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When summer rolls around in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we Minnesotans love to get outside. And when the heat really kicks in, we like to head to one of our thousands of lakes, a thrilling water park, a neighborhood splash pad, or a favorite swimming hole. There are even a few swimming holes that feel like water parks. One of these awesome spots is the Big Fork River, where it flows through the town of Big Falls, MN. When water levels are low enough, it creates pools and small rapids around the rocky bed, making the river feel just like a natural water park in Minnesota. Here's everything you need to know about this summertime swimming haven.
Discover One of the Best Swimming Holes in Minnesota
Big Falls, MN, is a tiny town of fewer than 200 residents sitting on the Big Fork River in far northern Minnesota. It’s about 80 miles north of Grand Rapids and less than three hours from Duluth, making it a great Minnesota day trip destination from both cities. The river gives way to a series of rapids and waterfalls, where it flows through town, giving the community its name. And when the river levels are low, here, it creates a series of pools and small cascades that are like… well, a water park.
The best place to access the river for swimming is the Big Falls Campground and Horse Camp. Even better? The park has facilities, like picnic tables and restrooms, making it an ideal place to spend the day, so pack a lunch. So, on your visit, you’ll see a lot of locals swimming, jumping off the rocks, fishing, and having picnics when they’re not on the water. And, if you want to extend your time here, there are RV and tent campsites available from May to October.
You’ll find several natural entry points. And personal flotation devices are always a good idea for smaller children who want to enjoy the water. Pools of different depths and little cascades turn the river into a water adventure. The slack water below the rapids is perfect for enjoying from the seat of a canoe or a kayak. And if the water levels aren’t conducive to splashing, you’ll find the nearby trails perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-roading.
What To Know Before Visiting Big Fork River
My best tip is: before you leave for this or any swimming hole in Minnesota, always check water conditions to make sure they're ideal for swimming. When levels are high at Big Fork River, the rapids in this stretch are serious – they can reach class IV to class VI, and swimming would be dangerous. In spring, the river runs fast, cold, and deep, making it better for kayaking and rafting. In summer, the flow is much gentler, and the natural pools and rock formations are great for wading and sliding down.
That said, I’d advise wearing water shoes because the rocks are smooth and uneven, so it’s easy to slip if you're not careful. If you have little ones, be sure to keep an extra eye on them. Don’t forget sunscreen! If you plan to camp, consider booking in advance, especially in summer and on weekends. While in the area, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to visit Voyageurs National Park, which is teeming with over 200,000 acres of water.
If you’re heading up to Big Falls and would like to camp, visit the city of Big Fork’s website for information and reservations. Another spot that’s like a natural water park in Minnesota is the Lester River in Duluth, or if you want to see waterfalls instead, read on to discover some of the best waterfalls in Minnesota.
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