Bath Lake Swimming Hole
A refreshing natural swimming hole in Medicine Park, OK, featuring picturesque waterfalls, scenic trails, and a charming atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm water, fewer crowds
Bath Lake Swimming Hole
Best Time
Warm water, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refreshing natural swimming hole in Medicine Park, OK, featuring picturesque waterfalls, scenic trails, and a charming atmosphere.
"This place is just refreshing and beautiful. The water falls make the view that much more extraordinary!"
🏊♀️ Swim Fee & Parking
There's a $3 per person swim fee (over 6), but parking is free! :moneybag:
🧊 Ice Chests Welcome
Bring your ice chest with non-glass containers for snacks and drinks. :ice_cube:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Swimming Hole
Bath Lake
Refreshing waters perfect for a summer dip, with smooth surfaces ideal for swimming.
Picturesque Falls
Near Bath Lake
Stunning waterfalls that enhance the natural beauty and create an extraordinary view.
Rocky Trails and Bridges
Surrounding Bath Lake
Explore scenic trails winding through large rocks and charming little bridges.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Bath Lake
What to Bring for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Going to Medicine Park in mid-June, wondered about must sees/do's in the area. We'll be coming from Locust Grove, so anything along the way would be great too.
🏊♀️ Swim Fee & Parking
There's a $3 per person swim fee (over 6), but parking is free! :moneybag:
🧊 Ice Chests Welcome
Bring your ice chest with non-glass containers for snacks and drinks. :ice_cube:
update! went to Wichita mountain national wildlife refuge.
What are some good weekend trips within a ~5ish hour drive at most of OKC?
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved pets are welcome to join the fun! :dog:
🎣 Designated Fishing Area
Note the area designated for fishing only if you plan to cast a line. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Drivable Vacation Spots
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊♀️ Swim Fee & Parking
There's a $3 per person swim fee (over 6), but parking is free! :moneybag:
🧊 Ice Chests Welcome
Bring your ice chest with non-glass containers for snacks and drinks. :ice_cube:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved pets are welcome to join the fun! :dog:
🎣 Designated Fishing Area
Note the area designated for fishing only if you plan to cast a line. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚽 Restroom Situation
There's one public restroom, but it can be basic. Bring your own toilet paper! :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bath Lake is a highly recommended natural swimming spot praised for its refreshing waters, picturesque waterfalls, and scenic rocky trails. Visitors appreciate the free parking and pet-friendly atmosphere, making it a great value for families and budget travelers. Some minor concerns include the limited restroom facilities and occasional trash in the lake, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"We came here in October and it was beautiful. I would not swim myself, but it looked like it would be a good swimming hole for other people. The area is very picturesque and clean. In the future, I will probably rent a cabin in this area."
Tabitha Dalton
"We will definitely be back. Love the falls, the huge ricks. The swimming holes. The little bridges. The trails. The whole vibe of this place was wonderful. They have restrooms. There is a place to buy or blow up your floats. Pets are welcome. Was not over crowded. Cute shops and places to eat. Free parking. A hidden treasure"
GiGi Love
"I came here with the kids for the first time ever. Beautiful! Just beautiful! The water falls make the view that much more extraordinary! It cost us $3 for everyone over 6 years old. There was a little canopy with people sitting at it which is who you paid. There is fish in the water but honestly that added to the positive factors for us! The kids enjoyed attempting and failing at catching them with their hands. They do have an area designated to fishing only however. Theres plenty of parking in the parking lot and it's free. You're allowed to take an ice chest as long as you don't have any glass. It's also on a strip with a lot of restaurants and shopping venues. We spent hours here and it was an amazing addition to our weekend getaway. I would highly recommend going here if you're visiting!"
Heather Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bath Lake is located in Medicine Park, Oklahoma. Many visitors enjoy taking scenic back highways to get there, avoiding interstates for a more relaxed journey.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available in the lot near Bath Lake, making it convenient for visitors. :car:
Yes, you can drive directly to Bath Lake. The area is accessible by car, and parking is readily available. :oncoming_automobile:
While specific routes can vary, many travelers suggest exploring non-interstate highways for a more scenic drive towards Medicine Park from areas like Locust Grove.
