The summer heat is in full swing. This means backyard bbqs, playing outdoors until 9pm, and the sounds of cicadas and whippoorwills. During the day, trying to find the best spot to cool off has not been very easy this year with the low rainfall. A waterfall of a fun swim spot would be welcome. So, where are the places to cool off in NW Arkansas then?

If you don’t want to travel North to Branson’s several fun water parks or South to Parrot Bay in Ft Smith, you can stay local at these few fun spots.

1. Wilson Park Pool – Located in Wilson Park in the heart of the city, 675 N. Park Avenue, Fayetteville. This public pool is operated by City of Fayetteville Parks and Rec. Season passes are available but day passes are only $4 for adults. If you are a dog lover, you must attend the Drool in the Pool event held on Labor Day each year. Dogs are $10 each and owners are free. This is the last day the pool is open as well.
2. Springdale Aquatic Center – Located at 1100 Watson Ave in Springdale. This city run pool offers splash pads, slides, deep areas, and diving boards. Pavilion rentals are also available. Admission is only $4 fro adults.
3. Prairie Grove Aquatic Park – Located at 311 W Butler St in PG. This public park offers a pool and slides. Admission is $5. Pool can be rented for pool parties as well.
4. The Melvin Ford Aquatic Center – Located in Bentonville. The Melvin Ford Aquatic Center provides something for people of all ages, and swimming abilities. The 50-meter competition pool ranges from 3-8 feet deep and is great for recreational and lap swimming. For younger children, a one foot deep wading pool featuring a rain drop fountain is located on deck. For the more adventurous the Aquatic Center has a diving well 13 feet in depth equipped with two, one meter spring diving boards.
5. Devil’s Den State Park – Located in South Washington County in West Fork. This pool is part of the State Park system. It is a smaller pool so tends to be more crowded. Makes for a nice little get away amongst nature. Concessions are available as well.

Since these are all public pools, they tend to be crowded on the weekends. If you want something more private, consider purchasing a home with a pool or a home in a neighborhood with a community pool. There are several neighborhoods throughout the area with community pools. Please reach out to me for a list of pool homes available.

We hope you enjoy the summer months and stay cool!