With spring and summer on the horizon, it’s time to start planning your next RV getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore a new area or just want to relax and take in the scenery, one of the best ways to do it is by visiting some of the best RV watering holes around.
We get it, not everyone needs RV sites, but there are also plenty of tent sites for primitive camping at the campgrounds around these popular swimming holes.
What makes a great watering hole?
While we love a good hiking trail in a state park, we also love swimming holes just as much (if not more).
However, not all swimming holes are created equally. So with that, here’s what we’ve found that makes the best watering holes and swimming holes to enjoy this summer on your RV adventures.
A great swimming hole should have crystal-clear water, a bottom free of rocks and debris, and deep enough to safely swim in. It should also have easy access for swimmers without having to traverse a steep bank or climb down too far into the water.
The surrounding area should be beautiful and peaceful, with plenty of shade from trees or other natural structures to provide refuge from the sun.
If possible, it’s nice to find a swimming hole with some natural features such as a waterfall or rapids nearby that can offer an extra dose of fun or adventure while swimming.
Lastly, swimming holes should be located away from roads, traffic and other noise sources so that visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility while they take a dip. However, we all of the sswimming holes on our list have a nearby campground to help make the experience even more enjoyable.
The best swimming holes for your RV summer vacation.
Without further ado, here are the best swimming holes to try this summer while on your RV vacation. Keep in mind that these aren’t in any order necessarily.
Jacob’s Well – Wimberley, TX
Jacob’s Well is a unique geological formation that draws the attention of both locals and visitors alike.
Once discovered, it is hard to forget the awe-inspiring beauty of the longest underwater cave in Texas – an artesian spring that delivers several thousand gallons of water per minute from the depths below.
As you explore this area, you’ll find it serves as headwaters to Cypress Creek which flows through Wimberley into Blue Hole and then to the Blanco River. This incredible site is home to diverse aquatic life and has been aptly dubbed “one of the most significant natural geologic areas in the Texas Hill Country” by experts.
Don’t miss out on this remarkable adventure.
Turkey Creek Blue Hole – Pinson, AL
The Blue Hole at Turkey Creek Preserve promises an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to enjoy a beautiful summer day.
This natural wonder features clear waters for swimming, multiple waterfalls for exploring, and even fun rapids that you can ride down.
The surrounding area is filled with lush trees and blooming wildflowers, making this the perfect spot to kick back and relax while taking in all the beauty of nature.
Whether you’re a local or hitting up Alabama on vacation, the Blue Hole is essential to creating lasting memories this season.
Ichetucknee Springs – Fort White, FL
The Ichetucknee River is a natural gem that provides an abundance of outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to tube down the river during the summer months, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or camp along its banks, the Ichetucknee River offers something for everyone.
The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, from white-tailed deer and raccoons to great blue herons and wild turkeys.
Picnic areas with tables and grills are available throughout the park, as well as a full-service concession offering food, beverages, and outdoor products from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Scuba diving is available in the Blue Hole only (you must be cave certified) from October to March.
Madison Blue Springs – Lee, FL
Madison Blue Spring located in the Madison Blue Spring State Park is a breathtaking natural swimming hole offering plenty of recreational opportunities for people of all ages.
Visitors can enjoy activities like canoeing, fishing, swimming and more, amidst a picturesque natural setting of mixed hardwoods, pines and crystal-clear waterways.
The shaded pool sits around 82 feet wide and 25 feet deep, with plenty of deep holes perfect for swimming under the sun.
One of the things we love the most about this fresh water destination is that it was voted number 1 by USA Today as it’s one of the best places in the country to spend an enjoyable day with family or friends.
Grasshopper Point – Sedona, AZ
Spend a day filled with adventure and fun at Grasshopper Point. This popular swimming area is located in Oak Creek Canyon, 2 miles north of Sedona, AZ.
The area offers deep swimming water under beautiful canyon walls and access to great hiking trails, including Allen’s Bend Trail and Casner Trail.
Enjoy activities like fishing, swimming, picnicking, and even cave jumping as you take in the stunning landscape views.
Please note, however, that cliff jumping and diving are discouraged due to safety risks; however, there is still plenty of opportunity for excitement here. Depending on the time of year, you might encounter big crowds of swimmers, so plan accordingly.
Hamilton Pool – Dripping Springs, TX
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hamilton Pool Preserve!
This historic swimming hole is located 3/4 mile upstream from its confluence with the Pedernales River and includes a 50-foot waterfall that cascades into the head of a steep box canyon.
The fragile ecosystem is protected as a preserve and remains relatively constant, even in periods of drought.
Come and enjoy this picturesque oasis in Central Texas – an experience you won’t forget.
Cherokee Falls – Cloudland Canyon, GA
North Georgia’s Cloudland Canyon is a natural gem of stunning beauty and breathtaking views.
Hike the popular Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail to experience the magnificent sight of two incredible waterfalls, Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls.
Gaze out deep into the canyon’s depths and across its wide expanse; you won’t soon forget these majestic sights!
Enjoy an unforgettable outdoor adventure as you explore this unique setting in North Georgia.
Kraus Springs – Spicewood, TX
Experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the Colorado River at Krause Springs. Located in Spicewood, Texas, the 115-acre property boasts 32 springs, a manmade pool, and a natural pool that flows into Lake Travis.
Take a refreshing swim in the hot summers or camp primitively or with RVs with full hookups.
Relax among the Butterfly Gardens and enjoy the music of wind chimes and fountains as you explore what this historic site has to offer.
Santa Rosa Blue Hole – Santa Rosa, NM
Experience the thrill of diving into the legendary Blue Hole of Santa Rosa in New Mexico. This circular, bell-shaped pool is a sight to behold, with artesian well origins and a history as a fish hatchery. It’s not only one of the most popular dive spots in the US, but an iconic tourist attraction and swimming destination.
And, if we’re being honest, this is one of our favorite swimming holes on the list.
Take on the underwater adventure at this unique destination today.
There’s many more watering holes out there!
Keep in mind that these are just nine of the many swimming holes in and around the US, each with its own unique characteristics.
With a bit of research and exploration, you can find your perfect swimming holes for swimming, fishing, camping, or just soaking up some sun.
Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to be safe and follow all safety protocols while enjoying these amazing sites in the summer heat.
Whether you’re looking for a lake to swim in or a campground located off the beaten path, there are countless hot springs, swimming holes, and pools for you to do some camping at.
We’d love to hear about your favorite swimming hole.
Whether you have your own swimming hole or you prefer to do some tent camping at a local campground with a fantastic watering hole, we’d love to hear about it. We might even feature our reader’s swimming holes, so be sure to let us know all about it.
We’ll continue to add more campground watering holes right here as we find out about them so you’ll have the best places to take a refreshing dip this summer.
