DFW summers are no joke, but luckily, we’ve got plenty of places to cool off. Whether you’re looking for a quiet cove, a rocky lakeside beach, or a hidden river spot, here’s where to find the best natural swimming holes near Dallas-Fort Worth.
Lake Lewisville is one of the largest lakes in North Texas, and it has plenty of swimming spots. If you’re looking for a lively scene, Party Cove near Westlake Park is the place to be—just be ready for a crowd (and lots of boats). For a more family-friendly vibe, Little Elm Beach offers a sandy shoreline, volleyball courts, and a calm swimming area.
Lake Texoma is massive, straddling the Texas-Oklahoma border, and it’s home to some of the best lake swimming in the region. Eisenhower State Park has rocky beaches and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming or floating. If you’re up for an adventure, check out Island View Park, a hidden gem with sandy shores and some of the cleanest water you’ll find in North Texas.
If you want a lake with a more natural, less-developed feel, Ray Roberts Lake is a great pick. The Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch units both have designated swimming areas with shallow, calm water—perfect for families. Bonus: the hiking and biking trails here are some of the best in North Texas, so you can mix in a little adventure before taking a dip.
While Lake Ray Hubbard is mostly known for boating, there are a few great swimming spots. Rockwall Harbor has a nice lakeside area where you can wade in, but for a better swimming experience, Windsurf Bay Park in Garland has a wide, sandy beach with shallow waters. This is one of the best spots close to Dallas for a quick swim.
It’s a bit of a drive, but Blue Hole Park is one of the most scenic swimming spots in Texas. The San Gabriel River carves out a deep, blue-green pool surrounded by limestone cliffs, making it an amazing place to swim. The water stays refreshingly cool, even in the peak of summer.
Where else can you swim alongside real dinosaur tracks? The Paluxy River runs through Dinosaur Valley State Park, creating shallow pools and deep swimming holes, depending on water levels. After a good rain, the river is perfect for floating and swimming.
This isn’t your typical natural swimming hole, but it’s still a classic. Burger’s Lake is a one-acre, spring-fed lake with diving boards, a sandy beach, and a relaxed, old-school summer camp vibe. It’s privately owned, so there’s an entrance fee, but the clear water and family-friendly setup make it a great option.
If you like a little adventure with your swimming, Lake Mineral Wells is a great pick. The lake has a dedicated swimming area with calm, clear water, plus rocky cliffs where you can jump in. If you want to explore more, bring a kayak or check out the rock climbing spots nearby.
Grapevine Lake has plenty of places to swim, but Twin Coves Park is one of the best. It’s a quiet cove with a sandy shoreline and clear water, making it a solid pick if you want to avoid the crowds at other lakes. You can also rent a cabin here if you want to turn your trip into an overnight stay.
One of the best waterfall swimming holes in Texas, Tonkawa Falls features a 15-foot waterfall that spills into a deep, natural pool. Even in the summer when the falls slow down, the water is cool and perfect for swimming. Some folks jump off the falls (even though it’s technically not allowed), but it’s just as fun to float and enjoy the scenery.
If you want blue water and dramatic cliffs, Hell’s Gate at Possum Kingdom Lake is where it’s at. While the famous cliffs are better suited for experienced cliff jumpers, there are plenty of calm spots to swim nearby. This lake is even better if you have access to a boat or kayak.
