Open Question: Can I go swimming with my period WITHOUT using a tampon?

This week my camp is having a pool party, and I really wanna go swimming. I'm scared of using a tampon, and I've always used pads/pantiliners. My swimwear is a dark blue color, and I'm wondering if I'll be okay just wearing that in the water.I've been reading a bunch of mixed answers saying that you shouldn't, or it's fine not to use a tampon, but can anyone give me one definite answer?