Natural swimming hole
Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon
Creek · South Dakota
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
Devil's Bathtub is a natural pool and small rock waterslide on Cleopatra Creek in Spearfish Canyon, reached by a roughly 1.6-mile round-trip trail with several creek crossings. Travel South Dakota describes a 12-foot-deep blue depression in the creek bed shaped like a bathtub, with a small waterfall dropping into it. It is one of the most popular natural swimming holes in the northern Black Hills.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Depth | Main tub described as about 12 feet deep; water at the slide landing is much shallower - check depth before sliding |
| Best season | June-August |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Parking lot off Spearfish Canyon Highway (US-14A) near the Homestake Hydro Plant and Cleopatra Place |
| Amenities | Hiking trail, Natural rock waterslide |
| County | Lawrence County |
| Nearest town | Spearfish |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard. Rocks are slippery, the trail crosses the creek several times, and the water stays very cold; stay on the marked trail and respect adjoining private land so public access is preserved. |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon?
Yes — Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: No lifeguard. Rocks are slippery, the trail crosses the creek several times, and the water stays very cold; stay on the marked trail and respect adjoining private land so public access is preserved.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon require reservations?
No reservations are required at Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon?
The best season is typically June-August.
Is Devil's Bathtub, Spearfish Canyon safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: No lifeguard. Rocks are slippery, the trail crosses the creek several times, and the water stays very cold; stay on the marked trail and respect adjoining private land so public access is preserved.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.