Splish, splash... it's summertime in Eau Claire, WI! The region is filled with wet and wild swimming holes that the whole family will enjoy, and we're here to make the first splash! Explore waterfalls, swimming obstacle courses, and even cliffs that swimmers can jump off and discover. So, water you waiting for?! Dive into our list of the best places to swim in Eau Claire below!
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Get YoUr Gear!
Prep your beach bags for a swim day in Eau Claire, and get all the gear you need at Scheels! Scheels has everything that the whole family needs for a day at the beach, on the river, or at the pool. Shop swimsuits, goggles, pool floats, beach totes, footwear, towels, sun hats, sunscreen, life jackets, water skis, wakeboards, paddle boards, and so much more. Swimmers of all ages can secure their gear at Eau Claire's Scheels store, and shoppers can get all the supplies and equipment they'll need for other summer excursions in the area. Stop in at the shop, and visit their website to learn more!
Big Falls County Park
This county park is truly a hidden gem and an iconic summer location near Eau Claire! Explore Big Falls County Park, an area covered by waterfalls, sandy beaches, picnic tables, and swimming spots on the Eau Claire River. The park can be accessed from an east or west entrance, and both require a short walk to the river and falls area. Pack your snacks, sunscreen, and swimsuits– it's time to swim at Big Falls!
Lake Altoona
Catch a wave at the Lake Altoona County Park beach this summer! This is a 13-acre park that includes a nature trail, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and more. The beach is perfect for swimming on hot summer days and watching the Eau Claire Ski Sprites perform on Sunday and Wednesday evenings. Visit the link to learn more about how to explore Lake Altoona this season!
Stoney Creek RV Resort
This man-made lake will have you feeling like you're on a beach somewhere in the tropics! Morey's Oasis at Stoney Creek RV Resort is located in Osseo, WI, and features a one-acre pond, a Wibit Inflatable system, and a wrap-around beach. The pond is located within the resort and is available for campers or day-pass visitors. Morey's Oasis offers a clean beach to build sandcastles, wild water slides, and more obstacle courses in the water. Check out Stoney Creek's swimming facility and how to secure your passes!
Half Moon Lake
Head to Half Moon Beach in downtown Eau Claire for a relaxing beach and swimming spot. Half Moon Lake is a common place for Eau Claire locals & visitors to cool off in the summer and spend their days off. The beach is often filled with visitors picnicking, playing beach games, and soaking up that good summer sunshine!
Splash Pad & Stream in River Prairie
River Prairie Park is your family's go-to sweet spot for all things summer! The splash pad is open for the season from 8 AM - 8 PM as a quick, cool-off adventure. The crafted stream runs through River Prairie Park and is shallow enough for kids to safely enjoy with supervision. The stream flows along flowers & stunning landscaping, under small bridges, and past sculptures in the park. Following an afternoon at the splash pad & stream, grab an ice cream treat at 44 Below to complete a summer day in River Prairie!
Lake Eau Claire County Park
Take a day trip to Augusta, WI, to experience Lake Eau Claire County Park. The park's beach is open to the public while the lake is a common fishing spot in Augusta. This lake is the origin of the Eau Claire River which leads to some of the best attractions in the area like Beaver Creek Reserve, Big Falls County Park, Lake Altoona, River Prairie, and the Phoenix Park in downtown Eau Claire! Find out more ways to explore Augusta on your day trip here.
Dunnville State Wildlife Area
Travel along the Chippewa River State Trail and stumble upon the Dunnville State Wildlife Area. The Dunnville Bottoms recreational area is located at the intersection of the Chippewa River State Trail and Red Cedar Trail near Downsville and Menomonie, WI. Here at the Bottoms, you'll find a beach packed with visitors picnicking, swimming in the shallow areas of the river, playing beach games, fishing, kayaking, and more. Visitors come from all over to experience the beauty, relaxation, and summer views at this hidden gem.
Mt. Simon
Mt. Simon brings swimming to a whole new level in Eau Claire and requires a little more bravery! Throughout the summer, find Mt. Simon hikers cliff-jumping into the Dell's Pond/Chippewa River waters. There are multiple short cliffs to jump off of and ropes to help you climb back up out of the waters. The river is not supervised, so cliff-jumping should be attempted at your own risk. Learn more about Mt. Simon Park and more ways to enjoy the views, trails, and park amenities!
Coon Fork Lake County Park
Coon Fork Lake County Park is another swimming spot in Augusta, WI, that's a dreamy location in the summertime. The park is used for camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and more. While the beach offers perfect access for swimming, the facility also offers rowboat, canoe, and kayak rentals to discover the waters beyond the beach. Make an entire weekend out of it, and book a campsite to get the full Coon Fork Lake County Park experience this summer!
Fairfax Park
Nothing screams summer like a sunny afternoon at the community pool! Fairfax Park is home to a leisure pool with a 3-story waterslide, diving well, and kid's play area. Fairfax pool often holds themed events like "Under the Sea Week," "Pirates Week," "Olympics Week," and even a "Doggy Swim Fest." There are also "Dollar Swim Days" where visitors only pay $1 admission if they're dressed on a theme, bring specific items, and more. Check out their Pool Events Calendar to see more!
Bonus! Tubing on the Chippewa River
Suit up to experience one of the most Eau Claire-esque summer activities– let's go tubing! Dip into the waters a little further by floating down the Chippewa River. When visiting Loopy's Grill & Saloon in Wheaton, WI, you can rent river tubes or kayaks and be shuttled upstream to the Chippewa Falls boat landing. Begin your 3-hour float back to Loopy's, and sit back, relax, and take in the views of the Chippewa River. You can also put your tubes in at Phoenix Park and float a short distance to UW-Eau Claire. Visit our tubing page to see more maps, information, and rental spots for tubes in Eau Claire!