Swimming in a natural swimming pool, or swimming hole, provides one of summer's best treats. To qualify as a natural swimming hole the area can not have man-made beaches, or walls, and the pool has to have been formed naturally rather than being dug out, as in some ponds. Michigan has enough lakes and streams that these natural swimming holes are plentiful if not always easy to find.
Two waterfalls on the Ocequeoc River lie within a few hundred feet of one another. At the base of each of the falls are small pools where hardy souls can brave the cold water and splash around. Most swimming has to be done against the current, so the actual swimming may not be suitable for less capable swimmers.
Ocequeoc Falls
Off State Route 68 and Ocequeoc Falls Road
This lake is part of the Pinckney State Recreation Area, but does not have a boat launch. This keeps the lake far more quiet and suitable for people looking to get away from the crowds. The lake has a small sand beach, and trees that hug its shores. Most of the visitors are locals who come to the lake often.
Pickerel Lake
Pinckney Recreation Area
east of Hankerd Road
This swimming hole can only be accessed after the spring floods have subsided and the water level has gone down. The falls is next to the road and easy to access. Like many swimming holes it is frequented mostly by locals. There is a small dam at the top of the falls, and a pool at their base.
Eagle River Falls
Off Michigan Route 26
Located at a small park
Burt Lake is a state park that has camping, hiking trails and a boat launch. It also provides full facilities including showers. The swimming beach is in a day use area, and is roped off for the safety of people who choose to swim. There is very little current, and a gentle slope on the bottom makes it a good swimming hole for children and less confident swimmers.
Burt Lake State Park
6635 State Park Drive
Indian River, MI 49749
