FOR SMALL SCREEN DEVICES SEE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW THE MAP
See a SLIDESHOW of swimming hole photos in this state.
Do you use DeLorme, MapPoint or other mapping software that accepts user-supplied latitude/longitude files? E-mail us for a file of lat/lon for all the swimming holes in this state (specify which software you use).
Please send us E-MAIL if
you have a swimming hole to add or if you have more information about one that is already
listed. Thank you.
Some great swimming hole LINKS for this State:
Swimming holes in creeks near Blackwell at the southern end of the very spectacular Pine Creek Canyon (aka "The Grand Canyon of PA") in the Tioga State Forest. If you canoe through the canyon (usually there is only enough water in the early spring), you may end your trip near here at Blackwell. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details. THERE ARE MANY RATTLESNAKES IN THE CENTRAL PA AREA, BE CAREFUL! DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS OR FEET ANYWHERE YOU CANNOT SEE FIRST, LIKE UNDER A ROCK OR LOG OR ON A LEDGE. SNAKE ALERT .
AREAS
Tioga State Forest, Pine Creek Canyon
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Toilet facilities at Rattlesnake Rock
ACTIVITIES
Swimming (Tubing, Canoeing on Pine Creek)
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
Camp north of here on the rim of the PA Grand Canyon at Leonard Harrison S.P. or Colton Point S.P. or camp south of here at Little Pine S.P. (Little Pine has nicest facilities and swimming beach on lake).
BATHING SUITS
Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS
From Wellsboro (on RT 6 in north central PA) go south on RT 287, then:
STONY FORK [STON]: Several very scenic swimming holes in Stony Fork Creek. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 , PHOTO 4. This description from a visitor in 2007:" At Little Falls, Stony Fork PA, the depth of the water here in the summer during the hot season is 7-10 feet deep. Great place for swimming, must be careful jumping because there are two large boulders in the water that are larger enough to stand on in the middle and keep you above water. Within Within 30 feet of Little Falls, downstream around the bend is another deep pool 6 to 8 feet deep during the summer season. From where the pull off is for Little Falls, go down the road less than a half a mile and there is a steep trail that goes over the bank. At the end of this trail is the prime jewel of the creek. Big Falls, Stony Fork PA. It is a deep azure colored hole whose depth is much debated." (see what you think it is.) "People jump off the tops of the pine trees around the hole into the water and never touch bottom. No one ever has". (or so it is said...)"
Bathing suits may be optional. To get here from Wellsboro, go south on RT 287 to Knapp then take SR 3008 west (right turn) to town of Stony Fork. In Stony Fork, go south on SR 3007 a short way to Draper and take the fork that goes off to the left (set your odometer here) this is no longer RT 3007, this is now Stony Fork Rd. Continue south on Stony Fork Rd, it becomes dirt, through a little area called Paint Run (see wooden building on left that says "Paint Run" on sign) a total of 4.8 miles where there is a pull-out on the right - park here. Follow the wide, obvious trail from this parking spot upstream to where the falls is. One swimming place is at the foot of this falls. There are several other falls and swimming places along this road. LAT, LON [NAD27]:lat=41.595,lon= -77.352 (source: measured-p) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/07/05. Updated 1/29/08.
RATTLESNAKE ROCK [RATT]: Swimming hole in Pine Creek below large rock. Busy place, boat launch spot, fishing place, access to West Rim Pine Creek Canyon Trail, huge parking, toilets. PHOTO . To get here from Wellsboro, go south on RT 287 (past turn off to Stony Fork above) to Morris then take RT 414 west (right turn) to Blackwell (south end of Pine Creek Canyon). Continue through Blackwell on RT 414 a short distance where you can't miss seeing on the south side of road (left side) a very large parking area and a sign "Rattlesnake Rock". Park and take the foot path (not the boat launch road) across the West Rim Trail and down to Pine Creek. You will be at Rattlesnake Rock and the swimming place is here. May be jumping. Bathing suits customary, very busy place. LAT,LON lat=41.5405,lon= -77.406 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/07/05. Updated 6/09/05.
CEDAR RUN [CEDA]: Nice little swimming hole at foot of a small flat-rock falls where Mine Hole Run empties into Cedar Run. PHOTO. To get here from Blackwell (above), continue west on RT 414. Just before you get to the town of Cedar Run, take a very sharp right (north) turn on SR 4009 (small sign), Mine Hole Rd., (dirt). You will be running along Cedar Run - go about 2.3 miles to a small bridge where Mine Hole Run comes in. The swimming hole can be clearly seen from this bridge. Park before the bridge and take a rather indistinct (but short) trail down to the swimming hole.
If you walk up the road to the right, the one that parallels Mine Hole Run, about 300 feet, then go down to Mine Hole Run, you will be on the edge of a little ravine where the creek rushes down chutes and falls in to a pool. Very pretty and possibly a swimming place IF you can clamber down the steep banks and IF is appears safe to swim there.
LAT,LON lat=41.5558,lon= -77.4583(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/07/05. Updated 6/09/05.
lat=39.9733,lon= -79.2981(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Laurel Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Beautiful, small, crystal-clear swimming hole in scenic setting.
AREAS
Forbes S. F.
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
Nearby at Kooser S. P. and Laurel Hill S. P. (there is none at Laurel Ridge S. P. or Laurel Summit S. P. or Laurel Mountain S. P.)
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburgh, take I-70/76 (PA TPKE) east to the Somerset exit. From the Somerset exit, take RT 31 (W. Main St.) a short way west then RT 281 (New Centerville Rd.) southwest (through New Centerville and New Lexington) about 10.5 miles to Barronvale (the road is now called Scullton Rd.). In Barronvale, take Ream Rd. north 1 mile then jog right on Covered Bridge Rd. then quickly left on Fall Run Rd. (Here is a picture of the covered bridge . Go about 1 mile on Fall Run Rd. then turn right on Blue Hole Rd. (a definite clue) (gravel). Go about 1.3 miles on Blue Hole Rd. and ... guess what... a beautiful blue hole on the right (just before you get to Gary Run on the left, see a post on the right that says "Blue Hole").
lat=41.01614,lon= -80.32642(source: Google Map) (accuracy:general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Neshannock Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
A long-time local swimming hole with a low jumping rock. May also be known as "Sunnys".
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Jumping
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
Unknown
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburg, go north on I-79 to the area of Moraine S.P., then west on RT 422 and, as you come into New Castle, turn north (right) on S. Cascade St. then left on Paper Mill Rd. until it ends. Neshannock Creek is near here and the swimming hole also. No better directions (please tell us if you locate this.)
lat=40.25669,lon= -76.88981(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Susquehanna River
TYPE
River
DESCRIPTION
City Island Park is a Harrisburg City park in the middle of the Susquehanna River reached by both foot bridge and auto bridge. It has some arcade facilities, snack bars, a ball park and is nicely developed and landscaped. It also has a rather uninviting swimming beach on the Susquehanna River. The swimming beach is basically a concrete apron leading down to the river and seems to be very little used anymore. There appear to be no lifeguards. There is no fee. LINK TO WEB SITE.
AREAS
City Island Park
SANCTION
Official
FEE
None
FACILITIES
All facilities
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
717.255.3020
CAMPING
none at site
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
LINK TO DIRECTIONS. You will need to walk a short way to the swimming area which is at the northernmost tip of the island.
lat=39.93664,lon= -77.66441(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Conococheague Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Tubing and swimming place in Conococheague Creek right in the town of Chambersburg. Definitely not a scenic setting - it right behind a chain link fenced parking area and industrial storage area.
Here's a report from a visitor who didn't think it was a very nice place:"I visited the conococheague creek (cono) swimming hole in Chambersburg, PA on 8/13/06 and sadly report that it is not in very good shape. The river has a sulfuric (read polluted) smell to it, and has a milky color. The watering hole appears well-used, but by that I mean well-littered - clothing, cans and bottles litter the shore and are floating in the water. Where the water was shallow, we could see that the river bottom is covered in silt. We saw several fish in the water so it might not be THAT bad, but we decided to wade in the crystal-clear river at the nearby Caledonia State Park."
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None (but it is right in town)
ACTIVITIES
Tubing, Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site; Pine Grove Furnace, east of here, has camping and lake swimming.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Hagerstown, MD go north on I-81 to Chambersburg, PA. The Conococheague Creek goes right through Chambersburg and has many swimming and tubing places. One place: In downtown Chambersburg, going west on RT 30, after you cross RT 11 and go over small bridge, see the Texas Lunch Family Restaurant and a parking lot on your left (south side). (There may also be a sign for the restaurant and another parking lot across the street, to your right, on the north side. You want to walk though the parking lot on the left or south side of the street.) Park here and walk through the restaurant parking lot. There is an old piece of railroad trestle (now a pedestrian bridge) that spans the creek and a path next to it that leads right to a swimming hole (go around behind the chain link fence) with a rope swing.
lat=41.32586,lon= -79.19111(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Clarion River
TYPE
River
DESCRIPTION
Very nice (and popular) water-play area along the beautiful Clarion River in Cook Forest S.P.. Lots of tubing and canoeing (rentals available locally) and playing in the water on a warm summer day. River is mostly pretty shallow but there are some waist-deep places where on could swim a bit. (There is also a
swimming pool in the State Park.)
AREAS
Cook Forest S.P.
SANCTION
Official
FEE
None
FACILITIES
All facilities nearby
ACTIVITIES
Tubing, Canoeing, Swimming
PHONE
(814)744-8407
CAMPING
At site; Cook Forest S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From I-80 east of Clarion at Brookville (Exit 78), take RT 36 north about 15 miles to Cook Forest S.P.. In the State Forest, drive along the Clarion River, park (legally) grab a tube and and jump in!
lat=40.10722, lon= -79.67806 (source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Jacobs Creek
TYPE
Creek/Falls
DESCRIPTION
Small waterfall deep in the woods with fine swimmming hole at bottom. This from one happy user: "Cliffs to jump and dive off of, you can even swim up behind the falls and they spill down onto your shoulders! This place was very secluded for sure! It is a little hike (think long and hot in summer) about 15 minutes I think! I will find this place this summer and try to give you better directions...it is tough...I've been there a dozen times and still get lost everytime!"
This (more recently) from another happy user: "Small waterfall deep in the woods with fine swimming hole at bottom. The waterfall is accessible by a short hike along railroad track or along a rugged dirt road passable only to off road vehicles. When we visited, some people on dirt bikes and jeeps arrived. The site had some problems with graffitti, litter and broken glass. Nonetheless, it was a very nice swimming hole with a deep pool and great cliffs to jump from."
And another report:"It was a pretty good spot. Total mileage was about 50 miles from Pittsburgh, took about an hour to get there. Scottdale is the closest town, pretty tiny rural community. Some organization/club was raising money so they were selling hoagies on the street corner at the main intersection of the town. And they were HUGE hoagies, at least a foot. From there, just a few miles on small roads, then a turn down a gravel road. A
railroad runs essentially along the creek, so once the gravel road becomes a total off-road "road," you can park and climb up on to the tracks for an easy
walk -- or hike along the creek/off-road till you get to falls. Not sure if the jeep would make it. Apparently it's a hot spot for locals to ride quads and dirt bikes, and we saw a bunch of folks out for a ride. Several spots were pretty tough for the quads, and you can see where the path/road has sparked off into little alternate routes because the wear/weather/etc has torn up some pretty deep trenches. It was definitely a climb/scamper as well as a walk, not a simple hike. So that was pretty fun."
"In addition to ourselves, a few groups of high school or college age kids came down and were "cliff jumping" and swimming and goofing off. Some of the quad riders stopped down at the falls for a few minutes to hang out. The water level was really low, and I'd say the falls were sort of a 2- or
3-section tiered fall, first about 5 or 6 feet, then a longer 8 or 10 foot drop. You could jump into the water from any of a number of rocks at different
heights. The highest jump was probably a 25 foot plunge into the water, which was pretty sweet. Lots of trash. BROKEN GLASS everywhere, so barefoot was not a good idea.It was definitely a remarkable amount of glass, so that was the one negative quality. It would be impossible to ruin the location, though, since it was such a prime little swimming hole.Definitely worth revisiting!" Note: Swimming is not permitted under PA State Game Lands regulations.
