Best Swimming Holes & Waterfalls Near Branson to Cool Off This Summer Branson, Missouri, is famous for its family-friendly attractions, live entertainment, and stunning Ozark scenery. But when the summer heat kicks in, there’s nothing better than cooling off in a refreshing swimming hole or taking in the beauty of a cascading waterfall. Within a 60-mile radius of Branson, you’ll find plenty of hidden gems where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Here are the best spots to take a dip this summer—just a short drive from Branson!
1. Moonshine Beach – Table Rock Lake
- Location: Branson, MO (10 min from downtown)
- Best for: Sandy beach swimming, picnicking, and family fun
- Why go? One of the only sandy beaches on Table Rock Lake with clear, warm water and excellent amenities.
For a true beach experience in the Ozarks, Moonshine Beach is the place to be. Located on the shores of Table Rock Lake, this sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a picnic. With designated swim areas, restrooms, and plenty of space, it’s a great spot for families looking for a safe and scenic way to cool off.
2. Table Rock Lake – Various Swim Areas
- Location: Multiple access points near Branson
- Best for: Open-water swimming, boating, paddleboarding
- Why go? A massive, crystal-clear lake with plenty of places to swim and explore.
If you prefer a more natural swimming experience, Table Rock Lake offers numerous places to take a dip. Public access points like Indian Point, State Park Marina, and Dewey Short Visitor Center provide great spots for swimming in the clear waters of the lake. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or just float in the sun—this lake is perfect for any water lover.
3. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park – Waterfalls & Streams
- Location: Lampe, MO (30 min from Branson)
- Best for: Shallow stream wading, waterfall photography, hiking
- Why go? Beautiful waterfalls and crystal-clear creeks winding through a scenic nature park.
Dogwood Canyon isn’t just a hiking paradise—it’s also home to stunning waterfalls and streams where visitors can wade and cool off. While there aren’t designated swimming areas, the cool water of the natural rock-bottom creeks offers a refreshing break on a hot summer day. The waterfalls within the park create picturesque spots to soak your feet and enjoy nature.
4. Long Creek at Table Rock Lake
- Location: Ridgedale, MO (20 min from Branson)
- Best for: Swimming, fishing, kayaking
- Why go? A quieter, more secluded area of Table Rock Lake with calmer waters.
Long Creek is a great alternative for those looking for a less crowded swimming experience. Located in the southern part of Table Rock Lake, this area features calmer, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s also a great launch point for kayaking or paddleboarding.
5. The James River at Hootentown Canoe Rental
- Location: Crane, MO (45 min from Branson)
- Best for: River swimming, floating, and kayaking
- Why go? A scenic river with clear water, perfect for a day of floating and swimming.
The James River is a classic Ozarks float trip destination, but it's also a fantastic place to swim. Near Hootentown, you’ll find clear, calm waters surrounded by scenic bluffs and shaded riverbanks. Many visitors enjoy combining a float trip with swimming along the way.
6. Lake Taneycomo – Branson Landing & Rockaway Beach
- Location: Branson, MO (5 min from downtown) & Rockaway Beach, MO (15 min from Branson)
- Best for: Cold-water wading, fishing, kayaking
- Why go? One of the coldest lakes in the Midwest—perfect for cooling off fast!
Lake Taneycomo is known for its cold water, thanks to being fed by Table Rock Dam. While it may not be a traditional swimming lake, wading in the shallow areas at Branson Landing or Rockaway Beach can be a refreshing way to beat the summer heat. Just be prepared for a chilly dip!
7. Busiek State Forest & Creek
- Location: Highlandville, MO (35 min from Branson)
- Best for: Shallow creek wading, hiking, exploring nature
- Why go? A peaceful natural area with a shallow creek for wading and cooling off.
Busiek State Forest offers miles of hiking trails along a clear Ozark creek where visitors can wade and splash in the cool water. The forest is home to beautiful rock formations, scenic overlooks, and quiet swimming spots. It’s the perfect place for a nature-filled escape.
8. Bull Shoals Lake – Theodosia Recreation Area
- Location: Theodosia, MO (50 min from Branson)
- Best for: Lake swimming, boating, camping
- Why go? A quieter alternative to Table Rock Lake with excellent swimming areas.
Just a short drive from Branson, Bull Shoals Lake offers another fantastic option for lake swimming. Theodosia Recreation Area features clear, calm water and is much less crowded than Table Rock Lake. It’s a great place for a peaceful day on the water.
- Location: Cassville, MO (55 min from Branson)
- Best for: Cold-water wading, waterfall viewing, hiking
- Why go? A beautiful spring-fed river and scenic waterfalls in a state park setting.
Roaring River State Park is well-known for its trout fishing, but its cold, clear waters also make for a great place to cool off. The river is fed by a massive spring and winds through the park, offering small swimming holes and shallow wading areas.
10. Table Rock State Park Marina Cove
- Location: Branson, MO (15 min from downtown)
- Best for: Family-friendly swimming, boat rentals, paddleboarding
- Why go? A great spot for those who want to swim near Branson without traveling far.
For those looking for a family-friendly swimming spot with easy access to rentals and amenities, the cove at Table Rock State Park Marina is ideal. The water is calm, making it perfect for kids to splash around, and you can also rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the lake further.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of places to swim and cool off near Branson this summer. Whether you prefer sandy beaches, cold spring-fed rivers, or lakefront spots, there’s something for everyone within an hour’s drive. So grab your swimsuit, pack some snacks, and dive into the natural beauty of the Ozarks!