Beaches, pools and lakes are great summer fun, but if you want to amp it up a little, head to the old swimming hole. You know, the place where cool water runs just right, and far enough into the woods to make it feel like a secret find. The swimming hole, a part of American lore, is still very much with us — you just need to know where to look.

Just north of us, New Hampshire is dotted with fun, unique and accessible swimming holes. Some are accented by waterfalls; others are deep and still. All offer up a special escape which are “bucket list-worthy” for all ages.

Jackson Falls, Jackson, N.H.: In early spring, Jackson Falls roars down the high mountains of this town, over stones that send the water flying. But summer — especially late summer — those falls calm down to a nice flow, and create a place where you can dip in the cool water, slide down the smoothed stones like a waterslide, splash in a shallow pool or just soak in the surrounding water, forests and mountains.

Jackson Falls is easy get to. The tiny hamlet of Jackson is right off Route 16, just north of Conway. You simply turn up the street from town and drive alongside the falls until you find a spot to park. There are lots of picnic tables, but bring your own beach chairs and blanket and create your own water hole day camp. That simple access does bring audiences in the summer, but the long flow of rocks, cascades and falls provides plenty of ideal spots.

To round out your trip, grab a lunch to go (or baked goods — the cupcakes are sublime!) From J-Town Deli, just below the onset of the falls. Try the nearby Inn at Thorn Hill for an upscale choice (and under new ownership), or the 1785 Inn or Cabernet Inn just down the road for an affordable yet lovely option. All have an old-time feel that will compliment your swimming hole fun.

Lincoln, N.H.: The Lincoln region is dotted with amazing swimming holes. You can build an entire vacation around them.

The Old Hole is the tamer of the two, and worth a visit for all ages. Possibly the most popular “off-piste” place in the area, you won’t find solitude there. However you’ll see beauty, charm and a special experience.

Located on the backside of Main Street in Lincoln, it is accessible from easy-to-navigate paths. Despite the easy trail close to the hubbub of city, the Old Hole feels separated from all of the buzz, though it does draw a crowd. The drops there roll gently and permit you to walk along, wade, jump in deeper spots and even slide down the rocks like a natural waterslide.

And then there’s what locals call “the Agassiz,” that is located in Woodstock, up Lost River Road on the far side of Route 112. Drive along until you notice that there are no longer homes and the woods become thick. You’ll come across a building, and next to it you will see a little for around six cars. Park there and follow the path till you visit the Agassiz swimming hole.

Agassiz is a giant rock with a deep hole, and is a swimming hole spot for the not-so-faint-of-heart (see: teens and adventuresome adults). It’s only about 10 feet in diameter, however, the way the rocks flare out makes it jumpable and swimmable. It is possible to jump from 20 feet up at the maximum point or select lower points.

And the water. Because it comes straight from the mountains and right out of the earth, it is … brisk, in a fantastic way. The setting attracts fewer people than some other areas, but it is totally brag-worthy.

To improve your adventure, catch an eclectic lunch to-go in the Gypsy Cafe or more classic fare from Black Mountain Burger Co., both in Lincoln.

Echo Lake, N.H.: OK, so it is not tucked in the woods per se, but Echo Lake, at the base of Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch, does have that swimming hole feel, but with easier accessibility. Think of it as an introduction to backcountry swimming. The beach’s white sand is a perfect spot to settle in for the day. You can soak in the cool lake water as well as mountains around you. Spend the day, love the vibe and start your swimming hole bucket list.