How do I know if a swimming hole is safe on a given day?

Check official park or land manager updates, water levels/flow, recent storms, and local advisories. Avoid high flows, flash-flood risk, and big surf. When in doubt, do not enter.

What should I bring to rocky natural pools?

Traction sandals or water shoes, sun protection, drinking water, small first-aid kit, and dry bag. Consider a PFD for children or weak swimmers.

Are permits or reservations ever required?

Some sites use timed entry, permits, or fee areas in peak season. Check the specific location’s official page before traveling.

Top Hidden Swimming Holes & Natural Pools in the United States

From mossy cascades in the Appalachians to volcanic tide pools in Hawaiʻi, these lesser-known spots offer cold-plunge serenity, cliff jumps (where permitted), and dreamy blue water. Always check local conditions, closures, permits, and water flow before you go.

The List

Cummins Falls swimming hole near Cookeville, Tennessee waterfall plunge pool

TNCummins Falls (Cookeville, Tennessee)

Powerful tiered waterfall with a rocky gorge approach; expect slick rocks and variable flow.

On hot days this emerald pool fills with hikers. At times, permits or restricted access may apply based on conditions—verify same-day requirements.

Blue Hole swimming spot in Wimberley, Texas with cypress-lined river

TXBlue Hole (Wimberley, Texas)

Spring-fed, tree-shaded swimming area with rope-swing vibes; crystal-clear water.

Reservations are commonly required in peak season. The cool temperature makes it a perfect mid-summer plunge.

Krause Springs natural pools in Spicewood, Texas with limestone terraces and waterfall

TXKrause Springs (Spicewood, Texas)

Dozens of springs feed terraced pools draped in ferns; dreamy limestone ledges.

Privately owned; day-use hours and fees vary. Bring water shoes for slick travertine and enjoy the shady picnic nooks.

Look and Tremble rapid on the Chipola River, Florida with sandy banks and swimming eddies

FLLook and Tremble (Chipola River, Florida)

Rare Florida “rapid” section creating playful eddies and swim-able pockets in clear tannin-stained water.

Water levels change the character a lot—low and lazy vs. pushy and swirly. Life jackets are a smart call for kids.

Guffey Gorge (Paradise Cove) near Guffey, Colorado cliff jumping cove

COGuffey Gorge / Paradise Cove (Guffey, Colorado)

Small granite amphitheater with a deep plunge pool and short approach hike.

Cliff jumping happens here but is risky—know depths and scout your line. Seasonal parking controls often apply.

Queen’s Bath tide pool in Princeville, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi with black lava rock basin

HIQueen’s Bath (Princeville, Kauaʻi)

Volcanic tide pool with dramatic surf and a lava-rock basin.

Dangerous in high surf or winter swell. Check ocean conditions and heed all closures and warnings; rogue waves are life-threatening.

MOJohnson’s Shut-Ins (Middle Brook, Missouri)

Granite “shut-ins” shape natural chutes and pocket pools along the Black River.

Expect cold water, smooth rock slides, and strong current in constricted slots—helmets recommended for adventurous runs.

NCSliding Rock (Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina)

A sloped rock waterslide dropping into a deep pool—iconic cold plunge near Brevard.

High-flow days can close access; lifeguards and fee collection often present in peak season.

NHDiana’s Baths (North Conway, New Hampshire)

Gentle cascades over broad granite slabs create many shallow wading pools.

Family-friendly flow most of the summer; traction sandals help on algae-slick surfaces.

NYPeekamoose Blue Hole (Catskills, New York)

Icy, ultraclear bend of Rondout Creek tucked in deep forest.

Parking and permit rules vary by season; pack out everything and expect very cold temps even in July.

Safety & Stewardship

Check conditions: flows, surf, closures, water quality, wildfire/storm impacts.
Know your limits: cold shock, slippery rock, hydraulics, and shallow landings are real hazards.
Leave No Trace: pack out trash, avoid trampling vegetation, and respect private property.

This guide is for trip inspiration only—not a guarantee of safety or access.

Luke’s Picks Editorial

Last updated Sep 22, 2025 • Hidden swimming holes & natural pools guide.