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ARKANSAS SWIMMING HOLES
(48 PLACES)
UPDATED 6/2009

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ON STATE MAP BELOW: BLUE = swimming hole, GREEN = road trip dip (click here for info) , RED = hot spring. Hold cursor over map tags for info(click here if you don't see this info), then click to go to detailed listing. The map location is very approximate. Use our directions with a highway map.
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LINKS TO RELATED ARKANSAS SWIMMING HOLE INFORMATION:

BOOK: SWIMMING HOLES OF THE OZARKS
Author: Wheeler, Glenn W., 2004, $18.95
Buy it at: SWIMMING HOLES OF THE OZARKS
OR SWIMMING HOLES OF THE OZARKS

ARKANSAS WATERFALLS
LINK TO OZARKS AREA MAP
LINK TO OZARKS TRAIL LOCATOR MAP
LINK TO ARKANSAS RIVER LOCATOR
OZARKS WATERFALLS AND SWIMMING HOLES

BIG SPRING PARK PONCA AREA SAINT JOE AREA OZARK N. F. NORTH UNIT AREA OLD DAVIDSONVILLE S. P.>>RT63 & RT67 LONG POOL AREA>>I-40 CROWLEYS RIDGE S. P. HALF BUSHEL MULBERRY RIVER AREA CHARLTON MILL CREEK JENKINS FERRY S. P. BENTON FARINDALE RYE COSSATOT RIVER AREA RICHLAND CREEK AREA LITTLE MISSOURI AREA RIVER BLUFF EUREKA SPRINGS AREA JASPER AREA HAW CREEK FALLS AREA JACK CREEK SARAHS HOLE>>I-40 WEST FORK AREA SPRING RIVER>>RT63 & RT67 BLUFF HOLE>>I-40 LEE CREEK AREA BUFFALO POINT

Swimmingholes.info


BENTON
(BENT)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS LITTLE ROCK, BENTON
LAT, LON lat=34.6056, lon=-92.6192(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Saline River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Local swimming hole in the Saline River. No better description.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site. Camping west of here in Ouachiuta N. F.,
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Little Rock, take I-30 southwest about 15 miles to Benton area. Take RT 5 northwest a very short distance to where RT 5 crosses the Saline River. The swimming hole is here at the bridge. [See also nearby Saline River swimming holes at "Benton", "Jenkins Ferry", "Farindale" and "Rye".]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


BIG SPRING PARK
(BIGS)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS MOUNTAIN HOME
LAT, LON lat=36.26577, lon=-92.54324(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Big Springs (beside the White River)
TYPE Spring
DESCRIPTION Riverside city park with cool, spring-fed swimming hole with spectacular swinging rope. The spring arises right by the river and flows into the river.
AREAS None
SANCTION Official
FEE None
FACILITIES Picnic tables, restroom
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Swinging rope
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING None at site. Camp nearby at Bull Shoals S. P..
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Mountain Home in the north-central part of AR (due north of Little Rock, very near the Missouri border) take RT 62 southwest about 15 miles to Cotter. After you come across the bridge into town, follow the signs to the park (turn right), Big Springs Park, it is just to the right and below the bridge, in the middle fo the town of Cotter.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/05
DATE UPDATED 5/27/2005



Swimmingholes.info


BLUFF HOLE
(BLUF)

PHOTO
PHOTO
PHOTO
TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond

Road Trip Dip
Road Trip Dip
TOWNS FORT SMITH, MULBERRY
LAT, LON lat=35.5011, lon=-94.0344(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATEARKANSAS
WATERMulberry River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole in Corps of Engineers park (no lifeguard) just off I-40. High bluffs over swimming hole in the Mulberry River. Gently flowing downstream from the river's popular whitewater. Has picnic area and toilets. You have to swim across about 30-40 feet to climb the beautiful bluffs. There are different levels from which to jump off the bluff. CHECK DEPTH BEFORE JUMPING! To swim across, must be a swimmer, or, if not a swimmer, have a good life vest and a buddy. If you jump, be careful on the Bluff and where you land.
AREASCorps of Engineers park
SANCTIONSemi-official, no lifeguards - locals go there alot.
FEENone
FACILITIESRestroom and picnic tables.
ACTIVITIESSwimming, jumping, picnicing
PHONEnone
CAMPINGNo camping at site. Camping about 30 miles north up RT 23 at Turner's Bend (best place to rent canoes for floating), or Redding N.F. Campground a bit further on and to the east of Turners Bend. All pretty Ozarks area. Others along I-40.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONSFrom Fort Smith, go 24 miles east on I-40. From I-40 take Exit 24 and go south on RT 215. Go to 4-way stop (Landmarks: Liberty Gas and Mulberry Market). This is the junction of RT 215 and RT 64. Turn east (left) on RT 64. Continue about .5 mile to signs for Bluff Hole Park.
CONFIDENCEVery confident
VERIFIEDYes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED6/09



Swimmingholes.info


BUFFALO POINT
(BUFF)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS MOUNTAIN HOME, HARRISON, CANEY
LAT, LON lat=36.07167, lon=-92.55525(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Buffalo River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Very beautiful, primo swimming hole in the clean, clear waters of Buffalo River. Sandy beach, changing rooms, restrooms. BE CAREFUL OF CURRENTS IF THE RIVER IS HIGH. BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER SITE.
AREAS Buffalo National River Area
SANCTION Official (no life guards)
FEE None
FACILITIES Changing rooms, Restrooms, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at site. There are also several camping places southwest of here in the Ozark N F.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Mountain Home in the north-central part of AR (due north of Little Rock, very near the Missouri border) take RT 62 southwest about 20 miles to Yellville (past Cotter and the "Big Spring Park" swimming hole). From Yellville take RT 14 about 15 miles south (past Caney) to signs for Buffalo Point. When in Buffalo Point park, follow the signs to the river access/boat launch. Swimming place is here in there river.

