When local pools and water parks just aren’t refreshing enough, a secluded swimming hole might give you just the hot-weather cool-down you need. The following lakes, creeks, and rivers create what we consider to be among the best of the best swimming holes in Ohio, and we think you’ll definitely want to check them all out as soon as you get a chance.

1. Clear Fork River
Clear Fork Mohican River, Hanover Township, OH, USA
Todd Petrie/Flickr
This river is the water source of the popular swimming hole known as Gatton Rock in Mohican State Park. For less crowds than you're bound to find at the state parks, though, you could always sneak a visit to Clear Fork in instead.
2. Sunfish Creek
Sunfish Creek, Ohio, USA
Don O'Brien/Flickr
You can find this serene swimming spot just off of Wynn Road in Pike County. It's quiet, beautiful, and the water is always just right (well... except for when it's frozen).
3. Alum Creek Reservoir
Alum Creek Reservoir Access Area, 1309 County Rd 10 A, Delaware, OH 43015, USA
Edward Raybould/Flickr
The reservoir at Alum Creek State Park flows into several small coves, which are simply perfect for a more secluded dip. This spot is beautiful day and night, and all year round, there's something beautiful to be seen here. It's one of the best secret swimming holes in Ohio!

Related Stories

You'll Feel As Though You're Walking On Water As You Wander Across The Rocks At Huntington Beach In Ohio

You'll Feel As Though You're Walking On Water As You Wander Across The Rocks At Huntington Beach In Ohio

 The Scenic Viewpoint In Ohio That Looks Like A Miniature Columbia River Gorge

The Scenic Viewpoint In Ohio That Looks Like A Miniature Columbia River Gorge

 If You Didn't Know About These 8 Swimming Holes In Ohio, They're A Must Visit

If You Didn't Know About These 8 Swimming Holes In Ohio, They're A Must Visit
4. Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022, USA
Thaddeus Quintin/Flickr
In the town of Chagrin Falls, southeast of Cleveland, are beautiful waterfalls from the Chagrin River, and multiple swimming locations in the event that the first one you find isn't quite your style.

5. Caesar's Creek
Caesar's Creek, Ohio, USA
Ted/Flickr
Along a section of Caesar's Creek, near the Little Miami River, are dozens of swimming holes, accessible only by hiking trails. They're less crowded and much quieter than some of the more popular lakes and rivers!
6. Punderson State Park
11755 Kinsman Rd, Newbury Township, OH 44065, USA
Punderson State Park
This 150-acre natural lake features a small swimming beach within Punderson State Park that's just perfect for taking a serene dip. The crystal-blue water will blow you away!
7. Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls, Benton Township, OH 43138, USA
Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, OH 43138, USA
J. Todd Poling/Flickr
Editor's Note: Cedar Falls is currently closed. Visit the Hocking Hills State Park website for the most up-to-date-information.

So you can't actually swim in this one, but it's a popular spot for kids (and adventurous adults) to cool off during a hike to Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park.

Where are some of your favorite swimming holes in Ohio? Let us know in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Swimming Holes in Ohio

Tori Jane | April 28, 2021

What are some good places to swim in Ohio?

These are some good places to swim in Ohio:

  • White Star Quarry
  • Headlands Beach
  • Natural Springs Resort
  • Mineral Springs Lake

 

Lucky for us, Ohio’s got a bunch of lakes, ponds, swimming holes, and swimming spots to enjoy during the warmer months. Some of our favorite swimming places in Ohio include man-made places like the White Star Sapphire Quarry near Gibsonburg and naturally perfect swimming spots like Mineral Springs Lake near Peebles or Headlands Beach alongside Lake Eire. We also have several awesome, enormous pools, and plenty of retreats and getaways best for relaxing in and around the water. 

What are the best things to do in Ohio during summer?

The best things to do in Ohio during summer are:

 

Don’t let our Midwestern status fool you, our summer sure can get sticky, and there’s nothing better during those hot and sweaty months than finding great places to cool down. For example, there are numerous swimming holes, natural pools, man-made pools, and more to utilize, as well as more than enough State and National Parks with creeks, rivers, and waterfalls to explore. We’re also a great state for hiking, fishing, and camping; all of those activities are more popular than ever as folks come from all over to experience the natural beauty of Ohio. 

What is summer in Ohio like?

Summer in Ohio is sticky and humid. We tend to get both worlds - heat, and humidity - so our summers can sometimes feel more sweltering than the lucky denizens of dry desert states don’t quite have to worry about. Towns nearby Lake Erie, however, are a little cooler, since the lake contributes to the climates of places in their immediate vicinities. During spring and through summer, we get some amazing thunderstorms, though occasionally we will see tornadoes or other severe weather in our backyards. Ohio is a beautiful place with plenty to explore; it’s best not to let the hot summers and cold winters tell you if you ought to come to visit or not!

Related Articles

Explore Ohio