40 Best Stock Tank Pool Ideas To Cool Off On Hot Summer Days

Having a pool can instantly transform your backyard into a holiday retreat, providing an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation right at home.

While building a traditional pool can be a costly and daunting task, especially for those with smaller yards or limited budgets, there are alternative options to consider. One such solution is the humble stock tank pool. These versatile containers can be easily adapted to fit any outdoor decor and require minimal setup and maintenance.

The beauty of using a stock tank as a pool lies in its simplicity. Merely find a flat area in your backyard, place the tank, and you’re ready to enjoy the warm sun and cool waters. To take your outdoor oasis to the next level, be sure to explore some of the best stock tank pool ideas and designs for inspiration.

Backyard Paradise

Backyard Paradise
Photo Credit: cassieloreewerner

Transforming your backyard into a summer haven is easier than you think, even if it’s on the smaller side. Start by repurposing a stock tank as an instant pool, complete with sun-kissed lounges for relaxing and taking in the scenery. Add some vibrant flowers and decorations with a summer theme to create a vacation-like atmosphere that will make your outdoor space feel like a getaway.

Bamboo-Walled Paradise

Bamboo-Walled Paradise
Photo Credit: cuckoo4design

For a harmonious blend of natural beauty and functional design, consider transforming your outdoor space with elements that complement the surrounding environment. When incorporating a stock tank into your backyard decor, opt for a nature-inspired aesthetic by draping it in bamboo, rather than decking. This organic approach will create a seamless transition between the tank and its surroundings.

Accentuate the arrangement with carefully placed stones, allowing their natural textures to add depth and visual interest to the space.

Below Deck

Below Deck
Photo Credit: accounts

When setting up a designated space for a stock tank pool, consider transforming it into a cozy retreat by incorporating a deck. This can seamlessly blend with your existing patio area or serve as a standalone oasis.

How To DIY Stock Tank Pool

How To DIY Stock Tank Pool

For those who require guidance on transforming a stock tank into a functional pool, we’ve crafted a step-by-step tutorial that’s sure to demystify the process. With our easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be empowered to tackle this project independently and be astonished by the ease of its completion.

California Dreamin’

California Dreamin’
Photo Credit: accounts

Consider using mulch as a cost-effective solution to zone off the pool area. This approach is particularly well-suited for backyards where the pool is situated near or within a garden featuring lush greenery. To further enhance the ambiance, incorporate flower pots with palm trees to create an exotic oasis that invites relaxation and tranquility in your own backyard.

Cocktail Pool Bar

Cocktail Pool Bar
Photo Credit: accounts

If you’re the life of the party, consider installing a stock pool tank to elevate your outdoor entertainment space. To ensure everyone stays refreshed and happy, it’s crucial to have a constant supply of cold drinks on hand. A creative outdoor bar constructed from repurposed furniture or a large galvanized bucket can be an excellent solution, keeping beers at the perfect temperature. This unique feature will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of your outdoor gatherings.

Cool in the Sand

Cool in the Sand
Photo Credit: accounts

For those seeking a piece of coastal serenity in their own backyards, this innovative concept presents a unique opportunity to bring the beach experience home. By digging a stock tank into the ground and creating a built-in water feature, property owners can enjoy a tranquil oasis that seamlessly blends with its surroundings.

nThe addition of a sand layer imbues the space with an exotic ambiance, while the elevated decks on either side of the pool ensure a clean and inviting area for relaxation. The overall effect is a stunning and functional outdoor retreat that perfectly captures the essence of coastal living.

Customized Bench

Customized Bench
Photo Credit: heywandererblog

If you’re not able to construct a stock tank on the ground or deck, there’s still a way to elevate its functionality. A simple yet effective solution is to surround it with a bench. With some basic lumber and screws, you can create a cozy seating area perfect for dipping your toes, reading a book, or soaking up some sunshine.

Customized in-Ground

Customized in-Ground

To create a unique and inviting spot to appreciate the stock tank’s soothing presence, Jen Steele Payne opted for an unconventional approach. By digging a hole in their yard and placing the tank within it, they achieved a customized built-in look that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape. Taking things to the next level, they chose to surround the tank either entirely or partially with a deck or other material that allows for upward construction.

