Summertime swimming may be the most beloved pastime in Arkansas. No matter if it's in a creek, river, or lake, just about any of our state's swim spots beat out a concrete pool any day. We've collected ten of our favorite natural pools around the state so you can make sure your family stays cool this summer.

1. Walnut Creek - Royal

The Charlton Recreation Area near Royal has the perfect pool for a summer cool-off. The pool was formed after the creek was dammed in 1935 and Arkansans have been enjoying it ever since.

For directions to the recreation area, use this map.

2. Mountain Fork Creek - Natural Dam

Similar to Walnut Creek, this particular pool was formed because of a dam; however, this dam was not human engineered. The 200-ft. long natural dam along Mountain Fork Creek splits the water into a calm swimming pool above and a refreshing wading pool below.

You can find the dam along N Hwy 65 in the community of Natural Dam, which is right outside of Cedarville.

3. Rosa-hole - Fifty-Six

This lovely spot is along North Sylamore Creek. The Rosa-hole is even outfitted with a rope swing with two jumping bluff options: "wanna be Olympian" and "for the rest of us."

You can reach the North Sylamore Campground using this map.

4. Gunner Pool - Fifty-Six

Another gem along the North Sylamore Creek is the perfectly blue Gunner Pool. The Gunner Pool Recreation Area makes for a great camping break if you're hiking the nearby Sylamore Hiking Trail.

To reach the recreation area from Mountain View, take Arkansas 14 west for 14.2 miles then right on Forest Service Road 1102 for 3 miles.

5. Kings River Falls - Witter

You can see Arkansas' beauty at its finest when you dip into this waterfall-fed pool. The Kings River Falls Natural Area is great for fishing and hiking, too.

For more details and directions to the Kings River Falls, read our full article right here.

6. Cedar Creek - Hagarville

This dreamy swimming hole takes some effort to reach but is well worth it. A 5-mile hike out of Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area to Cedar Creek will reward you with this lovely oasis.

For directions on how to reach this natural pool, read our feature article right here.

7. Lake Ponder - Paragould

Have the fun amenities of a water park without the overwhelming chemicals at Lake Ponder. Crowley's Ridge State Park's natural pool is the perfect way to kick off a summer camping trip.

The state park is located at 2092 Hwy 168 North in Paragould.

8. Little Missouri River - Langley

This natural pool along the "Little Mo" is part of the Albert Pike Recreation Area. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy after this refreshing swim.

The Albert Pike Rec Area is located 6 miles down Highway 369 in Langley.

9. Big Springs - Cotter

It's not everyday you can enjoy a city park with a natural spring-fed pool, but Big Springs Park features just that. Have a splash contest using the pool's rope swing.

Big Springs Park is alongside the White River at 107 Harding Blvd., Cotter, AR 72626.

10. Woolum - St. Joe

The Buffalo National River has dozens of swimming holes but Woolum might be our favorite. The stunning bluffs and clear waters make this standout spot a must-visit.

For directions to this area, use these coordinates.

This is just a small dip into the plethora of natural pools around Arkansas. Share your favorite with us in the comments below!

For some camping inspiration, you may want to stay at this beautiful spot along the Buffalo.