Natural swimming hole

Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake

Lake · Alabama

About this swimming hole

The Bankhead National Forest's largest recreation area sits on Lewis Smith Lake and its day-use area is built around a swimming beach served by a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers. A 50-person group picnic pavilion sits next to the beach, with 53 family picnic units on the other side. The campground's four paved loops have 102 RV sites, and a 1.5-mile paved bicycle trail connects the campground to the day-use area.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Best seasonMay-October
Fees$10 per vehicle day use (up to six people, plus $1 per additional person, per the Forest Service fee schedule)
Reservations requiredNo
HoursDay-use hours; campground season runs mid-March through October 31
ParkingDay-use parking at 8079 Fall City Road, Jasper; day-use fee applies
Amenitiesrestrooms, campground, picnic tables
CountyWinston County
Nearest townJasper
Safety notesNo lifeguard; swim at the designated beach only and supervise children

Map

Official information

Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.

Nearby swimming holes

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake?

Yes — Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in Alabama. Heads-up: No lifeguard; swim at the designated beach only and supervise children. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.

Does Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake require reservations?

No reservations are required at Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake?

Reported fee info: $10 per vehicle day use (up to six people, plus $1 per additional person, per the Forest Service fee schedule). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.

When is the best time to visit Clear Creek Recreation Area - Lewis Smith Lake?

The best season is typically May-October.

Keep exploring

Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026