10 top swimming holes worth exploring near St. Louis

Embark upon a quick hike before you hit the water at one of these must-visit spots

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A quick dip underwater is appealing every year, but this summer you might be looking for new or different options where you can cool off as the temperatures spike. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, you can take a short drive to one of these swimming holes in the St. Louis region and, while you’re there, enjoy a picturesque hike to the water and back. Just be careful—you won't find lifeguards at many of these spots.

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1. Lake Lincoln at Cuivre River State Park | Troy

It always feels like summer at Lake Lincoln, where the sandy beach and cool water create a relaxing seasonal oasis. There’s an on-site change house close to the beach, where swimmers can take a dip anytime from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 636-528-7247. 678 MO-147.

2. St. Joe Park | Park Hills

With two swimming areas at Monsanto and Pim lakes, this park features plenty of beach area to relax and cool off. Monsanto is the larger lake of the two, and includes a large shelter with picnic tables, a change house, and activity area. As long as you’re certified—and joined by an additional certified diver—you can scuba in both bodies of water. The beaches are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. 573-431-1069. 2800 Pimville.

3. Finger Lakes State Park | Columbia

The one-time quarry is now home to one of the best outdoor exploration areas in the state. Swimming is allowed anywhere besides the boat ramp from sunrise to sunset. If you’re eager for something more adventurous, launch your own watercraft or rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard on-site. Boating is also allowed, though gas-powered motors are prohibited. 573-443-5315. 1505 Peabody.

4. Castor River Shut-Ins | Fredericktown

The only known pink granite shut-ins in Missouri are part of an igneous rock formation that is believed to be 1.5 billion years old. There are plenty of places to swim, as well as plenty of waterfalls to admire. A visit here almost feels like a visit to a different world. 573-290-5730. County Road 253.

5. Rocky Falls Shut-Ins | Winona

If you’re eager to find the natural pool, there’s a short and easy-to-navigate hiking trail that will lead you directly to the water. Or, if you’re in the mood for a more adventurous challenge, try hiking the six-mile Klepzig Mill Trail to burn some calories before taking a dip. 573-323-4236. County Road NN-526.

6. Lon Sanders Canyon Conservation Area | Piedmont

Take a short hike to this pool nestled inside this 130-acre conservation area. There, you’ll find a place to cool off next to a small waterfall. 573-663-7130. Country Road 341.

7. Fugitive Beach | Rolla

With three cliff jumps, a 60-foot waterslide, and plenty of space to splash around, this isn’t your typical swimming hole. The whole family will have a safe, enjoyable time at this resort-like destination. Admission is $15 for guests 11 years of age and older, $13 for seniors, and $12 for kids 10 and younger. Children under 2 get in free of charge. 16875 County Road 5285.

8. Johnson’s Shut-Ins | Middle Brook

You’ll have plenty of company at this recreation area—and for good reason. Johnson’s Shut-Ins is one of the most popular parks in Missouri thanks to all of the activities it offers, including swimming, hiking, camping, and more. Visit in the late fall to avoid the crowds. You might even have acres of nature all to yourself. 573-546-2450. 148 Taum Sauk Trail.

9. Jackson Falls | Simpson, Illinois

This enchanting swimming hole can be found at the base of a waterfall found in the Shawnee National Forest, where fascinating rock formations tower above the pool. Follow Trail 049 for a 3.25-mile roundtrip hike to the bottom of the falls. 618-658-2111.

10. Bell Smith Springs | Ozark, Illinois

The streams that meander through this area of the Shawnee National Forest occasionally turn into water holes that are fine for swimming. Follow the White Trail to find one located near the Devil’s Backbone. 618-658-2111. Bell Smith Springs Road, Ozark, Illinois.

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