I’m sharing two of our favorite swimming holes that are family-tested and mom-approved. Both spots are within a few hours’ drive from the East Valley and offer safe, exciting water play for kids of all ages.
Arizona summers call for one thing: water. And while splash pads and backyard pools are great, there’s something magical about loading up the car and heading north to find a hidden swimming hole surrounded by nature.
These kid-friendly spots are more than just a place to cool off—they’re a full-on family adventure, complete with scenic drives, gentle hikes, and unforgettable memories.
Today I’m sharing two of our favorite swimming holes that are perfect for families looking to mix a little fun with fresh air. Each one offers something unique—from stunning turquoise waterfalls to shady spots ideal for a picnic lunch—and they’re all doable with kids in tow.
Before you go, be sure to pack more water than you think you’ll need, bring plenty of snacks, and wear proper footwear for rocky, often slippery terrain.
Always practice Leave No Trace principles to help protect these natural spaces for other families to enjoy. And keep in mind—both spots have limited or no cell service, so plan your route ahead of time and let someone know where you’re going.
Looking for more ways to beat the heat this summer? Check out our roundup of 6 Family Friendly Hikes in Cooler Weather to Beat the AZ Heat for even more outdoor inspiration outside the East Valley.
Xo,
East Valley Moms
Fossil Creek Waterfall Trail near Strawberry, Arizona with Kids
Fossil Creek is a desert oasis and one of Arizona’s most stunning natural swimming holes—perfect for adventurous families with older kids. The creek is fed by a spring that pumps over 20,000 gallons of water per minute, creating lush, green scenery that feels worlds away from the desert. The water stays a refreshing 70 degrees year-round and is crystal clear with a bright blue-green hue thanks to the high mineral content.
Permitting/fees:
Permits are required for this trail. Passes are available 30 days in advance and then the remaining passes are released three days prior to the date. Permits go live at 8 a.m. here.
Must-knows for Fossil Creek with kids
- The road to get to the trailhead is rough–very rough. You’ll drive about 15 mph for nearly an hour over rocks, bumps and more. You don’t need four-wheel drive for it; my SUV mom car did fine, but it’s tedious.
- This hike is best for school aged kids or babies/tots who still fit into a hiking backpack. It’s just over a mile in each direction.
- Wear swim suits for water play when you get to the waterfall; some hikers packed floats and inflatables which was fun.
- Pack a waterproof picnic; you’ll want to linger here and play for hours!
Water Wheel Falls near Payson, AZ with Kids
Water Wheel Falls is one of the most accessible and kid friendly swimming holes in Arizona. The short 0.6-mile hike to the falls follows the East Verde River and features plenty of shallow pools along the way that are perfect for wading, splashing, and skipping rocks.
The highlight is a small cascade waterfall that flows into a wide, calm pool—ideal for swimming or floating.
This is a great “starter spot” for young hikers or families with toddlers, as you can explore as much or as little of the trail as you like. There are shaded areas for relaxing and plenty of smooth rocks for picnicking, plus a few picnic tables. (And yes, there’s vault toilets.)
The first time I took my son he was 18 months old and still was in a hiking backpack. We hiked about half the trail before the smooth, slippy rock scramble section and then turned around for shaded creek play.
Although we didn’t “finish” the trail, it is still one of my favorite memories hiking with him. The water play is great from the parking lot to the full swimming hole.
Family Tips:
- Go early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Watch for slippery rocks near the falls; it’s a flat trail, but there are slippy sections
- Bring floaties, nets, or small buckets for water play
- $8 parking fee (or FREE with America the Beautiful Pass!)