The resulting platform serves as a tranquil retreat, providing a special spot to relax and unwind in the presence of the calming water feature.

DIY Tank Pool With Deck

DIY Tank Pool With Deck
Photo Credit: 73gmcsquare

Surrounding the stock tank with a deck not only elevates its aesthetic appeal but also defines a specific outdoor space within the yard. This dedicated area becomes an ideal spot for the family to bask in the warm sunlight and enjoy quality time together, seamlessly blending into the surrounding landscape.

Garden Pool

Garden Pool

A serene and idyllic setting for a stock tank pool is undoubtedly the garden. The lush surroundings will envelop your outdoor oasis, amplifying the sense of relaxation and tranquility. As you bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip, the soothing atmosphere created by nature’s beauty will melt away any stress or fatigue, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and at peace.

Go All Orange

Go All Orange
Photo Credit: accounts

Instantly elevate the look of your backyard with a vibrant touch – simply paint the exterior of your stock tank! Metal surfaces, being the easiest to work with, can be transformed in no time. With this easy and quick process, you’ll have a summer-ready decor that perfectly complements your outdoor space.

Hidden Plumbing

Hidden Plumbing
Photo Credit: realsistersfixeruppers

When it comes to backyard pools, plumbing is always a necessary consideration. To create a tidy and inviting pool area, it’s essential to keep pipes out of sight. One effective way to achieve this is by incorporating a wooden platform that not only conceals the plumbing but also provides a dedicated space for relaxation, whether that’s sitting or lying down under the sun.

Just Ducky

Just Ducky
Photo Credit: danaplusdavid

To make your stock tank pool more visually appealing when it’s not in use, consider adding a few decorative elements. Inflatable or plastic toys can add a playful touch, while faux water lilies can create a tranquil atmosphere. The key is to strike a balance between fun and relaxation, ensuring that the space feels inviting and enjoyable, even when the pool is empty.

Kids’ Play

Kids’ Play
Photo Credit: pitsandgiggles31

In this instance, the surrounding decking serves as the foundation for a visually appealing built-in ground pool design. Notably, the pergola above provides a shaded area where kids and pets can seek refuge from direct sunlight’s harsh effects.

Lounging and Swimming Together

Lounging and Swimming Together
Photo Credit: accounts

This outdoor space transcends mere functionality, serving as a seamless extension of your home’s living area. The strategically placed towel basket streamlines the transition from poolside lounging to relaxing in a nearby chair, eliminating any unnecessary steps. Meanwhile, the compact side table provides ample space for sipping a refreshing drink and indulging in a great book – the perfect accompaniment to a warm summer day.

Made in the Shade

Made in the Shade

If you’re lacking the perfect outdoor retreat, consider leveraging an understated yet effective solution: repurposing a conventional garden umbrella. This humble alternative offers instant gratification, providing a cozy canopy that can shield you from the scorching sun or unexpected rain showers.

Minimalist Spa

Minimalist Spa
Photo Credit: hannahreesor__

Intimate ambiance is just one of the many benefits that come with installing a privacy screen around your stock tank pool area. Not only will it block out unwanted sun rays, providing a shaded retreat from the outside world, but it also creates an atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation and socializing. Take it to the next level by incorporating hooks into the lath design, allowing you to hang wet towels to dry, keeping your space clean and tidy.

Natural Setting

Natural Setting

Covering the patio with pea gravel creates a visually appealing contrast, while a carefully designed pathway featuring flat stones invites exploration towards the tranquil atmosphere of the stock tank. Meanwhile, the surrounding yard has been intentionally left in its natural state, ensuring that the beauty of nature seamlessly integrates into the family’s daily life.

Neon Dreams

Neon Dreams
Photo Credit: accounts

Transforming a plain stock tank into a captivating backyard water feature requires more than just filling it with water. To bring out its visual appeal, incorporate pool-related items as decorative elements. The vibrant colors of these floats and toys can evoke the carefree spirit of a vacation spot, making your outdoor space feel like a tropical oasis. By incorporating these playful touches, you can create a unique and inviting atmosphere that’s sure to become a favorite gathering spot.

