Reviewed by: Pat Byington
3 refreshing swimming holes near Montgomery to visit before summer ends
Reading time: 3 minutes
It’s late summer in Alabama, but there is still plenty of warm weather left to enjoy! Water temperatures across Central Alabama rivers and lakes are currently at their peak warmth. If you’re looking to take a dip, here are three swimming holes near Montgomery that you should consider!
Top swimming holes near Montgomery for a quick trip
1. Corn Creek – Wetumpka
- Address: Off U.S. Hwy 231 (Gravel road across from Julia Tutwiler Prison), Wetumpka, AL 36092
- Distance from downtown Montgomery: ~20–25 minutes (~17 miles)
- Cost: Free
Tucked away right off Hwy. 231, Corn Creek is a hidden gem nestled in Wetumpka. Featuring shallow rapids, smooth rock shelves and clean running water with average depths around 1 to 3 feet, it’s an ideal playground for wading, splashing and exploring. Thrill-seekers will love the rope swing over a deeper pool downstream, while families can relax along the shaded, rocky banks. Be sure to wear sturdy water shoes for navigating the river rocks!
2. Coosa River access – Wetumpka
- Address: Access via Corn Creek Park or Gold Star Park (Downtown Wetumpka), Wetumpka, AL 36092
- Distance from downtown Montgomery: ~20–25 minutes (~17 miles)
- Cost: Free
You can easily access this scenic portion of the Coosa River directly through Corn Creek or near downtown Wetumpka. Known for its wide stretches and gentle current in shallow areas, this stretch of river is the perfect spot to bring your whole family, including your four-legged pets! Dogs love splashing in the shallows while humans float, kayak, or paddleboard along the riverway. It offers a rustic, open-air river setting that feels miles away from city life.
Family-friendly day trips + swimming holes near Montgomery
3. Chewacla State Park – Auburn
- Address: 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
- Distance from downtown Montgomery: ~45–50 minutes (~55 miles)
- Cost:
- Daily Admission: $5.00 for adults (ages 12–61); $3.00 for children (ages 4–11) and seniors (62+); Free for children under 4; Free for active military and veterans (with ID)
- Annual Park Passes: Individual ($105.00) | Family of up to 6 ($155.00) | Student ($75.00 with ID) | Senior 62+ ($55.00)
If you want a full-day park experience, head east toward Auburn. Chewacla State Park features a stunning 26-acre lake with a designated swimming area, sandy beach section and a picturesque stone waterfall.
Beyond swimming, your family can rent kayaks and canoes, explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails or set up a picnic under the covered pavilions. It’s a clean, well-maintained state park that delivers something fun for every age group.
Which of these cooling swimming holes near Montgomery are you packing up to visit before summer ends? Let us know on Facebook.