Downstream from Buffalo Point is Rush Landing, and many people canoe between the two. You can access Rush Landing by car also - go back north on RT 14 to near Caney and take RT 26 east and (hopefully) follow signs to Rush Landing. Rush Landing LAT, LON : lat=36.12452, lon=-92.54863(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. There is camping at Rush Landing and may be swimming there also. Downstream of Rush Landing is a wilderness area - remote and not much visited. There are trails out of Rush Landing and you can hike to some river access points downstream of here or you can canoe (22 miles to the next access point, Buffalo City - an overnight canoe trip for sure). Anyway, there are some swimming holes in this stretch as well which are said to be clothing optional due to the remoteness of the area.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/05
DATE UPDATED 12/24/2006



Swimmingholes.info


CHARLTON
(CHAR)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS HOT SPRINGS, CRYSTAL SPRINGS
LAT, LON lat=34.51758, lon=-93.38194(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Walnut Creek
TYPE Pond
DESCRIPTION Swim in a dammed pond on Walnut Creek. An old CCC recreation site, with bathouse. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ouachita N. F.
SANCTION Official
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Bathouse, probably picnic tables, toilets
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Hot Springs, go west on RT 270. Charlton is 3 miles past the town of Crystal Springs on RT 270. [See also "Albert Pike" swimming place nearby]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


COSSATOT RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(COSS)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS FORT SMITH, WALDRON, VANDERVOORT, WICKES
STATE AR
WATER Cossatot River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several traditional swimming holes in the Cossatot River S. P. & Natural Area. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Cossatot River S. P. & Natural Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Picnic tables, toilets at Brushy Creek Access
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There is camping and a lodge in the State Park. Also some campgrounds east of here in the Ouachita N. F.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Fort Smith, take RT 71 south about 100 miles, through Waldron, through Y City (see "Mill Creek" swimming hole here) through Acorn, Mena and Cove to Vandervoort. Then:

BRUSHY CREEK RECREATION AREA [BRUS]: Traditional swimming hole with huge gravel beach at the Brushy Creek Recreation Area in the Cossatot River S. P. & Natural Area. Also day-use facilities including picnic sites, a nature trail, restrooms and river access. A walkway high above the river provides barrier-free access on the west side. LAT, LON : lat=34.3814, lon=-94.2339(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here from Vandervoort, go about 10 miles east on RT 246 to the bridge over the Cossatot River at the the Brushy Creek Recreation Area . Just upstream from this bridge is the swimming hole.

COSSATOT FALLS [COSF]: Primitive camp site with river access, clean water and small swimming holes among rocks and cliff to jump from. LAT, LON : lat=34.31244, lon=-94.22572(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here from the Vandervoort area, continue south on RT 71 about 4 miles and turn east (left) on RT 13. Go about 5 miles on RT 13 to sign that says river access. Keep left on the main road. Here is a falls and primitive camp site and swimming holes in river.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/22/2006



Swimmingholes.info


CROWLEYS RIDGE S. P.
(CROW)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS JONESBORO, PARAGOULD, WALNUT RIDGE, WALCOTT
LAT, LON lat=36.04744, lon=-90.66539(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Unknown
TYPE Spring
DESCRIPTION Spring-fed swimming hole in state park. Also 2 swinging bridges.
AREAS Crowley's Ridge S. P.
SANCTION Unknown
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Hiking
PHONE (501)573-6751
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Jonesboro (in the northeast corner of the state), take RT 141 north 15 miles to signs for the park.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


EUREKA SPRINGS AREA
[3 PLACES]
(EURE)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS EUREKA SPRINGS, BERRYVILLE, ROCKHOUSE
STATE AR
WATER Varies, see below
TYPE Varies, see below
DESCRIPTION Several swimming places near Eureka Springs in far northwest Arkansas on Beaver Lake and in King River. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Varies, see below
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There appears to be camping at several locations on the east side of Beaver Lake.
BATHING SUITS Some optional-see below
DIRECTIONS Begin in Eureka Springs in far northwest Arkansas, then:

HOGSCALD HOLLOW [HOGS]: From a local fan: This is a special spot just outside Eureka Springs. From Eureka Springs, take RT 23 south about 8 miles, turn west (right) on RT 108 for about .5 miles then turn south (left) at the first left on RT 148 and proceed down this dirt road quite a ways. Four-wheel drive is advised but not totally necessary. After a few miles, you pass the Leap, which is a 50 foot drop into the lake. I've jumped it and it is easily the most insane thing I've done. Keep on driving to the end of the road...it dead ends right into the lake. Take the walking trails off to the left.

There are several nice swimming spots along this trail, although the best is the farthest from the parking area, about a quarter mile hike. There are nice flat limestone bluffs that are about 10 feet out of the water...great for diving in. The best times to enjoy this spot are in the late spring and early fall, when the boat traffic is not as insane as it is in midsummer. People used to skinny dip here and word got out and over to the marina. Eventually all the boats meandered over to the cove, now known as Hogscald Hollow, to check the nekkid people out and watch people jump from the ridiculously high Leap I mentioned before. It's not quite as quiet and secluded as it used to be. Petitions are going around to close the cove to boats completely. This is a fantastic, Mark Twain-style place.

LAT, LON lat=36.31222, lon=-93.81986(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP

THE CLIFFS [CLIF]: From a local fan: Also on Beaver Lake. Take RT 62 west out of Eureka Springs to the SECOND RT 187 left turn, turn left. Go about 2 miles then right on RT 113, directly before Beaver Dam. The second left is a park area where there used to be camping sites available, but the Corps of Engineers shut it down because all the kids that hang out here at night drove the tourists away. It's still a great spot. Drive all the way to the rear of the park where there are still spots that appear to be camping sites. Park here and follow one of the many trails through the trees to the water's edge.

You can either take the high trail to the top of the cliffs or the low route to the "beach" type lounging area. Even though there are signs warning against it, many people jump from the bluffs into the water 25 feet below. The water is relatively clean and stays cool all summer long. The cliffs skirt along the banks and the "beach" area is made of low limestone cliffs that are always cool to the touch and very nice to nap on. Another local favorite.

