Arizona summers are not for the faint of heart, and staying cool requires great effort. Luckily, our state is full of swimming spots that are not only refreshing, but jaw-droppingly beautiful, as well. Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is one of these pristine oases – we’d go so far as to say it’s one of the best swimming holes in Arizona! Seldom crowded and surrounded by miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and other amenities, this hidden gem is worth seeking out.

Welcome to your new favorite escape! The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is a 23,000-acre oasis in the desert that surprisingly few people are aware of.
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Located just 20 miles northeast of Safford, the BLM-managed conservation area features four pristine waterways: the Gila and San Francisco Rivers and Bonita and Eagle Creeks.
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In the spring, whitewater enthusiasts flock to Gila Box to take advantage of the higher water levels caused by runoff.
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Summertime, however, is our personal favorite season to visit. Water levels are significantly lower, so visitors can enjoy a leisurely swim or float that is still an incredible adventure - just a much more relaxing one.
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Water recreation is not all Gila Box has to offer. You can also hike, explore prehistoric structures and rock art, and observe over 100 different bird species.
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There are two designated campgrounds within the conservation area. Riverview Campground (pictured) has 13 units, while Owl Creek Campground offers seven. Amenities include tables, shade structures, grills, bathrooms, and trash cans, plus potable water at Riverview.
Google/Luis “Mr.Kopriti” Glinos
So if you're looking for a new swimming hole to check out this summer, set your sights on Gila Box. It's the perfect place to cool off, and it isn't nearly as crowded as some of the other, more popular spots in the area.
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Visit the Bureau of Land Management website to learn more about Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and to get directions from Safford.

Have you ever been to Gila Box in the summer? If so, is it one of your favorite swimming holes in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article to learn all about Duncan, a nearby small town where Sandra Day O’Connor grew up.

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Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, 11333 Bonita Creek Rd, Safford, AZ 85546, USA