15 U.S. Natural Pools That Outdo Any Beach Destinations
Forget the beach. These 15 stunning natural pools in the U.S. offer crystal-clear waters, breathtaking scenery, and a one-of-a-kind swimming experience.
From the turquoise waters of Havasu Falls in Arizona to the historic depths of Hamilton Pool Preserve in Texas, these stunning formations provide a fun day to spend in nature.
Natural pools form in a variety of ways, such as the collapse of underground rivers or the flowing of mineral-rich springs. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing dip, a scenic adventure, or an off-the-beaten-path escape, these jaw-dropping pools deserve a spot on your travel list.
Map of the 15 U.S. Natural Pools
Hamilton Pool Preserve, Texas
Located near Austin, this natural pool was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.
How to get there? Hamilton Pool Preserve can be reached by following a 0.25-mile trail that leads down to the pool. The trail is steep and rocky in some sections.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic waterfalls, Havasu Falls is part of the Grand Canyon and located within the Havasupai tribal lands. It is also one of the places in the U.S. you need a permit and luck to enter.
How to get there? Havasu Falls can only be reached by hiking an 8-mile trail from the Hualapai Hilltop parking area to Supai Village, followed by an additional 2-mile hike to the falls. The trail is steep and exposed to the sun, so proper preparation is essential. Permits are required and must be obtained in advance.
Sliding Rock, North Carolina
A natural waterslide in Pisgah National Forest, Sliding Rock is a 60-foot smooth boulder with a large pool at the base where visitors can swim.
How to get there? Sliding Rock is easily accessible from the parking area off U.S. Highway 276 in Pisgah National Forest. A short, well-maintained path leads from the lot to the rock slide and viewing areas. The walk is brief and easy, making it accessible for all visitors.
Montecito Hot Springs, California
Hiking and bathing in these hot springs is one of the many interesting things to do near Santa Barbara. There are more than 18 natural hot springs in California and while Mammoth Lakes Hot Springs are the most famous ones, visiting a lesser-known may be more relaxing than you think.
How to get there? Montecito Hot Springs can be reached via the Montecito Hot Springs Trail, a 3.3-mile out-and-back hike starting from the trailhead near East Mountain Drive. The moderate trail follows a scenic creek, leading to the natural hot springs tucked in the Santa Barbara foothills.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Located outside Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs features a naturally heated outdoor pool, offering a unique experience of swimming in warm waters even during the freezing Alaskan winters.
How to get there? Chena Hot Springs is located 56 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, accessible via Chena Hot Springs Road. The scenic drive takes about 1.5 hours and is open year-round. Visitors can drive directly to the resort, where parking is available near the hot springs.
Homestead Crater, Utah
This unique geothermal spring is located within a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock, and the water is naturally heated to 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit. It is part of the Homestead Resort in Midway, Utah.
How to get there? Visitors can park at Homestead Resort, and the crater entrance is just a short walk from the main parking area.
Devil’s Den, Florida
Devil’s Den is a stunning prehistoric spring inside a dry cave with crystal-clear water, popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. It offers a unique subterranean swimming experience in a beautifully preserved natural underground setting.
How to get there? Devil’s Den is located in Williston, Florida, about 30 minutes from Gainesville. Visitors can park on-site at Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring, and the entrance to the underground spring is just a short walk from the parking area.
Queen’s Bath, Hawaii
Located in Princeville, Kauai, Queen’s Bath is a tide pool formed within a lava shelf, known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This natural pool can be quite dangerous during high tide or rough seas, so safety is paramount.
How to get there? From the nearest parking area, a 0.8-mile trail descends over rocky and often slippery terrain. Caution is advised, especially during high surf conditions.
Cummins Falls, Tennessee
Cummins Falls features a breathtaking waterfall and swimming hole tucked in a rugged gorge. It is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying a refreshing swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls.
How to get there? A 1.5-mile trail leads to Cummins Falls, passing through steep, rocky terrain and a river crossing. A Gorge Access Permit is required to enter the gorge or reach the waterfall’s base. Caution is advised, especially after heavy rainfall.
Little River Canyon, Alabama
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Little River Canyon is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering numerous spots for swimming in natural pools formed by the river’s flow through the canyon.
How to get there? An easy 0.75-mile trail leads to scenic canyon views from the nearest parking lot (Little River Falls parking area). For access to the canyon floor, the steep and rocky Eberhart Trail (0.75 miles) descends sharply and requires caution on the return climb.
Opal Pool, Oregon
Opal Pool is celebrated for its vibrant, crystal-clear blue waters located in the Willamette National Forest. It is a serene spot accessible via a scenic trail, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
How to get there? From the Opal Creek Trailhead, reaching Opal Pool requires a 7-mile round-trip hike. The trail follows an old mining road to Jawbone Flats, then continues toward Cedar Flats, where Opal Pool is a short distance away. The hike is moderate but rewarding, offering a unique swimming and diving experience.
Peekamoose Blue Hole, New York
Located in the Catskill Mountains, Peekamoose Blue Hole is famous for its deep, clear waters surrounded by forest. This beloved spot is ideal for cooling off during the hot summer months.
How to get there? From the Peekamoose Mountain Trailhead parking lot, it’s a short, easy walk of about 0.2 miles to reach Peekamoose Blue Hole (permit is required). The trail is mostly flat but can be rocky and slippery near the water.
Fossil Creek, Arizona
Fossil Creek is notable for its beautiful turquoise waters, which are fed by a natural spring. The area is a haven for wildlife and offers several recreational activities including swimming and hiking.
How to get there? From the Fossil Creek Permit Parking Lot, it’s a 1.1-mile hike to Fossil Creek. The trail is moderate, with some rocky and uneven sections, but rewards hikers with clear blue water and scenic waterfalls.
Blue Hole Regional Park, Texas
Located in Wimberley, Blue Hole Regional Park is celebrated for its stunning, clear waters and shaded, cypress-lined banks. It’s a favorite local spot for swimming and enjoying picnics by the water.
How to get there? From the Blue Hole Regional Park parking lot, it’s a short, easy walk along well-maintained paths to the Blue Hole swimming area. The trail is flat and accessible, making it an easy stroll to the crystal-clear waters. Reservations are required during peak season.
Madison Blue Spring, Florida
Madison Blue Spring is a crystal-clear first-magnitude spring located along the Suwannee River. It is a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving in a serene natural setting.
How to get there? From the Madison Blue Spring State Park parking lot, it’s a short, easy walk on a well-maintained path to the spring. The trail is flat and accessible, leading directly to the crystal-clear water.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.