Looking to cool off without spending a dime this summer? Southwest Ohio is full of hidden gems where families can enjoy a free swim—no splash pads, admission fees, or memberships required. From state park beaches to natural swimming holes and public pools, here are the best spots to dive into on a budget.
State Park Beaches (Always Free)
Ohio’s state parks are one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to free swimming. All of these parks feature public beaches where you can swim, relax, and enjoy nature—no entry fee required.
East Fork State Park (Clermont County)
This large lake features a designated sandy beach, changing areas, and plenty of space to spread out. Just 35 minutes from Cincinnati, it’s a family favorite for good reason.
Stonelick State Park (Clermont County)
A more low-key beach surrounded by woods and wildlife. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for younger kids or families who want to avoid the crowds.
Caesar Creek State Park (Warren County)
With a wide sandy beach and plenty of shoreline, Caesar Creek is ideal for a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and even fossil hunting nearby.
Cowan Lake State Park (Clinton County)
This scenic park features calm waters and a gently sloping beach—great for beginner swimmers or a laid-back lake day.
Hueston Woods State Park (Preble County)
Tucked near the Indiana border, this park’s beach offers a perfect summer getaway, complete with scenic hikes and picnic spots.
Natural Swimming Holes & Rivers
If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, these rivers and creeks offer a rustic and adventurous swimming experience:
Little Miami River (Loveland area)
While parts of this river are popular for tubing, there are also shallow areas and rope swings perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. Look near the Loveland Bike Trail or Corwin Dam.
Caesar Creek River Section (near the lake)
Venture beyond the beach and find secluded spots along the Caesar Creek trails where you can enjoy a natural, peaceful swim.
Whitewater River (west of Cincinnati)
This clean and calm river flows near Harrison, OH, and has several public access points. Locals love it for kayaking and wading.
Twin Creek (Germantown MetroPark)
Known for its clear water and natural beauty, Twin Creek has calm sections perfect for swimming or floating in the sun.
Free (or Nearly Free) Public Pools
While most pools require a small fee, these locations stand out for offering free admission, often sponsored by local recreation departments:
Dyer Sprayground & Pool – Cincinnati
917 Hackberry St, Cincinnati, OH
Offers free open swim sessions during the summer, including a splash area and lifeguards on duty.
Hirsch Recreation Center Pool – Cincinnati
3630 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH
Admission is free. A great option for families with young swimmers looking for a traditional pool experience.
LeBlond Pool – Cincinnati
2335 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati, OH
A small neighborhood pool with free entry and occasional family-friendly events.
Pleasant Ridge Pool – Cincinnati
5915 Ridge Ave, Cincinnati, OH
Offers free swim days throughout the season. Check with the Cincinnati Recreation Commission for upcoming dates.
Dayton Public Pools – Various Locations
Look for Free Swim Days at Lohrey, Northwest, and Fairview Pools. These are usually promoted through Dayton Recreation’s social media channels.
 Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience
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Stick to designated swim areas when visiting lakes—swimming outside these zones can be dangerous.
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Check for water advisories after storms or heavy rainfall, which can affect water quality and safety.
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Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and extra towels, especially if you’re heading to rocky or natural spots.
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Leave no trace—pack out all trash to help keep these free spaces clean and open to the public.
Author: Southwest Ohio
Midwest Parenting Publications published Cincinnati Parent for over 35 years and Dayton Parent for over 7 years. In 2021, the two merged to become Southwest Ohio Parent, expanding our reach into the growing Southwest Ohio market. At SW Ohio Parent, we proudly serve as the top parenting resource magazine and website for Cincinnati, Dayton, and the surrounding communities. Every day, we strive to deliver exactly what our readers need and are 100% dedicated to providing parents with the most trusted resources to find local events for every day of the week, community service organizations, and businesses that cater to the family market.