LAT, LON lat=36.43072, lon=-93.85814(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP

TRIGGER GAP [TRIG]: From a local fan: This spot is on the Kings River, also outside Eureka Springs. Take RT 62 east to Berryville then RT 221 southwest several miles until you cross the over bridge over the Kings River. Then turn left on Star Lane (dirt road). Follow the signs to the Kings River Outfitters. Ernie who owns the place charges $3 to let people park at his canoe rental office during peak season. However, it's not to difficult to find another spot elsewhere to park. (An old bridge used to run across at this point of the river) The water gurgles about the old foundation where the bridge once was which creates some mild current. I would advise supervision of small children here. However, the bank is very safe and the water is cool and clear year round.

LAT, LON lat=36.30833, lon=-93.66250(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP

CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/6/2003



Swimmingholes.info


FARINDALE
(FARI)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS LITTLE ROCK, BENTON, SHERIDAN, FORDYCE
LAT, LON lat=34.11557, lon=-92.40606(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Saline River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole in the Saline River at Farindale. No better description.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unknown
FEE Unknwon
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site. Camping Mark's Mill Battleground Historical Monument southeast of here.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Little Rock, take I-30 southwest about 15 miles to Benton area. From Benton, take RT 35 southeast about 17 miles to Sheridan. From Sheridan, take RT 167 south about 15 miles to Farindale, where RT 167 crosses the Saline River. Swimming place is in Saline River here. No better directions. [See also nearby Saline River swimming holes at "Benton", "Jenkins Ferry", "Farindale" and "Rye".]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


HALF BUSHEL
(HALF)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS FORT SMITH, CLARKSVILLE, SCRANTON
LAT, LON lat=35.26658, lon=-93.50753(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:aproximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Big Shoal Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole at foot of rock cliff. The cliff is 40-50 feet high with a hole in it that is said to be about the size of a half bushel.
AREAS Ozark N. F. - South Unit
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, maybe jumping
PHONE none
CAMPING There are several Ozark N. F. campgrounds just south of here.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Fort Smith, go east on I-40 about 50 miles to Exit 57 near the town of Clarksville. From here, take RT 109 south about 15 miles (through Scranton) to Midway. In Midway go east (left) on RT 22 for about .5 miles and turn south (right) on Sorghum Hollow Rd.. About 2 miles down Sorghum Hollow Rd. (in the National Forest), you will come upon Shoal Creek bridge. "Stop in the middle and look about 100 yards to your left. You will see the rock cliff about 40 to 50 feet high. Look about 25 feet up the cliff and you will see a hole the size of a,,,,,,,,,,,,you guessed it. Half Bushel." The swimming hole is here.
CONFIDENCE Pretty Certain
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 12/27/2006



Swimmingholes.info


HAW CREEK FALLS AREA
[2 PLACES]
(HAWA)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS RUSSELLVILLE, DOVER, PELSOR
STATE AR
WATER Haw Creek/Big Piney Creek
TYPE Creek/Falls
DESCRIPTION Haw Creek Falls is a National Forest campsite near an old abandoned town of Ft. Douglas (old school house and cemetery). Great swimming holes and picture spots. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark N. F. - Central Unit
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at Haw Creek Falls site.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Russellville (on I-40 about 70 miles northwest of Little Rock) take RT 7 north (through Dover and past the Long Pool Area swimming place) about 65 miles total on RT 7 to Pelsor (also known as Sand Gap). In Pelsor, take RT 123 southwest through Dillen toward the Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, then:

FORT DOUGLAS BRIDGE [FORT]: Swimming hole in Big Piney Creek under old steel truss bridge. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=35.67694, lon=-93.235(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. You cross this bridge after you go through Dillen on RT 123 and just before you get to the Haw Creek Falls campground (below). Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

HAW CREEK FALLS [HAWC]: Great swimming hole in Haw Creek at bottom of scenic falls (water a bit shallow) and good picture spot. PHOTO , PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=35.6772, lon=-93.2554(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. The falls are at the Haw Creek Falls campground (above) just across the road from the vault toilets. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


JACK CREEK
(JACK)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS OZARK, BOONEVILLE, SUGAR GROVE
LAT, LON lat=35.034, lon=-93.847(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Jack Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Very nice, small park, with place to swim and jump from cliff (25-30 feet high) at the Jack Creek Recreation Area.
AREAS Ouachita N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Ozark (on I-40 about 100 miles northwest of Little Rock) take RT 23 south through Booneville then RT 116 southeast to Jack Creek Recreation Area. The swimming hole is here.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/8/2003



Swimmingholes.info


JASPER AREA
[3 PLACES]
(JASA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS HARRISON, JASPER
STATE AR
WATER Buffalo River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several swimming places very close together in the beautiful, blue-green Buffalo River near Jasper. BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER SITE. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Buffalo National River Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilities at camgrounds
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at Ozark, Erbie and Carver National Park Campgrounds
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From From Harrison (in Northwestern AR) (set odometer) take RT 7 south toward Jasper, then:

PRUITT [PRUI]: Swimming hole in the Buffalo River with a high bluff on far side for jumping. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=36.06139, lon=-93.138889(source: Measured)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: Going south on RT 7, about 12 miles from Harrsion (7 miles before Jasper), there is a bridge over the Buffalo River. Just past this bridge, on the right is a ranger station. Go into the Ranger Station and park in the rear lot area. Walk down the path to the river - the swimming hole is here. (There is another swimming hole called Pruitt on the north side of this bridge - BEFORE you get to the bridge coming south on RT 7, turn left into a road that winds down to the river - a swimming hole is here also.) Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/2009.

OZARK CAMPGROUND [OZAR]: Very nice, highly recommended swimming hole and fun kids jumping place in the Buffalo River at the Ozark Campground, which is a Buffalo National River campground by the National Park Service. There is a bluff on the far side with several levels for jumping. PHOTO , PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=36.065, lon=-93.159167(source: Measured)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: Continuing south on RT 7 past Pruitt (above) you will soon come to a sign for the Ozark Campground (before Jasper) - turn west (right) and go abot a mile on a dirt road that is sometimes pretty steep (but a car can make it in a lower gear) to the campground. The swimming hole is near the rear of the campground circle. (Nice place to camp but very crowded on summer weekends - no reservations). (If you go a little ways south on RT 7 from here, still not to Jasper, you will see a sign for Erbie Campground. There is swimming here in the Buffalo River also but it is a long dirt road back there and the swimming hole is not as nice as at Ozark or Pruitt (above), so I would only go back there if I needed to camp.) Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/2009.

BRADLEY PARK [BRAD]: Pretty nice, easily accessible swimming place in the Buffalo River right in a town park in Jasper. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=36.00861, lon=-93.190278(source: Measured)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: Continue south on RT 7 into Jasper. Near the courthouse, turn right onto Clark St. and continue to the park at the end of Clark St.. Keep to the right in the park and go down to the river near the picnic pavilion. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/2009.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


JENKINS FERRY S. P.
(JENK)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS LITTLE ROCK, BENTON, SHERIDAN
LAT, LON lat=34.21094, lon=-92.54858(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Saline River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole in the Saline River at State Historical Park. Don't know if this is an official swimming place or not. No better description.
AREAS Jenkins Ferry State Historical Monument
SANCTION Unknown
FEE Unknwon
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site. Camping west of here in Ouachiuta N. F.,
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Little Rock, take I-30 southwest about 15 miles to Benton area. From Benton, take RT 35 southeast about 17 miles to Sheridan. From Sheridan, take RT 46 southwest about 10 miles to sign for state park. Swimming place is in Saline River here. No better directions. [See also nearby Saline River swimming holes at "Benton", "Jenkins Ferry", "Farindale" and "Rye".]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


LEE CREEK AREA
[2 PLACES]
(LEEA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS FORT SMITH, CEDARVILLE, NATURAL DAM
STATE AR
WATER Lee Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Popular swimming holes in Lee Creek in the Ozark National Forest. For detailes, see DIRECTIONS below. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark National Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping, zip line
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING North of here at Devils Den S. P. (Gravel road from Lee Creek to Devils Den)
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Fort Smith/Van Buren, take RT 59 north through Cedarville then take RT 59/220 north a short way until you come to the split of RT 220 and RT 59. Then:

NATURAL DAM [NATU]: This hole in Lee Creek is managed by the US Forest Service, info can be found here . Picnic tables and toilets. Semi-official area, no lifeguards. PHOTO , PHOTO. This report from a visitor in 8/10: "The water here has been pretty stagnant for most of the summer, so it's not the best place to go late in the season. However, I bet this place really rocks during late spring and eary summer. In addition to the big hole located at the dam itself, there are some nicely maintained trails that go downstream to what look like great swimming holes when the water is running."

To get here from the split of RT 220 and RT 59, keep left and take RT 59 north. Go to the town of Natural Dam then turn west (left) off RT 59 in Natural Dam (it's the only intersection in town). Go about .25 miles down the road to Lee Creek and the swimming hole. In addition to the swimming hole, there are some very nice trails and picnic sites here. LAT, LON lat=35.64987, lon=-94.39775(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 8/10.

LEE CREEK [LEEC]:Huge, popular (unofficial) swimming hole at large rock in Lee Creek. Zip line in place sometimes! See photos. This report from a visitor in 8/10: "Definitely a cool place to visit. In addition to the great water, some enterprising soul has installed a zip line from the cliffs above and you can jump from the top of the cliff (about a 40 foot drop to the water) and ride the zip line to where the water is deep enough to drop in. Maybe not the safest thing in the world, but my kids all went on it and we had a great day there." PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO.

To get here from the split of RT 220 and RT 59, keep right and take RT 220 north. Go about 10 miles on RT 220, then, as you approach the bridge over Lee Creek, there is a turn off on the east side (right side) just before the bridge that goes down to a large parking area and the swimming hole. The swimming hole can be seen from the bridge. LAT, LON lat=35.70333, lon=-94.32722(source: measured) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 8/10.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 8/10



Swimmingholes.info


LITTLE MISSOURI AREA
[4 PLACES]
(LITT)

LINK TO PHOTOS BY GLENN LUTTRELLLINK TO LOCAL AREA MAP
TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS GLENWOOD, LANGLEY
LAT, LON lat=34.3725, lon= -93.87944(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Little Missouri River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several swimming places in the Little Missouri River in the Ouachita N. F. near the Albert Pike Campground along the Little Missouri Trail. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. For details about the hikes: HIKING INFO . SNAKE ALERT AREA [See also "CHARLTON" swimming place nearby]
AREAS Ouachita N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Probably picnic tables, toilets in campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Nearby Albert Pike Campground closed due to tragic flood in 6/2010.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Hot Springs, go southwest on RT 70 to Salem, then west on RT 84 to Langley. In Langley, go north on RT 369 into the N. F. to the Albert Pike Campground. Then:

ALBERT PIKE [ALBE]: There is a swimming place is in the river near the Albert Pike Campground. Albert Pike Campground closed due to tragic flood in 6/2010. The swimming place is in the "A" loop in the campground. LAT, LON lat=34.37583, lon=-93.87689(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP.

WINDING STAIRS [WIND]: There is another swimming place just south of here on the Little Missouri River in an area called the "Winding Stairs" where there are many cascades and swimming holes. (See link to photos, above - see local area map, above). You can hike here along the Little Missouri Trail (south from Albert Pike - about 3 miles hike one way). LAT, LON lat=34.35467, lon=-93.90667(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To go part way by car: From the Albert Pike campground take Forest Rd. 106/County Rd 82 west for about 2 miles. There is a well marked parking area on the left that says Winding Stairs trail. (There may also be a swimming place along this road BEFORE you get to Winding Stairs - may be known locally as a "Blue Hole".) There is a restroom at the parking area. Hike about 1.5 miles, four river crossings on the trail, and you will be at "the stairs." There are some very deep pools at the base, and tubing down the stairs is fun.

