Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

Please select your date of birth for special perks on your birthday. Your username will be your unique profile link and will be publicly used in comments.
Narcity Pro

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with Narcity Pro.

Pro

$5/month

$40/year

  • Everything in the Free plan
  • Ad-free reading and browsing
  • Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
  • Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
  • Cancel anytime.
For Pro members only Pro
Summary

These 6 Swimming Holes Have The Clearest Water In Georgia & Some Are Completely Free

These hidden gems are so bucket list-worthy.

​A waterfall pouring into a blue pool Right: A woman posing in front of a turquoise waterfall.

A waterfall pouring into a blue pool Right: A woman posing in front of a turquoise waterfall.

Georgia Contributing Writer

Georgia is known for its natural beauty and scorching Southern heat.

You can cool down this summer with friends at some of these hidden gems nestled in the state's lush forests and mountain trails.

These crystal clear swimming holes boast some of the most pristine waters in the entire state.

Whether you prefer a rushing waterfall perched on a trial in the mountains or a natural spring-fed swimming pool, there is something for everyone and some spots are completely free!

The water quality may not always be safe to swim in — even when it looks as blue as the sky. Before going on a water adventure, we recommend contacting local authorities, getting informed about the weather, and wearing a life jacket, even if you're a good swimmer.

Cherokee Falls at Cloudland Canyon State Park

Price: $5 for parking

Address: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA

Why You Need To Go: You can hike a short trail loop atop Lookout Mountain to find this picturesque waterfall that pours into pristine waters. There, you can cool down from your hike surrounded by some of Georgia's most sparkling water.

Website

Red Clay Resort

Price: $8-10

Address: 5510 Red Clay Rd, Cohutta, GA

Why You Need To Go: The Red Clay Resort features a private spring-fed swimming pool. If you aren't in the mood to hike but want something more natural than a traditional chlorinated pool, this popular swimming hole located in Red Clay State Park is perfect.

Website

Lake Allatoona

Price: $5 for parking

Address: Lake Allatoona, Etowah River, GA

Why You Need To Go: Lake Allatoona has been referred to as one of the cleanest lakes in the state of Georgia. This massive body of water outside of Atlanta has more than 270 miles of shoreline to be enjoyed, and plenty of opportunities to lounge on one of the lake's parks or beaches.

Website

Blue Hole Falls on High Shoals Creek

Price: Free

Address: Indian Grave Gap Rd, Hiawassee, GA

Why You Need To Go: This beautiful waterfall located on the High Shoals Creek Trail has observation decks for relaxing 40°F temp year round, so you can spend those scorching summer days cooling off. The crystal clear water makes it a picture-perfect destination to cool down after a hike in Georgia's natural beauty.

Website

Jacks River Falls on Beech Bottom Trail 

Price: Free

Address: Jacks River Falls, Epworth, GA

Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem is awaiting inside a lush green forest in Georgia's rugged mountains. This crystal clear water can be found nestled in the wilderness, welcoming swimmers looking to take a dip while avoiding crowds.

Website

Dick's Creek Falls

Price: Free

Address: Dick's Creek Falls, GA 30525

Why You Need To Go: This clear swimming hole is a hot spot on the Chattooga River. A shady hike leads to pristine waters with tiered waterfalls where you can enjoy the refreshing mountian air.

Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Contributing Writer Maeve Browne (she/her) is a journalist living in her hometown Savannah, Georgia. Maeve is an award-winning reporter and expert on all things "Lowcountry." She has a knack for internet culture, food, wine and travel writing, as well as breaking news in Georgia's major cities. She has been freelancing for digital publications for seven years and was Narcity USA's first full-time Staff Writer.

Ontario is home to Canada's 'prettiest' town and houses are so cheap it's a 'miracle'

This dreamy beach town is one of the best spots to live in the province.

21 products at Costco that are actually cheaper than items at Dollarama

Buying the bulk-sized products gets you more bang for your buck! 👀