AREAS
PA State Game Lands 296
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
Unknown
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
At Ohiopyle S.P. southeast of here. Get reservations if it is rafting
time.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown (probably optional, secluded place)
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburg, take I-76 southeast to Exit 8 then RT 119 south then RT 819 southwest into Scottdale. In Scottdale, take SR 3002 west about 1 mile then go left on Creek Rd.. Follow Creek Rd. about 3 miles to
Chaintown. At the bridge in Chaintown, there begins an unmarked gravel road that goes west along Jacobs Creek. (NOTE: there is no TOWN to Chaintown. The bridge is a railroad bridge on a secluded country road. Don't expect any stores or a post office). This road gets very rough and is passable only to off road vehicles. At one point the road fords the stream. You can park and walk up the road or you can follow the railroad tracks. The swimming hole is about 300 yards downstream after
the tracks cross the stream the second time.
lat=40.05022, lon= -75.21458(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Chresheim Creek
TYPE
Creek/Falls
DESCRIPTION
NOTE: As on 7/2011, there has been loads of trash left at this place (in spite of the efforts of a local group that tries to clean it up) and the police are patrolling it regularly. Dont go, dont jump from the rocks and dont leave any trash behind.
This from a local fan: "Devil's Pool (AKA "Devil's Pond") is a swimming hole on a side creek (Cresheim Creek) feeding the Wissahickon Creek in Philadelphia. The creek pours over a giant boulder into a pool about 12 feet deep. There are many places for jumping. This place can get crowded and overused - it's really a shame, because it is gorgeous. We like to go there in the winter, particularly after a snow. In the interests of full disclosure, more than a few people have drowned there over the years -- hence, its name. It's an incredible swimming hole and it's within the limits of a big city. If it were in the country, it would figure prominently on the list."
It is indeed a very perfect little swimminghole. But I would recommend caution about swimming here - there have been many accidents and the creek drains a developed suburban area and may be unhealthy.
AREAS
Fairmount Park (City)
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, jumping
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Chestnut Hill or Mt. Airy, in northwest Philadelphia, take Germantown Ave. then west on Springfield Ave.. Bear right at Valley Green Rd. and descend into Fairmount Park. Cross the bridge over Wissahickon Creek then park. Walk back over the bridge and turn right onto a trail that heads downstream. This trail forks right away -keep right to stay close to the creek. In about .5 mile you will come to a foot bridge high up above a side creek (there is a rock viaduct very high above) and the swimming hole is very visible right below here in the side creek just before it empties into Wissahickon Creek.
lat=40.7021, lon= -75.3203(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Quarry
TYPE
Quarry
DESCRIPTION
From their web site www.dutchsprings.com "Dutch Springs Diving and Recreation Facility features a 47 acre freshwater lake which has been set up specifically for SCUBA diving with underwater platforms, submerged vehicles, aircraft, and other sights to see, and a variety of interesting fish life including rainbow trout, palamino trout, largemouth bass, bluegills, carp, and goldfish. For non divers, Dutch Springs is a place for picnicking, boating, swimming, and snorkeling."
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Official
FEE
Yes, see web site
FACILITIES
Yes
ACTIVITIES
Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming
PHONE
See web site
CAMPING
At site.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Philadelphia Area, go north on Northeast Ext. to Lehigh Valley Exit; RT. 22 East to RT. 191 North. See web site for more directions.
Several swimming holes in the scenic Wills Creek. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Varies-see below
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Primitive camping at Goosebury (no facilities). Otherwise at Shawnee S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Bedford (a PA Tpke exit is here) go west on RT 30 a short distance then south on RT 96 to Hyndman to the red flashing light. Turn right at the light then make the first left onto Church St. (also known as Fairhope Rd.). Then:
GOOSEBERRY RECREATION AREA [GOOS]: Swimming hole in Wills Creek, established place, dirt beach. A long-time user says: "Very nice country setting, great place to get away for a relaxing day at the ole' swimmin' hole. Nice family place." Informal camping at site - right by the road, no facilities, no fee. PHOTO. To get here from Hyndman, follow Fairhope Rd. about 2.5 miles. The recreation area and swimming hole are clearly visible on the left. LAT,LON lat=39.83214,lon= -78.74909(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 4/04. Updated 4/04.
FAIRHOPE [FAIR]: A series of small holes in a clear, cool creek which fall over 6 foot waterfall into 7 foot deep pool. Apparently the result of blasting for a railroad bed, which is very nearby. DANGERS associated with this hole are several:
You have to walk across a railroad track and if you don't cross at the right place (see directions below) you could be trapped if a train comes by.
The creek has a very steep gradient and is dangerous when there is lots of water in it.
LAT,LON lat=39.84326,lon= -78.79979(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.
To get here, continue on Fairhope Rd to the town of Fairhope to the railroad crossing. Drive (carefully) across the tracks and turn immediately left onto a dirt road by the tracks and go a short way to a wide parking area. Park here and walk up stream on the same side of the tracks, then: CROSS THE TRACKS - OBSERVING THIS CAUTION:
You MUST cross the railroad tracks at the right place. Crossing too early puts you on a narrow ledge high above the creek with no room to avoid a coming train which you might not see (because of a sharp curve) or might not hear (because of the waterfall)! Walk about 50 yards up stream PAST the first place where you might be tempted to cross the tracks. Go to the sign for the "Fiber Optic Cable Crossing". Here there is room to cross safely and a path that leads to the streamside. Look both ways and cross here CAREFULLY - DO NOT CROSS THE TRACKS IF YOU ARE NOT SURE YOU CAN DO SO SAFELY! After you cross, go straight into the woods and oyu will see a distinct path down to the creek, upstream of the falls/rapids. The swimming hole is here. Very confident. Verified 4/04. Updated 4/04.
lat=40.1740, lon= -79.2356(source: Measured ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Linn Run
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
A very popular local swimming hole runs over a huge, flat rock in Linn Run State park. The stream has family friendly waterslides and small pools. Be careful, rocks may be slippery.
LINN RUN PARK WEB SITE .
AREAS
Linn Run S. P.
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Rest rooms, picnic tables
ACTIVITIES
Sliding, Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Nearby at Kooser S. P. and Laurel Hill S. P.. (there is none at Laurel Ridge S. P. or Laurel Summit S. P. or Laurel Mountain S. P.)
