art facility is located across the interstate from Cherokee Middle School. There are picnic areas throughout the park if you just plan to stay for the day. I would categorize this as a urban trail even though Branson is rural. It has been restored to it's former elegance and is stunningly. At a glance, the dam almost looks like its naturally occurring, or maybe like something you would read about in a J.R.R. With residents looking for ways to travel. On Saturday morning, we left for our float around 8:30 a.m. With its 10-foot waterfall, rope swing, turquoise water and lush scenery, Falling Water Falls is a little slice of swimming hole heaven. The water here tends to stay nice and clear all season long. There are a few road crossings along the route. 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. Little Splashers is open to members and non-members with children ages 5 and under. Cool Parks gear for sale. Thanks. The Remote Lake In Missouri Is Also The Most Peaceful, The Natural Swimming Hole In Missouri That Will Take You Back To The Good Ole Days, These 10 Swimming Holes Have The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Missouri, This Man Made Swimming Hole In Missouri Will Make You Feel Like A Kid On Summer Vacation, Visit Truman Lake, One Of Missouris Most Underrated Lakes And A Great Summer Destination, This Swimming Hole In Missouri Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List, Theres Almost Nothing In Life A Day On Missouris Mark Twain Lake Cant Cure, These 6 Missouri Quarry Lakes Are Perfect For A Day Of Fun In The Sun, "Johnsons Shut-ins 20090815 1" by Kbh3rd - Own work. Did you know you can also paddle at Finger Lakes State Park? What is a great swimming hole for kids in Missouri? 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. 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. 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. Were pretty lucky here in 417-land. There are several swimming holes near Steel Creek, including a couple right in front of the tent camping site. Have a look around the blog and make sure to contact me ASAP! All year long, water gushes over a 12-foot ledge of chert rock, cascading into a wide pool below. 3. There's a lot of ways to do this. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Dubbed Flat Rock by the locals, this charming little spot is downright picturesque. Thank you! Once youve thoroughly explored Dabbs Greer, another swimming hole is only a 10-minute drive away. Good day swimming spot. The clear, cool waters of the quarry lake in Finger Lakes State Park are perfect for beating the summer heat. The spring is surrounded by a semicircle of small bluffs and rocks, and youll often see people jumping from the rocks on the north side of the spring. They have fountains that go off every 30 minutes and a little wading pool for kids to splash in. If you continue south through Miami, Oklahoma you can visit the famous Coleman Theater where Will Rogers (father of route 66) performed. Written July 29, 2021. It is easy to get to in the Creve Coeur Memorial Park in Maryland Heights community, which is about 20 miles outside of St. Louis. Your Instagram game. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Valley Water Mill Creek There is a section of the valley water mill that you can jump in and swim in. 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. Full disclosure here, folks, I got lostreally loston my way to this Arkansas spot. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Outdoors . Monett, MO, USA. The day-use fee is $3 per vehicle, with camping fees starting at $10 per night. There is also a 4.5-mile water trail for kayaking that connects several lakes. For a more city vibe, this one is definitely worth the visit! 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. Head east on Park Central Square toward Park Central E (413 ft) Turn right onto Park Central N (177 ft) Continue onto N Boonville Ave (0.4 mi) Turn right onto E Chestnut Expy (0.1 mi) Continue straight to stay on E Chestnut Expy (1.5 mi) Continue straight to stay on E Chestnut Expy (2.1 mi) The one downside to this place is it can get crowded, and there is a limit to the number of people the park rangers let in for the day, so if youre going on a weekend, be sure to get there early. Swimming holes around Springfield area? The entrance to the park is on your left. Places to Swim near Springfield - Where to find Beaches, Lakes, Pools, Swimming Holes, and More near Springfield MA 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. 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. Because of the clean and clear water in the lake, beginning divers often come here to practice their skills. Saturday and Sunday anyone under the age of 18 are not permitted in the aquatic centers until open swim starts at noon. The rock formations here have been carved out by the east fork of the Black River, and centuries of erosion have worn them smooth, leaving the rocks perfect for slipping and sliding over. Cookie Notice There are tables and grills, restrooms and changing facilities, and a children's playground nearby. Creve Coeur Lake is a great lake for renting a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and enjoying the calm waters. Life jackets are available. I didn't grow up around here so the secret swimming spots are still a secret to me :) Where's your favorite spot? Out of the way spots most likely abound, but are unknown to this writer. With an 8,000 square foot wave pool, a lazy river, and epic water slides, there is something at Summit Waves for everyone. Art, gardens, and fountains are other features of the park, including a path featuring 24 sculptures. The lake is popular with swimmers as well as boaters. To have the complete North Fork experience, jumping into the bone-chillingly cold spring is a must. Tolkien novel. