Looking to cool off in nature this summer? If you think that a simple walk in the woods won’t be enough, check out these Arizona swimming holes scattered throughout the state. They’re the perfect destinations to enjoy a refreshing dip and make a hot summer’s day a cooler and more memorable one.

1. Bull Pen at West Clear Creek
Bullpen Day Use Area, Bull Pen Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, USA
Smiles1479/Wikimedia Commons
You’ll find this swimming hole about 15 miles east of Camp Verde along West Clear Creek. It's about 10 feet at its deepest but swim around before you decide to dive in because some areas are only a few feet deep. It's one of the best swimming holes in Arizona.
2. Crescent Moon Ranch
300 Red Rock Crossing Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
McFotoSFO/Flickr
Ditch the Sedona crowds at Slide Rock and check out this area several miles south. It's a short distance east from the Red Rocks campground, so it's easy to find. Visit the USDA website for more information.

Check out this video by @LanceandLyss:
3. Fossil Creek
Alan Stark/Flickr
This absolutely beautiful area west of Pine and Strawberry features clear turquoise waters. Who wouldn’t want to dip their toes in here? Make note that you do need to get a permit to visit Fossil Creek. Click here for more information.

Check out this video by @JerryArizona:

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4. Wet Beaver Creek
U.S. Forest Service, Coconino National Forest/Flickr
You’ll find several swimming holes in this area a few miles northeast of the Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Montezuma Castle National Park. There are plenty of areas for you to dive or wade with your kids. Check out the USDA website for more information on these Arizona swimming holes.
5. West Clear Creek Wilderness
West Clear Creek Wilderness, Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA
R Shane Rosanova/Google Local
Found within the Coconino National Forest, this is another area where you’ll find some refreshing swimming holes in Arizona. You'll love cooling off here!

Check out this video by @letstrekiteasy:
6. Ellison Creek Falls
Ellison Creek Cascades, 9P2F+34, Payson, AZ 85541, USA
Akkapo/TripAdvisor
If you’re camping along the Mogollon Rim, be sure to check out this swimming hole -- it's one of the best swimming holes in Arizona! The water is icy cold so it will make a refreshing dip following a hike from the Second Crossing Campground. Visit the Discover Gila County website for more information.

 

What other areas do you like to swim in to chill out in the summer? If you liked these swimming holes in Arizona, you might also love these awesome AZ water parks.

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Swimming Holes In Arizona

Leah | June 13, 2020

What is the hottest month of the year in Arizona?

Desert summers can be brutally hot, so if you want to cool off you can check out the best swimming spots in Arizona. The hottest month of the year in Arizona on average is July. During that month, the average high temperature is 106 degrees, and the low is 84. As many Arizonans know, it can easily be over 110 degrees during that month with blazing sunshine. If you're planning on taking a refreshing swim, be sure to prepare accordingly by wearing sunscreen and taking ample drinking water for the hike up. Stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay safe when enjoying AZ summer destinations.

Are there any natural lazy rivers in Arizona?

Here are a few natural lazy rivers in Arizona:

  • The Salt River is extremely popular for tubing, where you can lounge in a tube and let the river carry you.
  • You can also tube on the Verde River near Cottonwood
  • Colorado River near Yuma has tubing as well.

 

What are the most beautiful hikes in Arizona?

Some of the most beautiful hikes in Arizona include:

  • To truly experience the Grand Canyon, try the Bright Angel Trail. It's 18 miles long and will take you down into the canyon, showcasing all of its beauty.
  • The Wildcat Trail in Monument Valley gives stellar views of the iconic Mitten and Merrick Buttes.
  • In Sedona, try the West Fork Trail, a forest canyon hike that is considered one of the most picturesque in the entire state of Arizona.

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