Here Are 12 Michigan Swimming Holes That Will Make Your Summer Epic
By Serena Maria Daniels|Updated on May 30, 2023(Originally published May 25, 2023)
×
Serena Maria Daniels
Author
Serena Maria Daniels is an award-winning freelance journalist in Detroit, by way of Chicago, by way of the West Coast. She writes about Michigan for OIYS. Serena enjoys learning about language and culture and taking road trips with her beagle Ralph.
It goes without saying Michigan is home to some prime beaches along our Great Lake coasts. But sometimes lake swimming can be tricky, depending on the beach. Maybe it’s too rocky. Maybe its tide is too high (yes, there are powerful waves in Lake Michigan). Or maybe that river or creek has a strong current. We’ve identified some great Michigan swimming holes that are a bit more user-friendly, especially for little ones who might need shallow waters. Read on:
Sure this is more of a manmade swimming hole, but if you can't get out of the city, it really is chock full of fun for kids of all ages, with zero-depth entry, slides for all age levels, and a sandy play area.
Advertisement
9) Kensington Metropark, Milford
Kensington Metropark, 4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48380, USA
Next up on our list of where to go swimming in Michigan is the Kensington Metropark. Enjoy long walks along the shore of the small lake, have a picnic, and when the weather's right, dip your toes in the water and splash around.
8) Miners Beach, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Shingleton
Popular for its shallow, clear water, this spot located at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is also idyllic for small children - so long as they're supervised of course.
This place is definitely NOT your average city pool. Water slides, zero depth entry for the little kiddies, and room for lap swimming, this is a great community asset.
5) Ocqueoc Falls Campground, Millersburg
Ocqueoc Falls Campground, Millersburg, MI 49759, USA
Ocqueoc Falls is the only real waterfall in the Lower Peninsula. The campsite gives you access to the falls, where you can wade, swim, or splash about.
Advertisement
4) GM Plaza Fountains, Detroit
GM Plaza Promenade, 300 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48226, USA
Not a swimming hole per se, this fountain overlooking the Detroit River has become a favorite destination for families wanting to cool off, but who are perhaps unable to venture outside of the city.
3) Pickerel Lake Campground
Pickerel Lakeside Campground, 12666 N Woodbridge Ave, Bitely, MI 49309, USA
The shallow, slow-moving Platte River at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore empties out into Lake Michigan. Perfect for kayaking, tubing, and swimming.
1) Stonycreek Metropark
Stony Creek Metropark, 4300 Main Park Dr, Shelby Township, MI 48316, USA
Stonycreek Metropark is home to one of the most popular beaches in Metro Detroit, so make sure you stake your spot on the sand early as this place tends to get crowded.
These are just a few great places to swim in Michigan. Have you ever been to any of these exciting spots? If so, which ones were your favorites? Would you agree that they are among the best swimming holes in Michigan? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
We know there are many more hidden swimming holes in the state that you’d love. Be sure to check out the swimming hole at beautiful Torch Lake.
If you’re still in the mood for more Michigan adventures, take a look at this video:
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.