OutsideAug 23, 2026
Best National Park Water Adventures to Take Before Summer Ends
From mellow rafting to swimming holes to backcountry lakes, these national parks offer a refreshing cool-down before autumn arrives.
17 things in this story
- Lake CrescentSightDeep, clear lake with mountains rising from the water.
- Log Cabin ResortPlaceRent a kayak for a short paddle to Devil's Punchbowl.
- Devil's PunchbowlSightRocky alcove where an iron bridge crosses a deep pool.
- Spruce Railroad TrailTrailEight-mile paved path following the northern edge of the lake.
- Elsewhere
- Assateague Island National SeashoreSightAssateague Island, United StatesExplore 12 miles of pristine beaches in your 4WD vehicle.
- Assateague OutfittersPlaceAssateague Island, United StatesOffers kayak and SUP rentals and guided tours.
- Enderts BeachSightRedwood National Park, United StatesRemote beach accessible by hike, famous for its tidepools.
- Wild and Scenic Smith RiverSightRedwood National Park, United StatesLargest free-flowing river system in California, perfect for duckies.
- Redwood RidesPlaceRedwood National Park, United StatesOffers rentals and guided trips on the Smith River.
- Deep CreekSightGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, United StatesWhitewater adventure with Class II drops, great for escaping heat.
- Deep Creek TrailheadSightGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, United StatesHike upstream on the Deep Creek Trail for tubing.
- Deep Creek Waterfalls LoopTrailGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, United States2.4-mile loop to see three stunning waterfalls.
- Flathead RiverSightGlacier National Park, United StatesMellow water ideal for wildlife watching and swimming breaks.
- Glacier GuidesPlaceGlacier National Park, United StatesOffers guided rafting trips on the Flathead River.
- Avalanche LakeSightGlacier National Park, United StatesBackcountry pool at the base of towering granite cliffs.
- John Muir TrailTrailYosemite National Park, United StatesFour-mile section to reach the Cathedral Lakes.
- Upper Cathedral LakeSightYosemite National Park, United StatesHas small, rocky beaches for venturing into clear water.
