Go For A Swim!

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Swim, Paddle or Float

Gainesville and Alachua County is home to a variety of swimming options ranging from freshwater springs to Olympic-sized swim lanes. Kids can enjoy shallow swim zones, water slides, splash pads and a climbing wall. Whether you’re after a peaceful dip in nature or a lively day out with the family, there’s a swimming location to match every mood and occasion throughout the year.

olympic size pool at cuscowilla nature and retreat center

Swim, play, and unwind at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center with a refreshing mix of outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Open to the public, the expansive grounds feature walking trails, shaded picnic areas, sport courts, an 18-hole disc golf course, and wide-open green spaces perfect for play or relaxation.

Cool off all summer long in the Olympic-sized swimming pool, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (weather permitting). Daily and seasonal swim passes are available and can be purchased onsite or online by clicking “Register & Reserve” and then “Pool Pass”, under the Memberships tab. Exact change is appreciated for cash payments.

Looking for a place to host your next celebration or event? Cuscowilla is also available to book for private events including birthday parties, weddings, reunions, sporting events and more.

people swimming at poe springs

Poe Springs is a natural treasure inviting visitors to swim in its crystal-clear spring, paddle along the Santa Fe River, and enjoy a full day of outdoor adventure. Open to the public, the spring and park are ideal for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a scenic spot to relax or play.

Park amenities include shaded picnic shelters, pavilions, play areas, multi-purpose fields, volleyball courts, and barbecue grills. Loop trails wind through the park’s hardwoods, and a scenic boardwalk leads through a cypress swamp directly to the spring. A boat launch and dock provide access to the Santa Fe River for canoes, kayaks, and other small watercraft.

Rentals are available through Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures or inquire at the park.

The Poe Springs lodge and pavilions are available for private rental, perfect for reunions, celebrations, and group events.

swimmer in pool

The Olympic-sized swimming pool is heated and open year-round. Enjoy two one-meter and two three-meter diving boards in addition to diving towers. The water slide offers fun for kids and adults alike. For toddlers and children, the splashpad offers fun in the sun. The pool is located within Albert “Ray” Massey Recreation Center.

swimming pool lanes

Located within the Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Complex, the Dwight H. Hunter pool is ideal for exercise and sports training, featuring multiple 50-meter swim lanes. It is cooled in the summer, heated in the winter and is open year-round. A shallow section and splash pad are great for young children while the water slide offers fun for all ages.

kids at swimming pool

Enjoy one-meter and three-meter diving boards in addition to short-course lap lanes. The unique climbing wall offers a fun challenge for all ages. The pool is located within the T.B. McPherson Recreation Center.

Explore over 100 miles of trails in Alachua County. Hike shaded trails, paddle the water or plan a picnic at a scenic nature park. Uncover diverse ecosystems, where you can find lush forests and freshwater springs to expansive prairies and winding rivers.

Discover parks, trails and all the ways to enjoy the great outdoors.