LITTLE MISSOURI FALLS [LITF]: Another popular swimming place very near here is the Little Missouri Falls. (See link to photos, above - see local area map, above). You can hike here along the Little Missouri Trail about 6.3 miles. (north from Albert Pike Campground Area B). By car from Albert Pike Campground, go north on RT 369 about 2.5 miles then west (left) on Crooked Creek Rd for about 4.5 miles then west (left) on Mine Creek Rd about .75 miles to the left turn-off to Little Missouri Falls Day Use Area. LAT, LON lat=34.42458, lon=-93.92806(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here by car: from Albert Pike Campground, take RT 369 north (becomes dirt road) which becomes FR 73. Continue on FR 73 north, turn left onto FR 43, then left on FR 25 for short distance to the Little Missouri Falls parking lot. There are signs along the way.

BLUE HOLE QUARRY [BLUQ]: NOTE: We received a note in 8/10 that this place is now closed - we lost another place due to trash left around bu visitors.

Kown locally as the "Blue Hole", it is a quarry that has filled with beautiful aquamarine water. This from a visitor:" It is about 100 feet deep at the deepest point and about 600 feet by 375 feet wide, if not bigger. This is private property. It belongs to an old mining company that moved on when the quarry filled with water. I have been going there for 20+ years. As long as we keep it clean, no one seems to have a problem with us swimming and cliff jumping there. There are several cliffs that you can jump off of, from 5 feet to 85 feet." PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. LAT, LON lat=34.3679, lon=-93.8137(source: Topozone) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP Here are two ways to get there from Albert Pike Campground. The first one has more rough road than the second but the second is longer:

First way: Go north on RT 369 from Albert Pike Campground, keeping right onto Polk Creek Rd. In about .5 miles turn east (right) on FR 99. It is a dirt road for a while then it becomes more of a rocky trail but is passable with a high clearance 2 wheel drive vehicle/truck. Once the road opens up again, continue to a turn off on your right (south) (a total of about 5 miles from RT 369). There will be many atv trails down this road, but none big enough for a truck. Also, you will be able to see the remains of an old yellow gate.

Second way: Go north on RT 369 from Albert Pike Campground, keeping right onto Polk Creek Rd. and go about 4 miles (past the turn for FR 99) then turn east (right) on Fancy Hill Rd. (RT 240 / CR 4). Take this road about 5 miles to Fancy Hill. Turn right (south) on FR 99 (the turnoff for FR 99 is in the middle of a very sharp turn in RT 240. Also, FR 99 may not be marked as FR 99 at RT 240 - don't know the name) Once you take that sharp turn, you will go onto FR 517 then come to a Y in the road - stay to the right at that point to continue on FR 99. It is a total of about 2.5 miles west on FR 99 from RT 240 to where you come to the turn off to the left (south) and you will be able to see the remains of an old yellow gate.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 2/20/2008



Swimmingholes.info


LONG POOL AREA
[2 PLACES]
(LONG)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS RUSSELLVILLE, DOVER
STATE AR
WATER Big Piney Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Several swimming places in Big Piney Creek in the Ozark N.F.. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark N. F. - Central Unit
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilites in Long Pool Campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at Long Pool
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Russellville (on I-40 about 130 miles northwest of Little Rock) take scenic RT 7 north through Dover to where RT 164 goes west (not east) then go west 4 miles on RT 164. Here you will see signs here to Long Pool Recreation Area. [See also "Ben Hur Area" nearby swimming holes.]. Then:

LONG POOL [LONP]: Big, natural pool in Big Piney Creek in Ozark N.F. - Central Unit. PHOTO . SNAKE ALERT AREA. National Forest developed camping and other facilities at the site. LAT, LON : lat=35.55, lon=-93.1622 (source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here, from Long Pool Rd. (above), continue on FS1804 to the recreation area at the end of the road. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09. walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
Road Trip Dip
Road Trip Dip


SLANT ROCK [SLAN]: Swimming hole at very large slanted rock that is partially submerged in Big Piney Creek in Ozark N.F. - Central Unit on the road to Long Pool. LINK TO AERIAL PHOTO. There is a rope swing here that you can use that will get you anywhere from 5 to 25 feet off the water. PHOTO . The swimming hole is about 100 feet across, 300 feet long and 20 feet deep. SNAKE ALERT AREA. National Forest developed camping and other facilities at Long Pool. LAT, LON : lat=35.5365, lon=-93.1521(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP.

To get here, on the road to Long Pool, about .9 miles before you get to Long Pool, there is a large unmarked parking spot on the left side of the road (at 35.5367, -93.1520). You will know you have the right location by the angle the (wide) trail leaves the parking area. The trail runs basically parallel back along the road. The rest of the parking areas either allow for vehicle access, or they turn 90 degrees off the main road. But, with the number of locals that visit this swimming hole, the parking place should be easy to spot. Follow this trail about a .25 mile hike to slant rock. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/2009.
CONFIDENCE Very Condfident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


MILL CREEK
(MILL)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS FORT SMITH, WALDRON, Y CITY
LAT, LON lat=34.72911, lon=-94.01075(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Mill Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION NOTE: We received an email that this place was closed in 6/2008 - better check before you go. If you find it open, please tell us.

