Spring River Park Swimming Hole

Spring River Park Swimming Hole sits at a slow moving bend in the Spring River just outside of Carthage, Missouri.

The year-round river hits a bend, slowing and having a bit of depth here. The area is known by locals as being a popular swimming spot, as well as grilling and picnicking. 

There are two main areas - above and below the bend. Above the bend, the water tends to be deeper, where a rope swing in the trees allows swimmers to launch into the water below. There is shade to sit beneath here, though the river's edge is rocky and a bit rough. From here the water flows over a series of small cascades into the area below the bend. Below the bend, the river widens and slows. Shallow flow over rocky ground makes this section a little more ideal for families with small children just wanting to walk into the water a bit. The shadless lawn above is popular for people to run with their dogs, and there are tables and a disc golf course here as well.

Spring River Park is a large park with tons of features like shade structures, ball fields, bathrooms and water. The park all sits just a short walk upriver from the swimming hole areas.

Due to low visibility, those looking to swim should be very cautious of hazards in the water, and check thoroughly before swimming.

There are no fees to visit the park, which is open for day use only.