Top 5: Swimming Holes in the Midwest

There’s nothing more refreshing in the summer than an all-natural swimming hole and the Midwest has some of the best.

A photo posted by Missouri Dept of Conservation (@moconservation) on May 20, 2015 at 8:58am PDT

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Located within the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, this state park is home to a deep stream separated into small pools, some tranquil and some not so much. Missouri residents come from all around the state to enjoy the waters.

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Firehole River Swimming Area

In Wyoming, this spot is fed by the geothermal springs of Yellowstone. The water is warm, comparable to a hot tub. The water conditions can change daily, though, so you’ll want to check on the current reports before you make the trip.

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Amnicon Falls State Park

A Wisconsin favorite, ancient earthquakes created this swimming hole. With plenty of shade and privacy, it’s a great place to slip away and enjoy an easy, breezy summer day. There are plenty of spots to relax, surrounded by rock walls and towering pines.

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Blanchard Springs Caverns

With triple layers of caves, the Blanchard Springs Caverns are located in the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas. The caves stay cool year-round, and the pools are a popular spot to swim in the sweltering summer months.

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White Rock Park

If you’re looking for more thrills than natural beauty, you may want to head to White Rock Park in Indiana. This swimming hole has adapted to fit high dive platforms, scuba diving, zip lining and lots of rope swings.