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburgh, take I-70/76 (PA TPKE) east to the Donegal exit. From the Donegal exit, take RT 31 a very short way east then take RT 711 north (through Donegal and Stahlstown) for 9.3 miles then turn east (right) on Darlington Rd (RT 2043). Go about 1.3 miles to Rector and turn south (right) on Linn Run Rd.. Go about 2.5 miles south on Linn Run Rd. into Linn Run State Park. In the park, look for the (signed) Adams Falls Picnic Area and park there in a large lot by the creek. Walk across the bridge over the creek and turn left onto the (signed) Flat Rock Trail downstream along the creek. Walk this trail less than 10 minutes and you will come to the Flat Rock area - family friendly waterslides and small pools.
lat=39.75608,lon= -78.36467(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Sideling Hill Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Four Quarters Farm is a private "Interfaith Sanctuary" campground, but anyone can join or be a guest of a member. There are several pristine swimming holes here in the creek. Four Quarters Farm also has several festivals each summer that are open to the public and registered campers are welcome to use the swimming holes. See their website FOUR QUARTERS FARM.
AREAS
Four Quarters Farm (private)
SANCTION
Unknown
FEE
Private campground - requires membership or festival registration fee.
FACILITIES
All facilites at camground
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
See website above
CAMPING
Camping at site, private, membership or festival registration required. See web site above.
lat=41.73392,lon= -77.64386(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Pine Creek/Berger Lake
TYPE
Creek/Lake
DESCRIPTION
Informal kids water-play area (not really deep enough to swim) in pertty town park in Galesville. (For travelers: it is right next to library with internet access, too!) [See also nearby "Ole Bull S.P." and "Hammersley Hole" swimming places].
AREAS
Galeton Park/Berger Lake
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None (Toilets nearby at library)
ACTIVITIES
Water-play
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
East of here at Colton Point S.P. (at PA Grand Canyon) and west at Lyman Run S. P..
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
In Galeton on RT 6, turn south at West St on the west side of town then turn east (left) on Park Lane (next to the gas station). The park is here.
lat=39.7714,lon= -76.3164(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Muddy Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Tube and swim at various locations along Muddy Creek. Very pleasant, easy hike along creek. Tubing, swimming and water play along here, depending on water level. No need to walk all the way but the trail is about 3 miles along the entire creek. Water can be swift and rough at certain locations especially after a rain. People camp sometimes, however, not sure if this is allowed.
AREAS
Unknown
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
none
ACTIVITIES
Tubing, Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Nearby at Otter Creek Recreation Area (PA Power & Light), reservations available, call 717-862-3628.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From York, take RT 74 southeast past RT 425 and past RT 372. Just before the town of Castle Fin, turn left onto Paper Mill Rd. In a short distance, this road crosses Muddy Creek. Park just before or after the bridge. The trail is downstream on the right bank. Swimming/tubing places are along here.
lat=40.6488,lon= -77.7587(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
East Branch Standing Stone Creek
TYPE
Lake
DESCRIPTION
Small lake formed by dammed creek in very beautiful setting. Swimming area is in lake - not really a "swimming hole" but so beautiful that it is included here. Very nicely developed campground at site.
AREAS
Greenwood Furnace S. P.
SANCTION
Official
FEE
None
FACILITIES
All facilities at site
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
At site.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From State College, take RT 26 south east though Penns Grove Mills to McAlevys Fort (past the turn off for Whipple Dam S. P. where there is also swimming but no camping) then continue straight on RT 305 to signs for Greenwood Furncae S. P..
lat=40.57772,lon= -76.01333(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Schuylkill River, New Kernsville Dam
TYPE
River/lake
DESCRIPTION
This from a fan:"An excellent swimming and jumping spot located on the Schukill river north of Hamburg Pa . There's a dam down stream that keeps the water level at a safe depth. You may still want to wear shoes in case of hitting bottom. I would estimate the water depth in front of the highest perch to be 12 - 15' . A little shallow for my comfort level considering the 30+ ft height of the highest jumping spot. Talking with one of the locals, he remarked, "I've never hit bottom". In addition to the cliff jumping, there are a couple more swimming spots as you head downstream , toward the dam. Follow the trail down the river and you'll find a couple of rope swings. Look across the river from there and you can see a small pier and some picnic benches. That area is only accessible by water ,but it's still public use (swim or canoe across). I would recommend bathing suits near the cliff as it is a very popular spot. The swimming areas downstream are a little more secluded."
This from another visitor:"There is a lot of broken glass at the rope swings and the rock, so be careful. So people jump off with shoes on because it stings your feet slightly. If you jump and land the wrong way it REALLY hurts. Only jump if you are experienced or just plain crazy." (There is about a lower, about 8 foot, jumping spot too.)
NOTE: I received the following email in 7/2006:"I am writing concerning the New Kernsville Dam site located on the Schuylkill river near the Village of Hamburg, Pennsylvania which is currently listed in your Swimming Holes website. This are has been the site of numerous injuries and fatalities, and at the request of the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and local communities, the Department of Environmental Protection has closed the area to swimming. The New Kernsville Dam is a popular recreation area, and will remain open for fishing, hiking and other outdoor activities. However, the Department has posted No-Swimming signs in the area, and the Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the regulation. Please inform your readers that this area is no longer open to swimming. Thank you for your assistance. Signed: DEP, Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation , Schuylkill River Project" Note: Swimming is not permitted under PA State Game Lands regulations.
AREAS
State Game Lands #106
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Unknown
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, jumping (no longer permitted)
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Unknown
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From I-78 (north of Reading, west of Allentown) at the town of Hamburg, exit onto RT 61 north. Go about 2 miles until just after you cross the the Schuylkill River then turn immediately east (right) onto (I think) Blue Mountain Rd. Park on the shoulder and go down to the river. You could also continue on this road to the dam where there is a small parking lot and follow the trail upstream.
