There’s nothing like going for a swim on a long, hot day after a hike or a camping adventure… and since you can’t always be around a pool, a good old-fashioned natural swimming hole may be your best bet for cooling off if you are looking to go swimming in Montana. These Montana swimming holes are definitely some great places to cool off, and really are some of the good swimming holes in Montana, but they’re far from your only options. Montana is so full of clean public lakes, rivers, and creeks that you’ll always have your pick.
These swimming holes in Montana aren’t as publicized, but they’re just as refreshing as the most popular beaches in Montana.
1. Duck Creek Bridge, Yellowstone River, Billings
Just southwest of Billings, the Yellowstone River takes a wide right turn and makes some inviting swimming holes. The Duck Creek Bridge area is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.
2. Tally Lake, Whitefish
Head to the north shore to find the Tally Lake Campground, which has a nice beach area perfect for taking a swim.
3. Holland Lake, Flathead National Forest
Holland Lake is located in the Swan Valley of Northwest Montana. The Holland Lake Campground sits right on its shores and has a day use area perfect for lounging lakeside in Montana.
4. Gigantic Warm Springs, Lewistown area
This all-natural spring is 12-14 feet deep, and its 68-degree temperature makes it a pleasant place to swim. Warm Springs offers a relaxing, family-friendly environment.
5. Ackley Lake, Hobson
This quiet, peaceful park sits right in the heart of Montana. If you'd like to stay longer than one day, you can camp by the lake.
6. Red Meadow Lake Campground, Flathead National Forest
This is the perfect spot not only to swim, but for an enjoyable and scenic picnic.
7. Missouri Headwaters State Park, Three Forks
This park marks the official start of the Missouri River. To find the swimming hole, swim across the eddy (small whirlpool) to a gravel bank and float down the main current. You'll eventually come to a small cove where you can lay out in the sun. Just be careful about undercurrents. This spot is for seasoned swimmers only.
8. Lava Lake, Big Sky
Lava Lake has a great hiking trail that leads right to it, so you can get some exercise before cooling off in the water.
There’s plenty of time in the summer, so enjoy as many of these places to go swimming in Montana as you can. And don’t forget that Montana has a few fun water parks to choose from as well.
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