16 of America's Most Beautiful Swimming Holes

Snorkelers and scuba-divers-in-training love Ginnie Springs, a network of seven natural springs off the Santa Fe River, for its clear water and underwater caves.

Tucked away alongside the Arbuckle Mountains, the historic Turner Falls Park boasts a natural swimming pool that's formed by Honey Creek rushing down a 77-foot drop — Turner Falls' largest waterfall.

Located on the Havasupai Tribe Reservation, the swimming hole at Havasu Falls is a doozy to get to, but well worth it. You'll need a permit, and the journey involves a 10-mile trek (or a helicopter or mule ride). Fun fact: Havasupai means "people of the blue green water."

Formed by the Pipiwai Stream, the seven pools of O'heo Gulch are an excellent spot to cool off after a scenic waterfall hike at Haleakala National Park.

Located in the wine-making Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, the stream-fed pool at Robert Treman State Park lets visitors kick back in the water while admiring the stunning falls.

There's no touching the floor of this artesian spring. Scuba divers know the hole is at least 200 feet deep, and it doesn't stop there — one man even came across an underwater cliff.

Fans of this creekside swimming hole, in Swallow Falls State Park, say getting there is a fun and easy hike for the whole family.

Tucked away in Los Padres National Forest, this section of Tassajara Creek — known colloquially as "the Narrows" — is a favorite among hikers and guests of the nearby Tassajara Zen Mountain Center.

The section of the East Fork Black River that's narrowed (or "shut in") by smooth rocks forms the basis for this "natural water park."

It's not hard to see why animals of all kinds, from birds to reptiles to amphibians and humans, enjoy the 126-acre haven that is Blue Hole Regional Park.

Bring water shoes for this one: The trek may involve slippery rocks and a logjam or two, but beautiful Lower Oneonta Falls is worth it.

Take a detour off the Blue Ridge Parkway for this 60-foot water slide courtesy of Mother Nature.

Although only accessible by a moderate, one-hour hike, this gem is by no means hidden: It's been popular since the days when buffalo roamed the land, and draws a crowd on summer weekends.

A massive pool at the base of Dougan Falls is just one of several places to take a refreshing dip in the Washougal River.

Located in Bankhead National Forest, both the upper and lower Caney Creek Falls cascade into lovely swimming holes.

Part of the federal Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, this extraordinary pool is formed by Hamilton Creek flowing over the remnants of a limestone cave. Expect to wait your turn: The pool's popularity means long lines, even on weekdays.