Swimming holes by town
Swimming Holes in Safford, Arizona
5 natural swimming holes
If Safford is home base, you're spoiled for choice: 5 natural swimming holes appear in our listings for this area. Bonita Creek anchors the local list, and Gila River (Gila Box RNCA) rounds out the highlights. They all fall in Graham County. Expect a spread: 2 springs, 1 creek, 1 lake, and 1 river.
Swimming holes in Safford
- Bonita Creek
A spring-fed desert creek running gin-clear through a cottonwood canyon near the Gila Box.
- Gila River (Gila Box RNCA)
The Gila River squeezes through the Gila Box canyon with cliff-walled pools and sandy beaches in a BLM conservation area.
- Hot Well Dunes
Two solar-fed concrete tubs bubbling with 106-degree mineral water, improbably set in the middle of a 2,000-acre OHV dune playground near Safford.
- Riggs Lake
Riggs Lake perches at 8,600 feet atop the Pinaleno Mountains with a small, clear surface for summer swims.
- Roper Lake Hot Spring
A natural hot spring bubbles up through the lakebed of Roper Lake, walled into a stone soaking area on a small island reached by footbridge.
Frequently asked questions
How many swimming holes are in Safford, AZ?
Our directory lists 5 natural swimming holes in and around Safford, Arizona, across Graham County. New spots are added as they're verified.
What kinds of swimming holes are in Safford?
The 5 listings cover 2 springs, 1 creek, 1 lake, 1 river. See each listing for details on access and conditions.
Which swimming hole near Safford should I try first?
Bonita Creek is a well-documented local listing. A spring-fed desert creek running gin-clear through a cottonwood canyon near the Gila Box. Full details, maps, and safety notes are on its page.
Do swimming holes near Safford charge a fee?
Some do — state parks and popular preserves often charge a day-use or parking fee. Each listing shows reported fee info where known.