Bear Canyon Lake (Mogollon Rim)
A scenic, deep, cold lake high on the Mogollon Rim. A popular spot offering a much cooler mountain climate relative
Arizona
Frog Hollow (Catalina Mountains)
An unofficial but locally beloved swimming hole in the Catalina Mountains foothills.
Sycamore Creek
A seasonal riverbed north of Phoenix that fills with swimmable pools after snowmelt and monsoon rains; dry much of the
Slide Rock State Park
Arizona’s most famous swimming hole: an 80-ft natural sandstone chute worn smooth by Oak Creek, plus a half-mile of creek
Horton Creek
A higher-elevation Mogollon Rim creek recommended as a cooler summer alternative when lower-elevation spots get too hot.
Grasshopper Point
A classic, deep-pooled Oak Creek swimming spot just downstream of Slide Rock, popular for its shade and cliff-lined setting.
Blue Ridge Reservoir
A lesser-known, high-elevation reservoir noted by local guides as one of the most underrated swimming spots in Arizona.
Red Rock Crossing / Crescent Moon Ranch
Iconic view of Cathedral Rock reflected in Oak Creek; wading and swimming spot with picnic facilities.
East Clear Creek
A scenic Mogollon Rim creek near Blue Ridge Reservoir with several swimming access points.
Bootlegger Picnic Area
A quieter Oak Creek Canyon pull-off with shaded spots and rocks to lounge on.