Summer has officially arrived and we are in for a hot one this year (in case you haven't already noticed!). If you're scouring the internet trying to find places to cool down, check out these 9 refreshing natural pools you'll definitely want to visit this summer.
1. Travertine Creek: Chickasaw National Recreational Area - 901 W. 1st St., Sulphur
Travertine Creek in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur is a gorgeous creek that runs through stunning scenery in this national park. The creek is not only beautiful but is a perfect spot to cool off in summer, as it maintains an average of 65 degrees year round. Mineral and freshwater springs flow freely and the 2,300 acres of national forest are breathtaking.
2. Pawnee Bathhouse & Waterpark - Pawnee Lake Rd., Pawnee
If you’re looking for the perfect place to cool off this summer, head to the Pawnee Bathhouse and Waterpark in Pawnee. From sandy beaches to historic architecture to high dives and low dives, this 2-acre freshwater pool will have you relaxing and enjoying a little slice of heaven right here in Oklahoma.
3. Bath Lake: Medicine Creek - Medicine Park
Medicine Creek runs through the middle of the Medicine Park and is stocked yearly with trout, while two dams form the popular Bath Lake Swimming Hole. Come enjoy the cool waters of this darling town in southern Oklahoma.
4. Spavina Creek - 555 Main St., Spavinaw
Clear, turquoise waters flow from Spavinaw Creek and visitors enjoy the beautiful swimming area. You'll find a rope swing and rocks for jumping, along with shallow and deep waters. Bring the whole family and enjoy this relaxing and cool spot on a hot summer day.
5. Spring Creek - Delaware County
Spring Creek in northeastern Oklahoma starts in Delaware County and flows southwest about 34 miles through Cherokee, Delaware and Mayes Counties. It runs through private and public land and be accessed at several spots along the banks. You'll definitely want to check out this spring creek that boasts some of the clearest water in the state. You can access the spring for a small fee at Smokey Mountain Campground at 2223 SE 61.6 Drive in Locust Grove.
6. Blue Hole Park - 158 N4470, Salina
Blue Hole Park, just east of Salina, covers 17 acres with a refreshing spring-fed swimming hole as the focal point. It's a little oasis that boasts crystal, blue water that ranges in temperature from about 40-50 degrees. That might sound cold, but in the middle of summer, it feels incredible. Bring your lounge chairs and towels and enjoy the whole day at the park. The price of admission is only $10 per carload.
7. Gage Artesian Beach -East Independence & State Highway 15, Gage
Hiding in northwest Oklahoma is the state’s largest outdoor swimming pool that is spring fed from a lake. Great Artesian Beach is the perfect place to go during the hot, summer months for an enjoyable afternoon swim in fresh water. Visitors can enjoy the mineral water while jumping off the diving board, sliding down the slide or floating in the pool.
8. Pennington Creek - 400 S. Capitol Ave., Tishomingo
At Pennington Creek, you will find a 15-acre park that provides a fun day of activities, from a simple picnic to a day of swimming. The small dam is a popular swimming area and boasts beautiful scenery. Admission is free of charge.
Where is your favorite place to cool off in the summer? Unfortunately, it looks like we are in for a hot one this year. Here's a funny article about what it's like in Oklahoma when the heat hits our state.
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