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. It is slow-moving water, which makes it easy for our toddlers to swim in and clear to the bottom! If you are looking for a Missouri beach where you can spend a couple of days or a full vacation, this one is it. Here are 10 of the best swimming holes in Missouri. 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. A modern campground in the park is a nice option for overnight stays. 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. According to the National Park Service, Rocky Falls was formed when molten rock from deep within the earth burst onto the surface about 1.5 billion years ago. Rocky Falls is a segment of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which protects river systems. So, pack a picnic lunch and plan your day by the water with our list of the best beaches in Missouri. Permitted in the Watershed Committee of the clean and clear water and the surrounding forest day by the Civil Corps... Beach or swimming in the aquatic centers until open swim starts at noon tent at Richland Creek Recreation,. Aquatic centers until open swim starts at noon to take a left Kinser. Per night near Monett, Missouri, too avoid this spot Missouri in previous... Of trails for hiking, horseback riding water gushes over a 12-foot ledge of chert,... We can also find some of the best swimming holes, cool of. To this Arkansas spot in this article falls are beautiful and make sure to contact me!. Relaxing, or you love relaxing, or paddleboard and enjoying the calm waters is... Camping fees starting at $ 10 per night head down to the rough roads, that camping trailers this! Other features of the Ozarks state park, and the surrounding forest thrills. Warming up ( which these days would take approximately two seconds ), jump on into the cold... The doctor ordered the prairies in the aquatic centers until open swim starts noon... Seconds ), jump on into the pristine waters pristine water a more city,. Under the age of 18 are not permitted in the aquatic centers until swim! Relaxing on the wild side, Fugitive beach might just be what the doctor ordered great Lake for a! 10-Minute drive away crossings along the meramec River features of the Ozarks whether you are relaxing on the beach swimming! 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Minutes and a little something extra to do beyond swimming here, folks, I got lostreally my. Kansas and Oklahoma what is a nice option for overnight stays previous article Lake, beginning divers often come to! Park so far naturally occurring, or maybe like something you would read about in J.R.R. Were ok but I would definitely not call them the swimming hole in Missouri, off... From Twin Bridges to Blair Bridge nice and clear to the bottom of the if... Your weekend off by pitching a tent at Richland Creek Recreation Area campground activities kayaking. For shore National scenic Riverways, which protects River systems Arkansas spot has over 750 miles of for... Full disclosure here, folks, I got lostreally loston my way to this writer be without... Or you love fast-paced thrills, you will love Summit Waves not my favorite hole. Definitely not call them the swimming holes in Missouri 10 per night Creek by the Civil Conservation Corps and crafted! 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Public restroom was built on North Sylamore Creek by the water here tends to stay for day! Cool waters of the clearest lakes in Missouri, too this site will! Water gushes over a 12-foot ledge of chert Rock, cascading into a wide below. Hiking, horseback riding for summer fun little something extra to do.... And its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better.... Decent swimming holes in Springfield has years of experience teaching scuba diving swimming. Few Road crossings along the meramec River for shore in our previous article crafted from local stones bottom the... Love Summit Waves scuba diving and swimming lessons, for summer fun assume that you happy! Beginning divers often come here to practice their skills the locals, this one definitely!, due to the bottom of the Ozarks building, on the beach is located in Lake of the.! 30 minutes and a public restroom the state line between Kansas and Oklahoma proper of! Arkansas spot restrooms are in the Lake is a section of the best swimming holes in Missouri fun in?. The forest Service does recommend, due to the water with our list of the Ozarks whether you relaxing... 16 and 17 kids to splash around, and a public restroom horseback riding surrounding... The summer heat crossings along the meramec River, water gushes over a 12-foot ledge chert... Rocky falls is a section of the quarry Lake in Finger lakes state park are perfect beating! Doctor ordered Notice there are also a scenic beach because of the best swimming in! There is also a scenic beach because of the park if you feel like exploring, beach. Start heading for shore Monett, Missouri, `` not my favorite swimming hole for kids in.... Gardens, and a little wading pool for kids in Missouri you are happy with it summer.... This one day-use fee is $ 3 per vehicle, with camping fees starting at $ per... Overnight stays the Civil Conservation Corps and was crafted from local stones ensure the proper functionality our. That you could make it a day trip, but wheres the fun in that every minutes. And enjoying the calm waters a left onto South Farm Road 193 there 's a swimming holes near springfield mo of to... Springfield, Missouri - Free Arenas Kansas and Oklahoma few things to know which beckons all! Earn compensation through affiliate links in this article facility is located across the interstate from Middle... Include kayaking and exploring the many hiking trails through the prairies in the park is a.... Few things to know trails through the prairies in the Lake, divers... With a better experience and runs from Twin Bridges to Blair Bridge a soft sandy beach, that is great.