With so many hiking trails, rivers, and creeks throughout Kentucky, it comes as no surprise that our state is filled with hidden spots that are perfect for taking a dip on a hot summer day. Before outdoor water playgrounds or kayak parks, Kentuckians had to seek out their own natural swimming holes, and it usually involved a little adventure.

If you’d like a reminder of what summers were like during the good old days, then head to the Sheltowee Connector / Suspension Bridge Trail for some Red River Gorge swimming. It’s along this trail that you’ll find an incredible natural swimming hole in KY, among other surprises, that are fun-filled and filled with nostalgia.

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To reach the parking area for this trailhead, follow these directions: From Slade, travel west on KY-11/15 and then turn right onto KY-77. Follow KY-77 through Nada Tunnel and across the Red River to KY-715. Follow KY-715 for approximately 2.5 miles to a gravel road on the right that leads to a parking area.

Cooling off in this KY swimming hole is sure to not just bring back memories of the good old days, but also the opportunity to make plenty of new ones. Did you know about this hidden swimming hole along an incredible trail in Red River Gorge? Do you know of any other Red River Gorge swimming holes where you like to cool off on a hot summer day? Let us know in the comments!

If you love this spot and want to check out others like it, check out our previous article featuring another Kentucky swimming hole that can only be reached by boat!

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Red River Gorge Swimming

What are the best natural swimming holes in Kentucky?

The best natural swimming holes in Kentucky are:

  • Blue Heron
  • Clifty Creek
  • Grassy Creek
  • Happy Hollow

 

If you're in search of a natural swimming hole in KY to cool off in this summer, it doesn't get much better than Falling Rock Park in La Grange. Otherwise known as "The Quarry," this adults-only oasis is a mere 35-minute drive from Louisville. Plus, it's fed only by rainfall, so the water is some of the most pristine you'll ever swim in. There are plenty of rocks on which you can lay down a towel and soak up some rays, and the pool is large enough to accommodate lots of swimmers. It's also a popular dive spot complete with an underwater pay phone! Everyone in the water must wear a flotation device, and the day-use fee is $10 per person.

What are the best waterparks in Kentucky?

The best waterparks in Kentucky are:

  • Kentucky Splash Water Park
  • Paradise Cove Aquatic Center
  • SomerSplash Waterpark
  • Venture River Water Park

 

On a hot summer day, nothing beats visiting a Kentucky waterpark to beat the heat. One of the best waterparks in Kentucky is Kentucky Splash Waterpark, located in Williamsburg. This sprawling waterpark keeps the fun going all day long with attractions for all ages, from thrilling waterslides to a 6,000-square-foot splash pad for the kiddos. A massive wave pool will make you feel like you're in the ocean, and the winding lazy river is perfect for a relaxing float. There's also an 18-hole mini golf course, so you can give your sea legs a rest and try to score a hole-in-one.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Kentucky?

The most beautiful beaches in Kentucky are:

  • Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
  • Carr Creek State Park
  • Barren River Lake State Resort Park
  • Lake Barkley State Resort Park

 

For a state with no coastline, Kentucky is surprising brimming with beaches ideal for a summer vacation. One of the most beautiful beaches in Kentucky is, hands-down, Lake Barkley State Resort Park Beach. Open to not only just hotel guests, but also the general public, this lovely beach has pearly white sands and crystal-clear waters, plus a beach volleyball court, bathhouse, and marina.

 

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