National Forest campground and swimming area. No better description.SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ouachita N. F.
SANCTION Official
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Probably picnic tables, toilets
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at site. Also some other campgrounds east of here in the Ouachita N. F.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Fort Smith, take RT 71 south, through Waldron, to Y City. In Y City, turn east on RT 270 and go about 4 to signs for the Mill Creek campground. Swimming hole is in this campground. [See also "Cossatot River" swimming hole nearby.]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


MULBERRY RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(MULL)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS FORT SMITH, OZARK
STATE AR
WATER Mulberry River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION There are said to be several real old fashioned swimming holes in this section of the Mulberry River. No better description. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark N. F. - Central Unit
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Both at Redding and Wolf Pen
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Fort Smith, go east on I-40 about 30 miles to the town of Ozark. From Ozark, go north on RT 23 into the Ozark N.F. and to the area of the Mulberry River. Turn east (right) from RT 23 onto RT 215, drive along the Mulberry River, then:

REDDING [REDD]: A National Forest campground that is also a popular access point for Mulberry River canoe trips. Nice river access point with tables and toilets but very busy on summer weekends (Wolf Pen, below, is quieter). PHOTO , PHOTO . SNAKE ALERT AREA. LAT, LON : lat=35.68194, lon=-93.78694(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here, continue east on RT 215 to the signs for Redding Rec Area. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

WOLF PEN [WOLF]: A National Forest campground that also has a swimming hole (and small canoe launch) on the Mulberry River. PHOTO , PHOTO . SNAKE ALERT AREA. LAT, LON : lat=35.67556, lon=-93.63027(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here, continue east on RT 215 to the signs for Wolf Pen Rec Area. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


OLD DAVIDSONVILLE S. P.
(OLDD)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond

Road Trip Dip
Road Trip Dip
TOWNS JONESBORO, WALNUT RIDGE, POCAHONTAS
LAT, LON lat=36.15269, lon=-91.05278(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Black River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming from a dock in the Black River.
AREAS Old Davidsonville S. P.
SANCTION Official
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Hiking, Boating
PHONE (501)892-4708
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Jonesboro (in the northeast corner of the state) , take RT 63 to the northwest past Walnut Ridge to Black Rock. In Black Rock, take RT 62 north to RT 361 north then 6 miles more to the state park. Swim from the dock in the state park.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


OZARK N. F. NORTH UNIT AREA
[3 PLACES]
(OZAR)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS MOUNTAIN HOME, MOUNTAIN VIEW
STATE AR
WATER Sylamore Creek
TYPE Varies, see below
DESCRIPTION Varies, see below. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark N. F. North Unit
SANCTION Varies - see below
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilities in Blanchard Springs Cavern S. P.
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There is camping at the Blanchard Springs Cavern S. P. and several of these sites in the Ozark N F.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Mountain Home in the north-central part of AR (due north of Little Rock, very near the Missouri border) take RT 5 southeast about 40 miles to Sylamore. From Sylamore, take RT 14 west into the Ozark N. F. Then:

BLANCHARD SPRINGS CAVERNS S. P. [BLAN]: This is on RT 14 just west of Sylamore. LAT, LON lat=35.96344, lon=-92.17117(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP The caverns are pretty spectacular. The springs themselves are scenic and cool PHOTO OF SPRINGS but not really a swimming place. If you follow the swimming signs in the park, you will come to an offical swimming place with beach and changing rooms PHOTO OF MAIN HOLE - popular but still not the best. The best swimming hole is in the campground, very apparent on your right as you get to the beginning of the loop for sites 16-31. PHOTO OF CAMPGROUND SWIMMING HOLE . Both swimming places are official and there is a day use fee of $3.00 for both swimming places. Camping at the site. Phone number for the caverns is (888) 757-2246. Very confident. Verified 5/05. Updated 5/27/05.

GUNNER POOL [GUNN]: Two swimming places. One is behind campsite #23 PHOTO 1 , with a beach and gradual entry. Gunner Pool itself is behind campsite #17, has no beach and is quite deep - behind a dam. PHOTO 2 . Camping at the site. LAT, LON lat=35.99222, lon=-92.21092(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP Continue on RT 14 west past Blanchard Springs Caverns and through the village of Fifty Six, then go 4 miles north (right) on CR 26 (FR 1102) to signs for Gunner Pool recreation area. Very confident. Verified 5/05. Updated 5/27/05.

BARKSHED [BARK]: Continue north on FR 1102 (CR 26) about 4 miles then turn left on CR 1113 (unknown Forest road) toward the town of Big Flat for about 2 miles to the Barkshed Rec Area, which is probably signed. LAT, LON lat=36.01867, lon=-92.25003 (source: Topozone ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP The swimming hole is a hike from this campground. No better directions or description. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 5/27/05.
CONFIDENCE Varies, see above
VERIFIED Varies, see above
DATE UPDATED 5/27/2005



Swimmingholes.info


PONCA AREA
[2 PLACES]
(PONA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond

Road Trip Dip
TOWNS JASPER, PONCA
STATE AR
WATER Buffalo River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming holes in the clean, clear waters of Buffalo River. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Buffalo National River Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES All facilities at Steel Creek campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at Steel Creek campground and Lost Valley campground in the Ozark N F.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Harrison in the north-west part of AR (very near the Missouri border) take RT 7 south about 20 miles to Jasper (see JASPER AREA swimming holes) then take RT 74 west about 11 miles toward Ponca, then:

STEEL CREEK [STEE]: Swimming places in the Buffalo River in the Steel Creek (National Forest) campground. Many areas behind the campsites may be shallow, but a good deep place is in the river near the horse camping section of the campground, below some riffles in the river. May have to swim here across the river for the best gravel beach area. PHOTO , PHOTO . Camping at site. LAT, LON lat=36.03885, lon=-93.3358(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here, go west on RT 74 until you see the sign for the Steel Creek campground. Go to the horse camp area, the swimming hole is here in the river. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

PONCA BRIDGE [PONC]: Swimming place at low water bridge in the Buffalo River. Camping nearby at Steel Creek or Lost Valley (National Forest) campgrounds. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=36.02111, lon=-93.35472(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here, continue west on RT 74 then turn south on RT 43 at Ponca. After you turn south on RT 43, make an immediate left on a road the goes down to the river at the low water bridge. The swimmming place is here at the bridge. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/09
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


RICHLAND CREEK AREA
[2 PLACES]
(RICA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS RUSSELLVILLE, WITTS SPRINGS
STATE AR
WATER Richland Creek/ Falling Water Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Deep, cold swimming holes in N.F.. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ozark N. F. - Central Unit
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Picnic tables, vault toilets at Richland Creek Campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at Richland Creek Campground, pretty rustic, rough road, no RV's.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Russellville (on I-40 about 70 miles northwest of Little Rock) take RT 7 north about 40 miles (past the turn off to "Long Pool Area" swimming hole) to Pelsor (also known as Sand Gap). At Pelsior, take RT 16 east through Ben Hur, then:

FALLING WATER FALLS [FALL]: Swimming place in Falling Water Creek at base of wide, beautiful water fall. PHOTO . Camping at Richland Creek (below). LAT, LON lat=35.721944, lon=-92.9494(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here from Ben Hur, continue a short way on RT 16 then turn east (left) on CR68/FR 1205. Go about 2.25 miles (gravel road) then park in a turn out on the right - the falls are visible from the road. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

RICHLAND CREEK [RICH]: Swimming place in Richland Creek by large boulders in N.F. campground. Deep, cold swimming hole at Richland Creek Campground. (Other holes are said to be along Richland Creek on the trail that goes along this creek to Richland Falls and Twin Falls. To follow the trail to more swimming holes, park at the lower campground and take the trail west from here. It is about 2.5 miles of rugged hiking (crossing creeks several times) to go all the way to the falls. (May be swimming at Twin Falls too, not sure. See ARKANSAS WATERFALLS for more information.) SNAKE ALERT AREACamping at site. LAT, LON lat=35.79747, lon=-92.93211 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. To get here from Falling Water Falls (above), continue north on CR68/FR 1205 (gravel road, sometimes rough) to the campground. Swimming hole is in campground. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 6/09.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


RIVER BLUFF
(RIVE)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS GLENWOOD, LANGLEY
LAT, LON lat=34.63972, lon= -93.62583(source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Ouachita River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming place in the Ouachita river at the River Bluff Float Camp; also a put in place for river canoe trips. Camp is well shaded, with high bluff over swimming place. SNAKE ALERT AREA
AREAS Ouachita N. F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Probably picnic tables, toilets in campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Hot Springs, go west on RT 270 [past "Charlton" swimming place] and, just past Mt. Ida, go east (right) on RT 27. In a short distance, go north (left) on County Road 59 (if you get to Sweethome on Rt 27, you've gone much too far). Continue on CR 59 until you see signs for the River Bluff Float Camp (I think). You can swim in the river at this camp.
CONFIDENCE Uncertain on directions
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 3/4/2002



Swimmingholes.info


RYE
(RYE)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS LITTLE ROCK, BENTON, SHERIDAN, FORDYCE, WARREN
LAT, LON lat=33.70097, lon=-92.02650(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Saline River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole in the Saline River at Rye. No better description.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unknown
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING No camping at site. Camping Mark's Mill Battleground Historical Monument northwest of here.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Little Rock, take I-30 southwest about 15 miles to Benton area. From Benton, take RT 35 southeast about 17 miles to Sheridan. From Sheridan, take RT 167 south to Fordyce. From Fordyce, take RT 8 southeast to Warren. From Warren, take RT 63 (or is it RT 15 ?) north to Rye where the road crosses the Saline River. Swimming place is in Saline River here. No better directions. [See also nearby Saline River swimming holes at "Benton", "Jenkins Ferry", "Farindale" and "Rye".]
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2001



Swimmingholes.info


SAINT JOE AREA
[4 PLACES]
(STJA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond

Road Trip Dip
TOWNS HARRISON, ST. JOE, GILBERT
STATE AR
WATER Buffalo River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Very beautiful swimming holes in the clean, clear waters of Buffalo River. BE CAREFUL OF CURRENTS IF THE RIVER IS HIGH. BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER SITE. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Buffalo National River Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Varies - see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Very nicely developed camping at Tyler Bend.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Harrison (in the north-central part of AR) take RT 65 southeast to St. Joe (all directions below are from St. Joe), then:

WOOLUM [WOOL]: Very beautiful, often very quiet, swimming hole in the Buffalo River with a high bluff on the far side. This is very near the river access point and camping area marked as "Woolum" on the Buffalo National River brochure map. This is a very primitive camping area, with no tables or drinking water and vault toilets. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=35.97083, lon=-92.87944(source: Measured)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: From RT 65 in St. Joe, take RT 374 west for about 7 miles, keeping right at the fork (turns into dirt road but car accessible) to the Woolum river access point. When you get down near the river, go left to the primitive camping area, also near the river. The swimming hole is at the far end of the camping area. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

GILBERT BAR [GILB]: Water play place (pretty shallow) at gravel bar in the Buffalo River at the town of Gilbert. LAT, LON lat=35.9866, lon=-92.7150(source: DeLorme)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: Go south on RT 65 from St. Joe, then, before you cross the Buffalo River turn east (left) on RT 333. Go to Gilbert; follow signs to Gilbert Bar. The swimming hole is in the Buffalo River in Gilbert. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

GRINDERS FERRY [GRIN]: Water play place (pretty shallow except for one deep area) at canoe put in the Buffalo River. Not the best swimming hole in the area, but very close to RT 65. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=35.9847, lon=-92.7444(source: DeLorme)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: Continue south on RT 65, then, immediately after you cross the Buffalo River going south on RT 65, the road to Grinders Ferry is signed your left. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.

TYLER BEND [TYLE]: Very nicely developed campground (reservations available) with canoe access and good swimming hole in a bend in the Buffalo River. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=35.9845, lon=-92.7647(source: DeLorme)(accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP To get here: After you cross the Buffalo River and pass Grinders Ferry going south on RT 65, see signs to Tyler Bend on your right. When you get to Tyler Bend area, go to the parking area for river access, walk to the river and then walk to the left a bit along the river bank to get to the deep place across from the high bluff. Very confident. Verified 5/09. Updated 6/09.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/00
DATE UPDATED 6/09



Swimmingholes.info


SARAHS HOLE
(SARA)

PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS CONWAY, GREENBRIER
LAT, LON lat=35.32575, lon=-92.38986(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Cadron Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Local swimming hole at commercial outfitter's place on Cadron Creek. Also canoe put-in. No better description.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE $3.00 Access Fee on Weekends
FACILITIES Restrooms, Picnic Area, Pavilion, Camping Sites
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Canoeing, Kayaking, Tubing, Climbing, Hiking
PHONE 501-679-5050
CAMPING Camping at site. No hookups.
BATHING SUITS Encouraged
DIRECTIONS From Conway (on I-40 about 25 miles northwest of Little Rock) take RT 65 north to Greenbrier. From Greenbrier keep going north on RT 65 until you cross Cadron Creek bridge. Go 1.5 miles more and take a right on Pinnacle Springs Road. Go on Pinncale Springs Rd. (across Old RT 65) for a total of 1.8 miles then go left on Cargile Road. In a short disctance, Cargile Springs Rd bears left and you will see a sign for an outfitter and a small road on the right. The swimming hole is down this road at the bottom of the hill.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED Partially, 5/05
DATE UPDATED 5/27/2005



Swimmingholes.info


SPRING RIVER
(SPRI)

NO PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
TOWNS JONESBORO, WALNUT RIDGE, HARDY, MAMMOTH SPRING
LAT, LON lat=36.3897, lon=-91.5269(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP
STATE AR
WATER Spring River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Spring River begins in Missouri and enters Arkansas where Mammoth Spring flows into it, adding about nine million gallons of water per hour. Here the river begins a much higher flow, very popular for tubing, canoeing and swimming in the occasional deep spots. There are local outfitters with canoe and tube rentals. The Spring River is one of Arkansas's more accessible streams, with RT 63 paralleling much of its length. Major public access points include Cold Springs and Dam #3 off RT 63 between Hardy and Mammoth Spring, Bayou Access off RT 289, Hardy Beach, the Wilford Launch Area off RT 58, two put-in/take-out points at Ravenden, and a final launch site at Imboden. No better informaiton about where the deeper spots are.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Canoeing, Tubing
PHONE None
CAMPING Mammoth Springs S.P. does not have camping. Many Islands is a private campground right on the river with tubing, canoeing, etc. To get here , take RT 71 west off of RT 63 about half way between Hardy and Mammoth Springs.
BATHING SUITS Encouraged
DIRECTIONS From Jonesboro (in the northeast corner of the state) , take RT 63 to the northwest past Walnut Ridge and Black Rock (past "Old Davidsonville S.P." swimming hole) to Hardy. Between Hardy and Mammoth Springs, RT 63 parallels Spring River with several access points as described above.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 1/23/2005



Swimmingholes.info


WEST FORK AREA
[3 PLACES]
(WEST)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
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walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
Road Trip Dip
Road Trip Dip
TOWNS FAYETTEVILLE, WEST FORK
STATE AR
WATER West Fork White River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming holes in river. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Varies-see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING At Devil's Den State Park, southwest of here.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Fayetteville, go south on I-540 a short distance to the exit for RT 170 at the town of West Fork. Then:

WRECK HOLE [WREC]: Hole where the West Fork White River parallels railroad tracks through town. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO .This report from a visitor in 2010: "This is truly a magnificent swimming hole. One of the best I've been to in.. well.... forever. It's spring fed, and as such stays cool even in the extremely hot weather. The water was clear enough that you could see the bottom in most places, and there is a huge rock that juts out over the water that you can jump off of. It's about 10 feet down to the water and it wore my kids out for three days straight. We kept going back for more. It's also mostly unused, as we were there a total of 14 hours or so over three days and only ever saw four other people, all of whom were very nice. This place is a must visit for those looking for a clean, cool place to get some relief from the heat and have some fun."

To get here, take RT 170 east into the town of West Fork. Right after the curve in the road, go east (left) on Main Street. Go one block east on Main Street, then go north (left) on Campbell Rd.. You will reach a Y in the road where Cemetery Rd. forks off to the left - stay to the right and keep going on Campbell Rd.. Just over the hill from here you will see two small gravel turnouts on either side of the road. At the gravel turnouts there is a small foot trail that crosses the railroad tracks and descends to the swimming hole. If you get to the quarry on the left side of the road you've gone too far. LAT, LON: lat=35.93570, lon=-94.18802(source: map) (accuracy:approximate), LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. Very confident. Verified by another. Updated 8/10.

RIVERSIDE PARK [RIVE]: A low dam across the West Fork of the White River creates a small reservoir for municipal water with a park on one side and limestone cliffs for jumping on the other. The swimming hole is very lively in the summer with lots of children & families. LAT, LON :lat=35.92753, lon=-94.18397(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP. Has park benches, portable johns, picnic shelter, walking trails. Swimming, canoeing (at high water upstream or down) jumping. To get here go east on RT 170 though West Fork then take a right just before the bridge over the West Fork White River into park parking lot. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 12/28/2006.

CEDAR FLATS [CEDA]: Unofficial swimming place southwest of West Fork, just outside of Devil's Den State Park. This report from a visitor in 8/10: " I was referred here by a kid working at the cafe' in Devil's Den State Park. He said the water was a little low this time of year and he was right. Still, my daughters loved swimming there and it only takes two minutes to get there from the park. Despite not being spring fed the water was cool and clear. Has a nice little rope swing. Large rock shelves that you can perch on. Looks like this place would be truly magnificent when full of water. There are lots of camping areas here, though they were all pretty trashy. Looks like the locals don't pick up after themselves as there are a lot of empty been cans and whatnot scattered about. Otherwise it would be a beautiful place to camp, with smooth dirt areas for tents and lots of fire pits already dug / rocked. It's up under the canopy of huge cedar trees so lots of shade and nice cool breezes blowing through the branches. No facilities of any kind." LAT, LON: lat=35.77012, lon=-94.27518(source: map) (accuracy:general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP MAP.

To get here from West Fork, take RT 170 to the west then south and follow the signs to Devil's Den State Park. In the park, take the gravel road past Campgroud E. Proceed out of the park and over the single lane bridge (Ellis Creek?). Take the two next left turns off this road (dirt drives, not paved). to the Cedar Flats swimming hole. Verified by another. Updated 8/10.
CONFIDENCE Varies- see above
VERIFIED Varies- see above
DATE UPDATED 8/10


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