Natural swimming hole
Cowley Lake Falls
Waterfall · Kansas
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Cowley Lake Falls spills about 25 feet over a red rock face at the west end of the 84-acre Cowley State Fishing Lake, off US-166 near Dexter, and was named one of America's most beautiful waterfalls by Yahoo Travel. Guides describe the pool below the falls as a swimming hole where visitors wade and swim, best with water shoes. The falls only flow when the lake is high enough to spill, so they can be dry in low-water periods.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Depth | Shallow pool below the falls (per visitor guides) |
| Best season | April-June |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Small parking lot at the west end of Cowley State Fishing Lake, 20467 US Hwy 166, Dexter |
| Amenities | picnic area, primitive campsites, fishing lake |
| County | Cowley County |
| Nearest town | Dexter |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; the descent to the base is steep, rough, and undeveloped, and broken glass has been reported on the trail, so wear sturdy shoes; never dive, as depth changes with lake level |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Cowley Lake Falls?
Yes — Cowley Lake Falls is listed as a natural swimming spot in Kansas. Heads-up: No lifeguard; the descent to the base is steep, rough, and undeveloped, and broken glass has been reported on the trail, so wear sturdy shoes; never dive, as depth changes with lake level. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Cowley Lake Falls require reservations?
No reservations are required at Cowley Lake Falls based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Cowley Lake Falls?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Cowley Lake Falls?
The best season is typically April-June.