One-Person Pool

One-Person Pool
Photo Credit: accounts

For homeowners with limited outdoor space, creating a soothing water feature has long been a distant dream. However, the oval stock tank’s compact design makes it an ideal solution for even the smallest yards. With its smaller size, this innovative product brings the serenity of a water feature to life, offering a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Padded Edge

Padded Edge
Photo Credit: accounts

To prioritize safety, the pool tank owners have taken a creative approach by covering the metal edge with orange pool noodles that harmoniously match the orange hue of the adjacent side table and umbrella. This thoughtful detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also significantly reduces the risk of accidental falls or injuries around the pool area.

Paradise in the Deep South

Paradise in the Deep South

When it comes to defining distinct spaces within your backyard, such as anchoring zones for relaxation or recreation, consider incorporating varying ground coverings to create visual interest. However, when it comes to areas like a stock tank pool where splashing is inevitable, it’s crucial to choose surfaces that not only allow for easy drainage but also dry quickly to prevent accidents and maintain a safe environment.

Patio Around Pool

Patio Around Pool
Photo Credit: stocktankpool

To achieve a seamless blend between your stock tank pool and existing backyard decor, consider giving it a built-in look. This can be achieved by surrounding its bottom with pavers if the patio area you’re working with is already covered in stone. Alternatively, build a deck around the entire perimeter or half of the pool to create an elevated platform perfect for sunbathing, providing a comfortable space to soak up the sun.

Peeking Cherubs

Peeking Cherubs

In a unique twist on traditional outdoor structures, this stock tank has been elevated onto a raised platform in the backyard. Ditching the conventional approach of building with lumber, the creative minds behind this project opted for a more budget-friendly and nature-aligned solution – constructing it from gravel instead.

Personalized Pool

Personalized Pool

Incorporating a stock tank pool into your backyard landscape can be incredibly refreshing, especially when surrounded by the dappled shade of mature trees. To create a seamless transition between your patio or resting area and the pool, consider installing a walkway that connects the two spaces. For added character, give your pool a personal touch by painting it a bold color or adding a whimsical label to its outer surface.

Additionally, use pool noodles to cover the metal edge of the pool and inject some vibrancy with their colorful hue.

Pink Stripes

Pink Stripes
Photo Credit: daily_disco

To add visual interest to your stock tank, consider transforming its exterior into an eye-catching focal point. A striped pattern achieved through painting can effectively accomplish this. Opt for summer-inspired hues or those that harmonize with your outdoor décor to create a cohesive look.

Pool Party Vibes

Pool Party Vibes
Photo Credit: accounts

A savvy homeowner has transformed their backyard into the ultimate party spot by repurposing a stock tank as a unique outdoor feature. This clever conversion not only provides a refreshing oasis, but also serves as a hub for social gatherings and summer celebrations with friends.

Pop of Color

Pop of Color
Photo Credit: stocktankpool

Bring a splash of personality to your outdoor space by transforming your stock tank into a vibrant focal point. This season, don’t just limit the leaf trend to fabric – get creative and apply it to your pool decor as well! By incorporating an eye-catching painting pattern on your stock tank, you’ll be able to elevate its status from mere utilitarian container to stylish centerpiece for your patio. The best part?

This DIY project is surprisingly easy to execute and can be applied to any surface, making it perfect for adding a summer-friendly touch to your outdoors.

Private Swim Club

Private Swim Club
Photo Credit: accounts

When it comes to enjoying your pool area, having added privacy screens can be a game-changer. Not only will it ensure that you and your friends are the only ones experiencing the serenity, but it also allows for a more intimate atmosphere. To achieve this on a budget, consider repurposing materials like pallets, reclaimed wood, old doors, or shutters. For instance, combining a stock tank pool with a hammock area built into the privacy walls can create a truly unique and inviting space.

