The phrase "watering hole" refers to a place where animals go to drink water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a social gathering place, like a bar or a café, where people meet and socialize. Full definition
They inhabit dense forests, so researchers are usually able to observe the animals only by climbing tall trees or watching them when they gather at water holes. (sciencemag.org)
People developed extensive systems of fields and dug watering holes for livestock. (sciencemag.org)