It’s July in the Natural State, and the cool, pristine streams of the great outdoors are calling. Pack a picnic, load up the family, and hit the road in search of the perfect swimming hole.
The River Valley is rich with an abundance of natural tributaries perfect for escaping the summer heat. A local favorite is Lee Creek, just north of Cedarville along Highway 220, part of the same waterway that spills over the scenic dam at Devil’s Den State Park.
Just before crossing the bridge, turn right onto a dirt path that leads to the creek bank. Adventurous swimmers can leap from a twelve-foot rock bluff into emerald-green waters. Prefer to ease in? Follow the natural rock slope to wade gently into the stream.
After cooling off, cross to the opposite bank and follow the shore just a few steps upstream to a second pool where a rope swing hangs from the raised creekbank. Launch into the air, let go at the peak, and enjoy a thrilling ten-foot plunge into deep water. Do-overs are highly recommended.
Another great swimming hole can be reached by heading east on I-40 to the Highway 23 exit, also known as the Pig Trail. This National Scenic Byway winds north to the Mulberry River, one of Arkansas’ designated wild and scenic rivers, where countless swimming spots await.
No picnic? No problem. Swing by Turner Bend Outfitter for a bag of their “Almost Famous” deli sandwiches. This iconic establishment has fueled adventurers since 1911.
Cross the rustic bridge and decide—do you travel downstream to choose your access point, or venture upstream where even more options await? Of course, you could always explore both. Downstream spots are typically less crowded. To reach them, turn west on Shores Lake Road. The well-maintained gravel road runs alongside the Mulberry River and offers several side paths to the riverbank.
The Campbell Cemetery access is an excellent location for families. The wide slab rock shoreline is perfect for lounging between swims, and it offers a clear view for parents to watch the kids. Bring floatation devices for everyone to enjoy the gentle waves formed as water cascades over the river’s rock ledges.
For more swimming options, head upriver by continuing north on the Pig Trail to Scenic Highway 15. Be sure to stop at the pullouts bordering the road to read the posted kiosks documenting the area’s intriguing history.
Redding Recreation Area is the first access point and offers campsites, restrooms, and showers. After repeated flood damage, a manmade deck was added with steps to the river and a jump-off platform. Swim across the channel to bask on a sun-drenched rock ledge.
Continue along scenic Highway 15 to discover more access points like Indian Creek, High Bank, and Wolf Pen Recreation Area—or simply pull over anywhere the river comes into view for a refreshing swim.
From Highway 15, take Highway 103 to reach the Oark General Store & Café, Arkansas’ oldest continuously operating store, established in 1890, where you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. Its original wood floors, walls, and ceilings still stand, echoing stories from generations of travelers.
Up for a longer adventure that takes you through the scenic Ozark countryside? Richland Creek Recreation Area offers a swimming hole worth the trip. About seven miles south of the campground on County Road 1205, you’ll pass Falling Water Falls where there’s a ten-foot ledge stretching across the creek that’s impossible to miss. This is your classic Ozark swimming hole: a rocky ledge for leaping, a waterfall curtain for showering, and a high-arching rope swing for big airtime. If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch a kayaker dropping over the falls.
These are just a few of the many swimming holes within easy reach of the River Valley. For more, check out Glenn Wheeler’s Swimming Holes of the Ozarks, or grab a map and chart your own summer adventure.
