The aquatics program entails multiple activities at various locations. First, there is Saunders pool which is in camp and where swimming and acquatic games take place. There is also nearby Jenks Lake, a short 1.5 miles hike from camp via a US Forest trail, where campers can enjoy canoeing and the lakefront setting, often with lunch being served in the special group area adjacent to where the canoes are kept. Campers can also enjoy the east fork of Barton Creek which is a very short distance from Saunders Pool.

Campers can take the Polar Bear swim challenge, consisting of a cool morning swim before breakfast. If a camper completes this challenge, he/she receives a special patch, courtesy of the Camp Arbolado alumni association.