On a warm spring or summer afternoon, there’s nothing better than taking a dip in a cool body of water. While traditional beaches or backyard pools have their perks, it’s tough to beat the unique experience of exploring a man-made swimming hole. Here are five man-made swimming holes in the US that will blow you away with their beauty and charm.
1. Ashwaubomay Lake (2881 S Broadway, Green Bay, WI)
This seasonal gem in Wisconsin is the perfect spot to spend time basking in the sunshine with family and friends.
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Ashwaubomay Lake typically opens in early June and remains in operation through late August, when temperatures begin to drop. The man-made lake offers everything from slides to diving boards to a beach volleyball court, so it’s impossible to be bored here.
2. Red Clay Resort (5510 Red Clay Rd., Cohutta, GA)
Generations of visitors have appreciated the spring-fed swimming pool at Red Clay Resort, which draws in locals and tourists alike with its stunning picnic space, play areas, concession stand, and cool waters. You could spend all day splashing in this one-of-a-kind swimming hole and never grow tired of its fun atmosphere. What’s not to love?
Venture to this unique locale to experience one of America’s most incredible man-made outdoor destinations.
Dunn’s Falls was created in the 1850s and has delighted countless explorers since its inception. Splash in the fresh water under the falls’ 65-foot drop, gaze in wonder at the on-site water wheel, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment in nature.
In the mood to swim during your next journey to Florida, but not quite ready to commit to a genuine oceanfront vacation? Never fear. The brilliant blue waters at this man-made lagoon and swimming hole in Wesley Chapel will completely steal your heart. Featuring special events, kayaking, and standard swimming options for all ages, this 7.5-acre wonderland will absolutely amaze you. Epperson Lagoon belongs on your bucket list.
5. Canyon Falls Swimming Pool (219 Chestnutburg Rd., Lansing, WV)
This beautiful spot perfectly combines the delights of nature with the careful attention to detail afforded by a man-made swimming locale. Situated just a stone’s throw from the New River Gorge, Canyon Falls Swimming Pool will transport you to a watery wonderland. Marvel at waterfalls, fountains, lovely stonework, and more as you spend the day cooling off in this 3,000-square-foot gem.
Are there any other man-made swimming holes in the US that should have been included in our list? We’re always eager to hear your suggestions, so drop us a line in the comment section!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you're the type who eschews winter and prefers to fly south for the season, we understand. The cold-weather months aren't for the faint of heart, or the always-cold types who spend the season hibernating indoors. What if, instead of wishing away the winter and praying to Punxsutawney Phil, you allowed yourself a mid-season getaway -- the chance to relax and recharge, someplace warm and inviting? These places like the Caribbean in the U.S. offer just that: sun, surf, sand, and sublime scenic surroundings sure to make you forget it's winter, if only for a while.
Seven miles of California coastline filled with palm trees, white sand shores, and glittering waters make Laguna Beach undeniably attractive in the winter. While a certain MTV show painted Laguna Beach as excessively opulent and high falutin, this SoCal beach town is surprisingly friendly and accessible. Laguna's beaches are packed during the summer, but during the winter, they are considerably less crowded. The temperatures are pleasant, the waves are perfect, and the views – golden cliffs and multimillion-dollar houses, some with elevators -- are a sunny shot of serotonin!
Yes, we know: Tahoe temps are anything but tropical in the winter. But with its white sand shores and turquoise waters, Sand Harbor State Park has the soul of a Caribbean paradise. The beach here is stunning, nestled in one of the most pristine and picture-perfect places in the U.S. Lake Tahoe is the ultimate vacation for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the best hiking, camping, and recreation in the country all year round, not to mention the fact that it's one of the clearest lakes in the U.S. But, unless you're keen on polar plunges, skip the swimsuit and bring a winter coat!
Out to prove that Arizona is more than just desert, Lake Havasu is a surprising oasis that you might not expect to find in the landlocked Southwest. The fine, white sand (imported from nearby Nevada) and copious palm trees on Windsor Beach would look right at home on any tropical island, but instead, visitors to Lake Havasu are well-positioned to explore the Grand Canyon State in all its splendor. While summer brings near-endless opportunities for aquatic recreation, the winter months provide a calm and quiet respite that's much appreciated after the busy holiday season.
4. Castle Hot Springs - Arizona
For a change of pace this winter, enjoy the warm waters of ... Castle Hot Springs in Arizona. This hot springs features all the amazing amenities you'd expect at an all-inclusive resort, including chef-made meals, exclusive access to the springs, and organized activities like guided hikes and farm tours. Of course, the main attraction here is the springs, and they don't disappoint. Several secluded pools are located within Castle Hot Springs; and between the springs themselves, luxurious resort, and sublime scenery, you're all but guaranteed to have a wholly unique and pleasurable soaking experience at this desert oasis.
5. Galveston Island, Texas
people enjoy the beautiful sandy beach at the gulf of Mexico at the island of Galveston with dramatic beautiful sky in Texas, USA.
It's easy to forget that Texas *is* a coastal state, boasting some 367 miles of sandy shoreline. Galveston Island is one of the Lone Star State's most beloved waterfront oases, offering visitors a less-crowded beachfront experience than the ever-popular South Padre Island. In addition to the outdoor scenery that's downright Caribbean, the town boasts a bucket-list-worthy tropical attraction, too. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Indoor Waterpark attracts visitors from far and wide with its water chutes, speed slides, wave pool, and, for the adults, an enormous 30,000-person hot tub with a swim-up bar. Paradise in Texas with an umbrella-topped drink on the beach? We're there.
