Outbound Collective logo

The Best Swimming in Arkansas

Looking for the best swimming in Arkansas? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Arkansas. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top swimming spots in and near Arkansas

  • Sand Gap, Arkansas

    Relax at Falling Water Falls

    5.0
    This is definitely a hidden gem located in the middle of nowhere. This waterfall is literally on the side of the road, which makes for a great place to stop and have lunch. During the summer it doubles as a swimming hole and great place to chill. Getting there: Take Hwy. 16 east from Pelsor (loc...
    Read more
  • Rogers, Arkansas

    Camp at Horseshoe Bend Campground, AR

    4.0
    The campground has several sites along the shores of Beaver Lake. Its restrooms are clean and include free hot showers. The campground does not provide firewood. However, you are allowed to pick firewood from the surrounding woods. If there has been recent rainfall you’ll need to buy firewood ...
    Read more
  • Harrison, Arkansas

    Camp at Kyle's Landing

    5.0
    Kyles Landing is located directly beside the beautiful Buffalo river, hardly a stone's throw from the cool refreshing water. With huge bluffs soaring over 400ft into the air, multiple hiking trails available, and access to the river itself, the campground is a perfect weekend getaway to get outsi...
    Read more
  • Caddo Gap, Arkansas

    Backpack the Eagle Rock Loop

    5.0
    26 mi
    Located in Ouachita National Forest, Eagle Rock Loop is Arkansas' longest loop, perfect for a 3-4 day backpack. There are multiple places to begin this trip, as there are 4 trailheads along the route; (1) Albert Pike Recreation Area, (2) Little Missouri Falls on Forest Road 25, (3) 4 miles west o...
    Read more
  • Morrilton, Arkansas

    Hike the Seven Hollows Trail at Petit Jean SP

    5.0
    4.5 mi
    Start the trail at the marked Seven Hollows Trailhead just off of Petit Jean Mountain Road- there's a small parking lot and signage board. The path is dog-friendly, with lots of springtime stream crossings and swimming opportunities.  You can choose to take the 4-mile loop trail in either directi...
    Read more
  • Jasper, Arkansas

    Indian Creek to The Eye Of The Needle

    5.0
    5 mi / 700 ft gain
    Starting at approx. 900' in elevation, this 5 mile out and back hike ascends 700' in elevation to 1,400 at the highest point- The Eye of The Needle. The trail head is located next to the Buffalo River sign at Kyles Landing on the West side of the campground. You will follow the trail less than ....
    Read more
  • Witts Springs, Arkansas

    Camp at Richland Creek Campground

    5.0
    This is one of my favorite places to camp in Arkansas. Once you get there you can hike to Twin Falls or Sandstone Castle, or explore the numerous cascades along Richland Creek. It's a relatively small campground with 11 campsites, but has a lot of places to hang hammocks and also offers a picnic ...
    Read more
  • Jasper, Arkansas

    Camp along the Buffalo National River via Steel Creek

    The Buffalo National River was declared America’s first National River in 1972. Since then, and even before, it has been an Arkansas favorite for camping and canoeing.  For this trip we drove out to the Steel Creek Campground, near Ponca, AR, and started our trek from there. Camping is allowed a...
    Read more
  • Fenter Township, Arkansas

    Camp at Lake Catherine State Park

    Lake Catherine State Park offers fully-equipped cabins, over 60 tent and RV campsites, and a small marina selling everything you need for a perfect day on the lake. The beautiful tree covered campground offers a swimming beach, picnic sites, playgrounds and hiking trails. The park also offers int...
    Read more