In the DeKalb County city of Pine Lake, the community opens a beach on the neighborhood lake for swimming. However, swimming is limited to the beach and within the roped-off areas. There is designated swimming outside the ropes for adults ages 18 and older, but a signed waiver is required to venture out there. 

Located within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, this enormous granite formation overlooking the water draws the attention of all ages looking for a fun way to beat the heat. While the water here is approximately 15 feet deep, swimmers should take care when jumping in. Do not dive, and be prepared to touch the bottom. 

Covering 268 acres in Suwanne, this park includes a playground, pavilions, trails, and basketball courts, but the big draw is the bridge crossing over the Chattahoochee River. The (always chilly) water under the bridge also is a hit, attracting swimmers of all ages when the heat is on. 

As with any swimming hole on the ’hooch, it’s wise to be mindful of releases at Buford Dam upstream, which can sweep swimmers away. Call 770-945-1466, or toll free at 1-855-DAM-FLOW (1-855-326-3569), for the Buford Dam water release schedule.

Yet another option in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, this trail can be challenging for some, but it’s worth it when you reach the waterfall. (Alternately, take the easy paved path to the swimming hole). While many locals do swim in the water adjacent to the falls, swimming under or directly in front of the waterfall is not permitted. 

Just north of Atlanta, this 30-acre park offers pavilions, a playground, fishing, hiking, and, yes, swimming. In fact, there’s a built-in staircase leading down to the water, making it easily accessible to wade and swim. Also find a lot of rock outcroppings where swimmers can take a break in the water or work on their tans. 

Okay, so it might be closed for the 2018 season for the construction of upgrades, but for future reference, The Beach at Clayton County’s International Park is a blast. Around its spring-fed, 6-acre lake find sandy beaches, impressive slides, a splashy adventure land for the kiddos, and volleyball courts where Olympians competed in 1996.