Natural swimming hole
Castor River Shut-Ins
River · Missouri
About this swimming hole
Missouri's only pink granite shut-ins squeeze the Castor River through 1.5-billion-year-old rock into a 4-foot waterfall and a crystal-clear swimming hole. A short hike leads to the top of the shut-ins, with wading downstream through pools and riffles. Snorkelers prize the colorful darters and smallmouth bass visible in the gin-clear water.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 70s in summer |
| Depth | crystal-clear swimming hole below the shut-ins |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | conservation area lot; short hike |
| County | Madison County |
| Nearest town | Fredericktown |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; no restrooms; rocky paths; limited cell service |
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 Castor River Shut-Ins?
Yes — Castor River Shut-Ins is listed as a natural swimming spot in Missouri. Reported water temperature: 70s in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; no restrooms; rocky paths; limited cell service. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Castor River Shut-Ins require reservations?
No reservations are required at Castor River Shut-Ins based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Castor River Shut-Ins?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Castor River Shut-Ins?
The best season is typically May-September.