I Built a Hidden Dugout by the River. Start to Finish

Last spring, I transformed my backyard nightmare into paradise. The soggy, unusable corner by the creek seemed hopeless until I discovered the perfect solution—a custom dugout pool. I’ll walk you through every step: from initial excavation and drainage planning to liner installation and landscaping. Learn my shortcuts, avoid my mistakes, and see how I created a stunning waterfront retreat on a budget. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or seasoned pro, this complete guide covers permits, materials, equipment rentals, and creative design ideas. Your dream oasis is closer than you think—dive into this step-by-step journey!