Spring-fed pool in Mayes County popular destination during hot times

SALINA, Okla - There's a little place off the beaten path that locals have known about for years called the Blue Hole. It's a spring-fed pool located in Mayes County, seven miles east of Salina, where people go to beat the heat.

Wanda Chancellor has run the camping and swimming grounds for 33 years. Admission is $5 per car, and you have to follow her rules, which include no alcohol.

"I don't allow liquor in here. They bring it in sometime, but I don't allow them to stay if they do," said Chancellor.

The long-time owner doesn't spend a dime on advertising. She doesn't have to.

"Some friends of ours used to do all the maintenance here, and that's how we found out about it," said Bob Buckles, who brings his grandchildren here every summer.

First-timers are always in for a shock.

"I didn't think it'd be as cold as everybody made it out to be. But when I stepped in, I was very proven wrong," said Brad Grimm. "I felt like Shamu in the arctic."

Some visitors are surprised that more people don't know about the swimming hole.

"If everybody knew, you wouldn't be able to get in here," said Buckles.

Everybody doesn't know, and that's probably why it remains a hidden treasure.

Directions:

From Salina, OK, head east on Kenwood Road for seven miles. The Blue Hole will be located to the south.

Click here for a map.