Beaches aren't the only taste of the tropics in Florida; Juniper Springs is home to over 700 glorious springs -- the largest collection on the planet. But the best and most beautiful is hidden deep within the lush Ocala National Forest. Because it's here where you'll find Juniper Springs, a real-life hidden oasis. Feeding what is seemingly a tropical paradise are hundreds of small bubbling cascades, as well as massive springs, pumping out cool, 72-degree water all day long. Nestled in a verdant-green tropical forest, visitors can spend the afternoon swimming beneath the shade of Florida's palms and oaks. This gorgeous spring not only affords Insta-worthy views but also offers an accessible, bucket-list experience for families.
The Florida Keys are one of the top vacation destinations in the country, proving that you don’t have to leave the country to enjoy a tropical paradise. Whether you stick to the smaller, quieter keys like Islamorada or head to Key West to live it up, you're in for a tropical treat filled with once-in-a-lifetime adventures, like flying on seaplanes, scuba diving, and visiting the southernmost part of the country. While you can fly into Key West, we are major fans of taking the scenic route: the Overseas Highway. From its origin just outside of Homestead to its terminus in Key West, this 113-mile stretch of highway crosses 42 bridges and travels over the largest of the Florida Keys, and it's a drive that will truly put you in an "island" frame of mind.
Hailed as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Sanibel Island, Florida, is extraordinary in every way. This island is best known for its white sand beaches dotted with a kaleidoscope of vibrant seashells. The sunsets here are incredibly colorful, too; truly one of the most sublime spectacles you'll ever experience. With a drink in hand and toes in the sand, a tropical paradise awaits on Sanibel Island this winter.
Seaside is an enchanting waterfront community in Florida that has quietly become one of the most coveted vacation destinations in the state. In addition to incredible boutiques, charming retailers (including an independent bookstore and record shop), and an adorable grocery, the town's Central Square is home to a world of cuisine, from fine dining restaurants to a lineup of food trucks on Airstream Row, and has been listed as one of the most beautiful spaces in the world. The location of the picture-perfect town of Seahaven in "The Truman Show," Seaside is one of the most idyllic coastal locales in the country; and unlike its fictional counterpart, Seaside is the real deal; a beautiful oasis that's as good as it gets.
A tropical treasure hiding in Alabama, Orange Beach is a glorious winter getaway that's a beloved local secret. The sand is 95 percent quartz -- snow-white and sparkling -- and the waters are a shockingly brilliant cerulean blue. Nine-mile Orange Beach is the perfect little oasis for your next getaway, complete with warm water, lots of room to spread out your beach blanket, and restaurants just off the sand -- and even on the water! Home to tiki bars and cruise ships, Orange Beach is a celebrated tropical paradise oozing with Southern charm and hospitality.
11. St. Simons Island, Georgia
The St. Simons Lighthouse stands tall behind the public swimming pool at Neptune Park in the Village area of St. Simons Island, GA
The Golden Isles of Georgia include some of the most pristine islands in the country -- Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and St. Simons Island. It's here you'll find one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the country, surrounded with lush vegetation that's reminiscent of the Big Island. Of course, the rest of St. Simons is equally dazzling, flush with abundant flora and fauna, pristine beaches, and classic beach town charm. The beaches are also a great way to get a feel for the area, whether it’s setting up shop on East Beach with a towel and umbrella or simply exploring on a bike along the St. Simons Island Trail System.
There's a reason Hilton Head is a top U.S. vacation destination, and that's because this South Carolina island is home to some of the country's most beautiful beaches. From the moment you drive over the iconic James F. Byrnes Bridge into Hilton Head, you'll truly be on island time. This well-planned island boasts 12 miles of beaches and is divided into 11 primary locales, each with its own restaurants, shopping, recreation, and beach access. Nothing about Hilton Head feels commercial or touristy either, as the main attraction here truly is the beach. And with a near-endless expanse of picturesque shoreline, Hilton Head Island truly is a bona fide American oasis.
13. The Omni Homestead Resort - Hot Springs, Virginia
Tucked away in the aptly-named Hot Springs, Virginia, the Omni Homestead Resort is a historic accommodation that has attracted visitors from near and far for centuries. Not only does this hotel offer the perfect setting for a winter getaway, but it also features natural hot springs that will warm you up on even the chilliest days. The original lodging was built in 1766 to be in close proximity to the hot springs, which were believed to be therapeutic; today, these springs are still the resort's most popular feature. Tropical? Not quite. But oasis? Absolutely. Can you imagine a more picturesque setting for watching the snow fall than this picture-perfect, naturally heated outdoor pool? We certainly can't.
Named the Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2021, Hāpuna Beach is the very definition of paradise. It's a 61.8-acre oasis with a gorgeous stretch of white shoreline and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, bodysurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Hāpuna Beach State Park is also part of a sweeping sea change that's happening in Hawaii: in order to protect and preserve its pristine shores, the state has banned the sale of all SPF sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, and smoking is prohibited on all Hawaii beaches. Small steps can affect big change, and Hāpuna Beach State Park certainly is a tropical oasis worth preserving.
Don't let the cold get you down; embrace this time of year and plan some warm weather winter getaways at any of these glorious places like the Caribbean in the U.S. This might just be what you need to power through the snowy months ahead. If you still enjoy playing in winter weather but need a fun getaway, try some of the best places to visit in December (including both warm weather and snow-filled destinations).
