Oh, the bittersweet dog days of summer. Soothed by seemingly endless sun and mellowed by the heat, we find it impossible to believe that autumn foliage, hot apple cider, and sweater weather could be just around the bend. What else to do then, but plan a blowout Labor Day weekend? Head for a wild swimming spot, bring along the cooler, and, if you’re really devoted, barbecue for 72 hours straight. Whether you plan to rent out a cabin in the woods or live it up in the city, hit up these destinations while you have the chance. Soon, winter will be back and … well, we don’t want to talk about it.

Crowds of sunburnt, irritable swimmers. Eye-watering levels of chlorine. That one kid who’s prone to swim trunk accidents. There are a lot of reasons why heading to the local pool when the heatwave hits is a better idea in theory than in practice. But when the mercury climbs, you’ve gotta find a way to cool off somehow. That’s where your local water hole retreat comes in. These spots are safe and sanctioned for swimming, but also offer cooling water, chemical-free paddling, and the chance to practice your best backstroke — all while surrounded by trees, open skies, and even the odd critter or two. Throw in some picnic supplies and change the status on your summer to “solved.”