The other way to get there is to turn right off of RT 61 north at the intersection where the Burger King is. Go straight and make a right. Continue on that road which goes behind the Cracker Barrel. Make a left turn immediately following the railroad tracks. Once on Kernsville Dam Road, take it all the way you can go. The road is filled with potholes so dont take your new sports car. You will see the dam on the right but keep going. Eventually you will get to the end of the road and see a few parking spots. Get out and walk in the direction you were driving and there is a pretty obvious trail. About 5 minutes on the trail are the two rope swings. They are a lot of fun, and the current isn't that strong there. If you walk about 15 more minutes you will get to the rock. It's pretty hard to miss.
lat=41.5118, lon= -77.8673(source: measured by another) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Hammersley Fork
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
A serious hike (12 miles total, some steep grades) to a small cascade and a deep hole in the Hammersley Fork creek, deep enough to swim even in mid-summer. [See also nearby "Ole Bull" swimming place.] A frequent visitor here warns that THERE ARE MANY RATTLESNAKES IN THIS IMMEDIATE AREA, BE CAREFUL! DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS OR FEET ANYWHERE YOU CANNOT SEE FIRST, LIKE UNDER A ROCK OR LOG OR ON A LEDGE. SNAKE ALERT .
AREAS
Hammersley Wild Area (State)
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Hiking, Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
Nearby at Ole Bull S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown, probably optional, very remote.
DIRECTIONS
From Williamsport, go west about 25 miles on RT 220 to Lock Haven. Take RT 120 northwest about 30 miles to RT 144, just past Redovo. Take RT 144 north through Tamarack to where RT 144 reaches a "T" intersection and turns right - set your odometer here. Go right on RT 144 and go about 1.75 miles and turn north (left) on a dirt road signed "Hammersley Fork Ave". (This is about 4.75 miles BEFORE you get to Cross Fork on Rt 144.)
This from a hiker who went here:" There are actually two entrances to this road, but only the northerly one is open; the other one crosses a small bridge which is marked "closed." The dirt road proceeds north one-half mile through private land paralleling the Hammersley Fork Run, before entering State Forest land. The road fords the stream but is closed to vehicles; a two-cable foot bridge crosses the stream. You may also cross the stream by foot. Follow the road on the west side of the stream about one mile north. There is a private swinging bridge and another cable bridge to allow you to cross back over the east side of the creek. Follow the stream north until you cross the County Line run. Watch along the foot of the mountain for a very narrow footpath that goes up a grade and runs along the mountainside parallel to Hammersley Fork. This footpath levels off. You will descend once again to Dump
Hollow. If you were not able to find the footpath, you can connect with it here. Continue to follow the path. You will come down to the Elkhorn Hollow. Follow the path once again. Finally, the path will descend to stream level. Follow the path a short distance and you will arrive at the Hammersley Pool.
This hike is more than 12 miles long (round trip), and the terrain is very demanding. The mountainside trail is quite narrow and the slopes are very steep. Also, your warning about rattlesnakes is correct -- we saw one on our hike. A map is essential, because the footpaths are not easy to find and the Hammersley Fork branches off into many tributaries as you head upstream. This hike should only be attempted by a serious hiker with good map skills!"
If you are going to hike this, you should get a trail map and/or guidebook from:
Susquehannock Trail Club
PO Box 643
Coudersport, PA 16915
The map packet is $3.50 plus 6% Sales Tax and $0 shipping for a total of $3.71, The guide book is $10.00 plus 6% Sales Tax and $1.50 shipping for a total of $12.10 )
Swimming/wading places in and near Hickory Run S. P.. For details, see "DIRECTIONS" below. CAUTION: This area is infested with ticks and also has black bears that are NOT afraid of people - wear deet, do a tick-check and be careful!
AREAS
Varies-see below
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
All facilities are available in the State Park
ACTIVITIES
See below
PHONE
(717)443-0400 (State Park)
CAMPING
Hickory Run S.P. has camping.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
On I-80, take exit 274 (south of Wilkes Barre) SET ODOMETER HERE and follow RT 534 south (follow signs toward Hickory Run State Park). Then:
BLACK RUN [BLAR]: Large, deep, beautiful and very secluded swimming place (suits optional?) in Black Run below small waterfall. Rocks to sun on and jump from. In PA State Game Land #40 (Near Hickory Run S.P.). PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. LAT,LON lat=41.0436, lon= -75.743(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Note: Swimming is not permitted under PA State Game Lands regulations.
To get here from RT 534 (BE SURE YOU SET YOUR ODOMETER AT I-80 AND RT 534, AS DESCRIBED ABOVE, THIS PLACE CAN BE HARD TO FIND OTHERWISE!) (Follow directions very carefully from here or you will never find it.) Going south on RT 534 from I-80 you will see a golf course on your right. On your left is State Game Land #40 and you will PASS
a number of large parking areas on the left. When your odometer reads .9 miles from I-80, turn into that large parking area on the LEFT. There are PA State hunting signs in the paring area, including a large, free-standing "Welcome to State Land, Hunt Safely" sign. This is the last big parking area on the left in the Game Land before you get to Lehigh Tannery. The coordinates of the parking area are LAT,LON lat=41.04622, lon= -75.74734 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact)
Now follow these directions carefully: Right next to the sign is a wide grass trail (check for ticks after you return), as wide as a vehicle width, with a large, brown metal gate crossing the trail with a smaller sign "closed to all motorized vehicles" tacked on the gate. Start on this trail and about .25 mile, you will come to an intersection of several grass trails going in all directions. Turn right and walk about 50 feet to another grass trail intersection, turn (sharply) right again. This trail leads down a moderately steep trail and is rocky in some areas.
At the bottom of this trail, it ends in a T intersection with grass trails going to the left and right. Take the right trail and follow it as it narrows and ends at a campfire pit (about .25 miles). The swimming hole is shortly downstream from the creek that is on the left side of the campfire pit. There are two options to get to the hole, either walk on top of the large boulders that are in the creek or to go back to the campfire and go further into the woods, walking in parallel to the creek, ducking low tree branches along the way. Either way, you will end at the deep pool below the large rock. Caution: enter the water and scout the pool first before jumping because rocks at the bottom jut upwards. Very confident. Verified. Updated 8/2009.
HAWK FALLS AREA [HAWK]: A beautiful waterfall with wading/showering. It is a very pretty site, an easy hike and a nice place for a picnic lunch. (But there are sometimes a LOT of folks here!) There is a large but shallow pool for wading and splashing below beautiful, two-drop waterfall on Hawk Run. Another place: along the same trail, before you get to Hawk Falls, is a water play place, quite deep, at the foot of some large rocks across the creek. LAT,LON lat=41.00639, lon= -75.63417 (source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact for Hawk Falls) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.