Public transport options to Bath Lake are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee of $3 per person for swimming, applicable to individuals over 6 years old. :ticket:
Yes, parking at Bath Lake is completely free, which is a great bonus for visitors. :parking:
Advance booking is generally not required for Bath Lake. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival. :calendar:
Bath Lake is typically open for swimming during daylight hours, especially in warmer months. It's best to check local listings for specific seasonal hours. :clock10:
While specific group discounts aren't widely advertised, the $3 fee per person is quite reasonable for families. :familymanwomangirlboy:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the refreshing lake, explore nearby trails, admire the waterfalls, and enjoy the scenic rocky landscape. Pets are also welcome. :hiking_boot:
Absolutely! Kids enjoy the swimming holes, the chance to see fish, and the overall natural beauty. The $3 fee is also budget-friendly for families. :child:
Yes, pets are welcome at Bath Lake, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friends. :paw_prints:
There are restrooms available, though they can be basic. You can also find places to buy or blow up floats nearby. :restroom:
Crowds can vary. Weekends and peak summer days might be busier, but weekdays and off-season visits are generally less crowded. :people_hugging:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Bath Lake is located on a strip with many restaurants and shopping venues, offering plenty of dining options. :restaurant:
You can bring an ice chest with food and drinks, as long as it does not contain any glass containers. :ice_cream:
While dedicated picnic areas aren't explicitly mentioned, the scenic surroundings offer spots to enjoy your packed food. :picnic_table:
Medicine Park offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual eateries to more established restaurants, catering to different tastes. :forkandknifewithplate:
The reviews mention bringing an ice chest but specifically prohibit glass containers. It's best to assume alcohol is permitted if in non-glass containers, but check local regulations. :wine_glass:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque waterfalls, the unique rocky landscape, the charming bridges, and the clear swimming holes. The natural beauty offers many stunning shots. :camera:
Yes, the accessible trails and scenic viewpoints make it easy to find great spots for photography. Be mindful of other visitors. :iphone:
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. Golden hour can be particularly magical. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance. :aerial_drone:
The areas around the waterfalls and along the trails offer excellent vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture the essence of the place. :mountain_camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring an ice chest with snacks and drinks (no glass!), and consider water shoes for the rocky areas. While there's only one public restroom, it's a small inconvenience for a day filled with fun. Pets are also welcome, making it a great outing for the whole family, including furry members. :child::dog::moneywithwings:
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to avoid restaurant costs, and enjoy the natural beauty without expensive admission fees. The surrounding town of Medicine Park also offers various dining options that can fit different budgets. This spot provides a high value for a low cost, making it a gem for those watching their spending. :dollar_bank:
🐶 Pet Owners
Ensure your pet is on a leash where required and always clean up after them. While pets can't swim in the designated swimming areas, they can certainly enjoy the surrounding environment and trails with you. It's a great way to include your pets in your travel adventures. :leash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Medicine Park
The vibe of Medicine Park is consistently described as wonderful and refreshing. It's a place that feels like a hidden treasure, offering a peaceful escape with plenty to explore. Whether you're drawn by the natural swimming holes, the scenic trails, or the quaint town atmosphere, Medicine Park provides a memorable getaway.
Beyond Bath Lake, the surrounding area boasts other attractions like Lake Lawtonka, which offers a free day-use area for swimming. This proximity allows for a diverse range of outdoor recreation, making Medicine Park a versatile destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Swimming Hole Experience
While the main swimming hole is a highlight, the area also features smaller swimming spots and the picturesque falls that add to the allure. Visitors can bring floats to enhance their relaxation in the water. The presence of fish in the water, while not always a target for catching, adds to the natural ambiance for some.
It's worth noting that while the swimming is a major draw, some reviews mention small amounts of trash in the lake, indicating a need for continued maintenance. However, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many praising the refreshing nature of the water and the beauty of the surroundings.
Exploring the Natural Landscape
The waterfalls are another key natural feature, described as making the view 'extraordinary.' These cascades contribute to the picturesque setting, making it a beautiful place for photography and leisurely strolls. The combination of water features and rocky terrain creates a unique and engaging environment.
For those who enjoy hiking and exploring, the trails offer a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Medicine Park. The rocky formations provide interesting geological features, and the overall environment is conducive to a refreshing outdoor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit