Summer in Montana is the best—the warm weather and sunshine create an ideal environment for exploring the great outdoors. Nothing cools you off on a hot summer day like a refreshing dip in Montana swimming holes, and our state has plenty of places to jump in. Here are some of the best swimming holes in Montana for summertime adventures.
1. The Dearborn River, Lewis and Clark
2. Yaak River Falls, near Yaak
Not only is Yaak River Falls beautiful, but it's a favorite local swimming spot in Montana.
3. The Natural Oasis, Miles City
You don’t even have to leave town to find a swimming hole in Miles City. The Natural Oasis is the municipal swimming area next to Riverside Park.
4. Flathead Lake
Don’t miss your chance to swim in one of Montana’s best gems. The water at Flathead Lake is Crystal Clear.
5. Johnsrud Park, Missoula
Johnsrud Park is a state fishing access site located on the Blackfoot River. It has a campsite, restrooms, and some great spots to swim.
6. Mill Creek Falls, Hamilton
7. Ennis Lake, Northeast of Ennis
As if this lake doesn’t look inviting enough, the water often reaches high temperatures that makes swimming quite comfortable.
8. McDonald Creek, Glacier National Park
Glacier is packed with places to go for a swim, but McDonald Creek is considered a top spot.
9. Fairy Lake, Bozeman
Drive up Bridger Canyon to Fairy Lake for one of the most beautiful swimming experiences of your life.
10. Lava Lake
11. Big Spring Creek, Lewistown
Big Spring Creek is a refreshing oasis for fishermen and swimmers. It’s also a fun place to go tubing if you have the means.
12. Ousel Falls, Big Sky
Doesn’t swimming by a waterfall sound amazing? The Ousel Falls area has plenty of spots to swim, but the largest pool sits just below the falls.
13. Hauser Lake, Helena
Hauser Lake is a 3,200 acre reservoir on the Missouri River created by Hauser Dam. If you can find the York Bridge on York Road, you’ll find a rock swing and rocks to jump off. This is a popular swimming spot because it’s one of the best in the area.
Of course, the best Montana swimming holes are often in secluded "off the grid" places. So go exploring this summer and find some new spots to cool off.
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