To get here from RT 534, continue southeast into the State Park, continue on RT 534 past all the signs for swimming, camping, etc. until you pass under a major highway bridge (the PA Tpke) then park at the first parking area on the right.
(Another approach - from the south, on RT 903: Turn left (west) from RT 903 on RT 534. On RT 534, you will see a large sign: "Hickory Run State Park" -- exactly 2.0 miles from the intersection of RT 534 and RT 903 -- in a heavily wooded area with the road winding through it. At the bottom, there is a clearing. The parking area is exactly 2.4 miles east of the intersection of RT 534 and RT 903. The parking area is in this clearing, on the left.)
Either way: Don't take the trail that begins in the parking area but
park and walk west on the road about 100 feet, staying on the left side of the road to a trail that begins at the "Hawk Falls Trail" sign. Caution: trail is moderately challenging so do wear a good pair of walking/trail shoes. After crossing the creek, about 200 feet further down the trail, there is a fork.
You will hear the falls off to your right and if you take the right fork here you can go out on a rock ledge to see the falls BUT DO NOT TRY TO CLIMB DOWN THE ROCKS TO THE BOTTOM. If you keep going a bit more on this trail to the end of the trail, it will follow Mud Run then join Hawk Run and you will end up at the bottom of Hawk Falls- much safer and easier than climbing down the rocks from above. PHOTO 1 OF FALLS , PHOTO 2 OF FALLS.
The other, deeper place is in Mud Run as the trail parallels Mud Run and before you get to the bottom of Hawk Falls. On the trail to the bottom of Hawk Falls, you will be walking alongside of Mud Run where you will see side trails to the creek for water play and a deep place off to your left at the foot of some large rocks across the creek. PHOTO OF MUD RUN.
lat=40.56580,lon= -79.52694(source: web site) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Rattling Run
TYPE
Creek/waterfall
DESCRIPTION
Jackson Falls describes a set of 3 waterfalls. The 2nd falls has the best place to swim, a long-time local swimming hole. The water there is about 5 foot deep and you can jump off the falls into the water. The other 2 falls are also fun to visit.
AREAS
Unknown
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Jumping
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
None at site
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburgh, take I-376 east for 14 miles. Cross the PA TPKE and then take RT 22 east (signs for Murrysville) about 2 miles then RT 286 east toward Golden Mile Hwy for 5.3 mi. Take Golden Mile Hwy about 0.3 mi then Continue onto RT 380 east (Fairview Dr) for 6.0 mi. Take the ramp onto RT 66 north and go 4.3 mi. to Apollo. This is quoted from the web site above:"From the center of Apollo go east on RT 56 to Pennsylvania Avenue and turn right. This becomes Old State Road (SR2046). At 1.4 miles take Jackson Road (SR2050) to the right. This road leads to another road, Brownstown Road (SR2051). Go right on this road past the Kiski Twp. Maintenance and Police center on the right side of the road. Beyond this and just before the top of the hill you will find a place to park on the right side of the road. (There is a no trespassing sign that is generally ignored). There is also a parking lot a little past where the no trespassing sign is. There is a sign there for Rock Furnace Trail and its the parking area for the trail head. You can hike the trail till you reach the bottom of the hill then there will be 2 trails on your right, the upper trail takes you to the 1st and 2nd falls, the lower trail will take you to the 3rd falls."
Camping at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, see below. Also camping nearby at Hickory Run S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Allentown, take I-476 (PA Tpke N.E. Extension) north to Exit 34, Leighton. After exiting the PA turnpike at Leighton, head west to RT 209 that leads to Jim Thorpe (sign says "RT 209, South" whereas you are actually traveling north.) Then:
MAUCH CHUNK LAKE PARK [MAUC]: This from a visitor:"... we go to Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe/Summit Hill, PA our girls love it, there is a roped swimming area you have to pay but if you go to the dam end there's some beautiful spots to go in, I've never had a problem with the rangers. Since we live in the coal region we are very careful about what water we go to because of mine run off, this is a good lake. "
NOTE: We received this email in 4/2007:"To Whom It May Concern: I'm writing in regards to information contained on your web site about the swimming hole located near the cove at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Jim Thorpe, PA. Please be advised that swimming in this area is not allowed. The cove is patrolled by Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission Water Conservation Officers and Carbon County Park Rangers any and all violators are subject to fines and or arrest. Swimming is authorized in designated areas only per Pa Fish & Boat regulations. Thank You, Gerard Healy, Chief Ranger, Carbon County Parks Department"
PARK WEB SITE. LAT,LON lat=40.84325, lon= -75.79886(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here, at the first traffic light as you come into Jim Thorpe on RT 209, make a left (on West Broadway or Race St ?) and go approximately 4 miles from this stoplight. The entrance to Park is on left. MORE DETAILED DIRECTIONS. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 1/18/2007.
GLEN ONOKO [GLEN]: Trestle over Lehigh River makes a favorite swimming hole for
students from Jim Thorpe in the Lehigh Gorge S.P.. There is a swimming place below trestles here in the Lehigh River. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. People have been known to swing from a rope that is sometimes under a trestle or to jump from a trestle. This is both dangerous (underwater objects-a sunken train, for one- are hidden in the water below) and illegal.
I received the following in an email from a state official in 7/2003: "The rope swing under the vehicular bridge is definitely illegal. The Park cuts that rope off as often as we can and has cited people in the past for using it. The train bridge is private property, patrolled by the railroad police. The local patrolman is particularly aggressive towards anyone even walking on that bridge. This is due in part to some serious injuries that have occurred here. Two in particular come to mind. A man caught an iron bar under his armpit and ripped his arm open to the elbow. In another, a teenager struck a submerged railroad tie that was floating down the river. From: David Fry, Ranger for Hickory Run and Lehigh Gorge State Parks."
There is also the famous Glen Onoko Falls near here, but it is not known if there is actually a place to swim at the falls, I did not find one on a visit there 8/00. LAT,LON lat=40.883,lon= -75.762(source: Topozone ) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from RT 209 approching Jim Thorpe from the south, (see above), follow this route to Jim Thorpe to the intersection of RT 209 and RT 903. Turn north east (right) at intersection onto RT 903, which crosses Lehigh River and turns to the left. Follow this route about .25 mile -- until it turns sharply to the right. At this point, there is a stop sign, intended for those traveling straight, instead of turning right. Go straight onto this road. (One more roadmark that you will notice is when you approach the "hard-right" intersection is a brown sign with "Glen Onoko Falls (arrow pointing straight)" on the right, prior to the intersection.) Continue down this road, which turns into a steep road with several moderate curves until you see another road on the left, marked with the "Lehigh Gorge State Park" sign. Turn left and follow this road until it ends at the parking area -- there are two parking areas: one before the railroad trestle and the other immediately after you cross the railroad trestle. Both lots are adjacent to the swimming hole. Access to this hole requires virtually no hiking at all. KEEP OFF THE TRESTLE! Very confident. Verified 8/2000. Updated 1/18/2007.
lat=41.54308,lon= -79.25792(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Tionesta Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Attractive, isolated National Forest campground along Tionesta Creek. The creek is quite shallow here, more for water-play and tubing than swimming, but there appeared to be a deeper area just north of the bridge to the campground where some swimming might be possible.
AREAS
Tionesta Lake, Allegheny N.F.
SANCTION
Unoffical
FEE
Yes
FACILITIES
Toilets,
Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES
Tubing, Swimming
PHONE
(814)755-3512
CAMPING
At site - Kellettville Campground, Allegheny N. F.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Tionesta (in northwest PA, at the southwest tip of the Allegheny National Forest), go north 7 miles on RT 62, then east 11 miles on RT 666 to Kellettville campground.
lat=41.5522, lon= -75.8331 (source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
WATER
South Branch Tunkhannock Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
We received this notice in 7/2009:"Much of this area was purchased by Countryside Conservancy in 2004. Since that date we have opened the property to the public, but we DO NOT PERMIT SWIMMING on Conservancy property. There is therefore no "sanction" to use this site for these activities. Signs on the property clearly state our regulations. This is a beautiful spot and we encourage visitors to use it for hiking, fishing, picnicking and other activities, but in order to protect visitor safety, we cannot permit swimming,. Mary Felley, Executive Director"
Traditional swimming holes in creek within beautiful glen area.
AREAS
Countryside Conservancy
SANCTION
Swimming not permitted
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Hiking
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Lackawanna S.P. is nearby, has
camping.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Scranton, north on RT 9 about 15 mi to RT 6/11. Go northwest on RT
6/11 through Factoryville. Continue on RT 6 about 2 mi past where RT 11 turns off (do not take
RT 11 here) and go left (South) on Lithia Valley Rd.. Go about .4 mi to bridge, cross bridge and park along road. Walk back across bridge to gate with Countryside Conservancy sign. Go around gate and walk trail above the creek and glen for less than 10 minutes to picnic area.
There is also another apparent swimming place in the South Branch Tunkhannock Creek just west of here. The next road west of Lithia Valley Rd. off RT 6 is called Spur Rd. and going south from it turn onto Fox Rd.. Very shortly after you turn there is a small turn out on the left and a large deep spot under a low falls on the right: Photo .
lat=41.4015, lon= -79.08088 (source: measured ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Millstone Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Small swimming area between 2 dams in creek, unique spring-fed
pool, nice beach. Bathrooms and changing rooms.
AREAS
Allegheny N.F.
SANCTION
Official (no lifeguard)
FEE
Day use fee
FACILITIES
Toilets,
Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
(814)927-6628
CAMPING
At site; Loleta Campground, Allegheny N.F.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Marienville, RT 2005 south (Loleta Rd.) about 5 mi to
campground. The swimming place is at the Upper Camping Loop - go past the first camping area then turn left (unsigned) into the second camping area.
lat=41.46775,lon= -76.57925(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Loyalsock Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Many places to swim in the besutiful Loyalsock Creek gorge, generally northeast of Williamsport. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREAS
World's End State Park, Loyalsock State Forest
SANCTION
Varies, see below
FEE
Varies, see below
FACILITIES
Varies, see below
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Jumping, Tubing
PHONE
Varies, see below
CAMPING
At World's End S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Required or customary
DIRECTIONS
From Williamsport take I-180 east a short way to Mountoursville then go north on RT 87. Then:
SLABTOWN [SLAB] Swimming hole and jumping place in Loyalsock Creek. PHOTO , LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO . To get here, continue north on RT 87 to the town of Loyalsock. Just south of the intersection with RT 973, park in a gravel pull-off on the east (right) side of the road. Cross the road (VERY CAREFULLY!), climb over the guard rail, go down a small path, and you will find yourself on a 15-20 foot cliff directly over Loyalsock creek. You can climb down the embankment to swim, or, most people jump off the cliff with a running start. CAUTION - Do not attempt to jump here unless you are sure the water depth is adequate and you have someone experienced with this place to guide you - you must jump OUT to clear the rocks below which may be hidden by the water! LAT,LON lat=41.32395,lon= -76.91104(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008.
NEW SHORE ACRES [NEWS]Swimming hole in Loyalsock Creek. PHOTO . To get here, continue north on RT 87 from Slabtown a short way to the New Shore Acres Restarant - about 5 miles north of Montoursville on the west (left) side. Park away from the building - it is a big lot. Walk down to the creek, wade across the creek, and walk up stream to a very nice small hole about 11 feet deep. LAT,LON lat=41.34037,lon= -76.92095(source: measured) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008.
THE BEND [BEND] Another good swimming hole in Loyalsock Creek, across from the Fairgrounds and popular with locals. To get here, continue north on RT 87 and turn east (right) on RT 154. Go through Forksville. The swimming place is on RT 154 across from the Sullivan County Fairgrounds, halfway between Forksville and World's End S. P.. It is at the far end of the fairgrounds (south end). There are areas of "no parking", please obey these. LAT,LON lat=41.4765,lon= -76.5884(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008 .
WORLDS END S. P. [WORL]Official Loyalsock creek swimming, with beach - a very fine family place. All facilities, including changing rooms and concession stand. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . Very nicely developed camping at site. No fee to swim. Phone: (717)924-3287. LAT,LON lat=41.47043,lon= -76.58365(source: measured) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here continue east on RT 154 a short waY and follow signs to World's End S.P. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008 .