Protection and Privacy

Protection and Privacy
Photo Credit: accounts

This inviting outdoor oasis exudes a rustic charm, courtesy of its clever use of repurposed materials. Galvanized buckets serve as sturdy supports for poolside essentials, their metal finish complemented by the weathered appearance of the stock tank. The umbrella’s steadfast presence in a bucket planter adds to the space’s whimsical appeal. Meanwhile, another planter nearby holds the post used for drying towels after a refreshing swim.

The same resourceful containers have also been enlisted to create a cozy privacy screen alongside the pool, further enhancing the area’s natural ambiance.

Pure White

Pure White
Photo Credit: ryanrobertbarnes

White paint is renowned for its ability to instantly revitalize any surface, imbuing it with a crisp, clean, and sanitary appearance. This versatile hue is particularly well-suited for transforming an outdoor space into a serene oasis. For instance, a stock tank pool situated on lush green grass, surrounded by white pea gravel, can be elevated to a tranquil retreat with the judicious application of this color.

Shielded from the Sun

Shielded from the Sun
Photo Credit: jakeohsnap

When it comes to finding the perfect spot for your outdoor gathering, consider seeking out areas with natural shading. A sturdy tree canopy or pergola can provide ample coverage and create a cozy atmosphere. To take your outdoor evening to the next level, why not add some string lights to extend the pool time? This simple addition can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Stock Tank Pool With Cover

Stock Tank Pool With Cover
Photo Credit: cierrecart

When converting stock tanks into swimming pools, protecting the water from contamination is crucial. While commercial pool protectors may not be readily available for repurposed tanks, there’s a creative solution that can get the job done. Consider using reclaimed lumber to craft your own handmade pool protector, which can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach.

Sun Shaded Stock Tank Pool

Sun Shaded Stock Tank Pool
Photo Credit: wyckstandtmelissa

One effective way to add shade to your pool area is by extending a large piece of fabric over it, creating a canopy-like structure. To achieve this, you’ll need four sturdy posts to secure the fabric and prevent it from sagging or flapping in the wind.

Texas Trailblazer

Texas Trailblazer
Photo Credit: letsaddsprinkles

When designing an outdoor space on a sloping backyard, consider creating platforms to elevate specific areas, such as lounges and a stock tank. This elevated design not only provides a visually appealing focal point but also effectively separates different zones, creating distinct areas for relaxation and recreation.

The Real Thing

The Real Thing
Photo Credit: suburbanpop

In harmony with the existing backyard landscape, the author has meticulously designed the area surrounding the stock tank to mirror the same rustic charm. The entire space is characterized by a ranch-style aesthetic, where varying zones are defined by a layer of gravel underfoot and neatly bounded by concrete edging.

Tropical Ohio Hideaway

Tropical Ohio Hideaway
Photo Credit: accounts

A unique approach to creating a stunning stock tank pool involves starting by laying down a layer of gravel over the ground. This serves as the foundation for the pool’s platform, which can be constructed on top. The resulting layered design is not only functional but also visually striking, offering a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that is sure to turn heads.

Vintage Charm

Vintage Charm

Transforming a vintage stock tank into an outdoor pool is a unique way to add a touch of rustic charm to any backyard setting. The repurposed tank seamlessly blends with its surroundings, making it the perfect focal point for a whimsical outdoor space. In this particular example, the addition of string lights hung from a metal hook creates a warm and inviting ambiance, while the set of wrought iron chairs and table in flamingo pink add a pop of color and sophistication.

The hammock provides a cozy spot to relax and take in the surrounding scenery.

Your Private Backyard Retreat

Your Private Backyard Retreat
Photo Credit: accounts

A budget-friendly option for pool shading is the plain mosquito mesh net, which not only prevents leaves and dirt from contaminating the water but also provides some respite from the sun. This solution eliminates the need for a pergola, requiring only four wooden posts to be installed, making it an economical alternative.

Zebra Pattern

Zebra Pattern
Photo Credit: accounts

A modern take on a classic water feature, this striped stock tank has transformed into a stylish focal point in a contemporary backyard. The eye-catching white and black stripes add a touch of sophistication to the outdoor space. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the surrounding concrete tiles provide a safe and clean area for stepping onto the ground, enhancing the overall functionality of the pool area.

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