Swimming holes are what Southeastern summers are all about. And while the Chattanooga area is home to some seriously incredible places to take a natural dip, it's also home to plenty of private land with a number of tricky access issues. So, disclaimer: It's likely that your favorite Chattanooga swimming hole won't appear on this list. That said, even though some of the swimming holes mentioned below require a bit more drive time than others, they're all totally worth the effort in the end—especially on hot and humid summer days. So, without further ado, here's a sampling of some of our favorite places in the Chattanooga area to (legally) cool off if you prefer your swimming pools to be of the natural persuasion.

Located atop the western edge of Lookout Mountain on the Cumberland Plateau, Cloudland Canyon State Park is arguably one of Georgia's finest state parks and is only a short 45-minute drive outside of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Whether you're looking for excellent camping opportunities, stunning views, or a one-of-a-kind hiking experience, this Appalachian river gulch offers something for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Your night out on the town starts and ends with Station Street. Experience great food and cocktails, live comedy and music and plenty of dancing all within a few hundred feet of Chattanooga's ultimate entertainment destination