ROADSIDE 154 [ROAD] Another well-used informal swimming place in Loyalsock Creek. PHOTO . After you pass Worlds End on RT 154, look on the east (left) side of the road for a pull out with a sign "Area Closed to Camping". LAT,LON lat=41.45335,lon= -76.52856(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008 .
HAYSTACKS [HAYS]: From a fan:"There is a place known locally as the "Haystacks" on the Loyalsock creek in Sullivan county Pennsylvania. It requires a walk of well over a mile each way, but is well worth the hike. It is a sandstone rock formation that has been worn down by the creek to resemble a series of haystacks; hence the name. During regular water flow, it becomes a fantastic series of whirlpool-like holes that offer background scenery
that is unmatched. The tub like pockets offer natural hot and cold running aerated jets in which you can sit and enjoy the surrounding mountain beauty. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 , PHOTO 4 . (Although to be honest, the hot doesn't actually work....)" LAT,LON lat=41.45717, lon= -76.48104(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/2008 .
To get here: Continue east on RT 154 then turn north (left) at Laporte onto RT 220. From Laporte, after about 2 miles on RT 220, you will see a sign for the Loyalsock Trail's trailhead - turn left onto Meade Road to parking area. (The trail represents the terminus of the Loyalsock Trail (LT). See trail information below.). In the parking area, read the sign and you will see that the shortest way is to follow the "Haystacks Trail" but you could also follow the Loyalsock Trail (LT). The Haystacks Trail will take you over a trail for about 15 minutes then down to a former RR grade which you will follow about 20 minutes than go right down the "access Rd" for another 15 minutes to the creek. You will soon reach the Haystacks, a boulder reef over which the Loyalsock swirls and tumbles, there are 2 plunge pools and a whirlpool. This is a Class IV-V rapid during periods of high water. A great place to swim and scramble on the boulders. Also offers one of the most scenic primitive camping areas in the Mid-Atlantic.
LOYALSOCK TRAIL [LOYT] All of the above swimming places are accessed by road. The Loyalsock Trail will take the hiker to many more remote places. Get the trail map and hike segments or the whole trail and discover your own swimming holes. WIKIPEDIA INFO . This from a contributor:" The Loyalsock (LT) trail is so natural, rugged and scenic that even photographs cannot do it justice. It simply must be experienced to appreciate it. So, if you are in good shape, like rugged, challenging hikes, waterfalls, roaring mountain streams, dense remote woods and wildlife at its finest, get your hiking boots.........."
"The Loyalsock wilderness trail runs 59.3 miles through Worlds End State Park on PA154, Lycoming and Sullivan counties in north central PA. between LaPorte on US220 and Loyalsock on PA87. It features dozens of waterfalls ranging up to 75 feet high, many high vistas overlooking the rugged Loyalsock valley, spectacular stream courses, gorges and canyons as it winds through the historic coal mining, timber regions and rail beds of yesteryear. Breathtaking 400 foot high cliffs, hundreds of different rock formations, ledges, crevasses and caves. Hiking effort ranges from easy, flat woods walking to quarter mile sections that climb a rugged rock strewn 1200 feet in elevation. Hardwood forest, thickets of mountain laurel, rhodedendron, blueberries and azalea compliment the countless species of wildf lowers such as violets, trillium, gaywings and hepatica that spring up from the forest floor. A hiker may encounter tiny chicadees, woodpeckers and songbirds, wild turkeys, porcupines, skunks, racoons, deer - all in their natural habitat."
"Camping is available in the park and at designated wilderness sites, subject to regulation. The LT follows the cliffs above and drops down through Worlds End State Park where short trail sections may be explored and two spectacular vistas are accessible by auto. (Details and map at park.) The LT has sufficient road access to permit 4 to 10 mile long day hike segments."
"Detailed LT trail maps and guides are available for $3.50 from the Alpine Club at P.O. Box 501 Williamsport, PA 17703. Their members do a fantastic job of trail marking and maintenance. Many thanks to them. Also: Worlds End State Park P.O. Box 62 Forksville, PA 18616-0062 Phone (717) 924-3287 (Kudos for the beautiful park area) or the PA Department of Parks at P.O. Box 8551 Harrisburg, PA, 17105-8551."
lat=39.76452,lon= -77.77577(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Conococheague Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Ad-hoc place to swim in Conococheague Creek under a historic and beautiful covered bridge. There is a park sign here by the bridge so there must be a park but it is not clear what is park land and what is private land. Please respect private property when you go here.
AREAS
There is a park sign here by the bridge so there must be a park but it is not clear what is park land and what is private land.
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Tubing
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site; Pine Grove Furnace, east of here, has camping and lake swimming.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Hagerstown, MD go north on I-81 to Greencastle, PA. Go west through town on RT 16. In about 1 mile from town, go left on Grant Shook Road. Follow it to Weaver Road then go right to a sign for Martin's Mill Bridge over the Conococheague. Place to swim and tube.
lat=41.30889,lon= -74.79800(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Varies - see below
TYPE
Varies - see below
DESCRIPTION
Swimming places in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. For detailes, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
SANCTION
Varies - see below
FEE
Varies - see below
FACILITIES
Varies - see below
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
On New Jersey side there are several State Parks with
camping. None nearby on PA side.
BATHING SUITS
Varies - see below
DIRECTIONS
From I-84, Exit 46 near Milford PA take RT 6 east toward Milford to the intersection of RT 6 and 7th street near downtown Milford. Then:
MILFORD BEACH [MILB] Very nicely-developed, small official swimming area on the Delaware River in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area with lifeguards, changing rooms, etc.. Good for the whole family! NRA entrance fee. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . Bathing suits required. LAT,LON lat=41.30889,lon= -74.79800(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from the intersection of RT 6 and 7th street (above), continue on RT 6 straight through the intersection of RT 209 and RT 6 in downtown Milford (at the traffic light). Now you are on RT 209. Continue on RT 209 a short distance then turn east (left) on RT 2013 (Milford Beach Rd.) to the signs for the Milford Beach area. Very confident. Verified 8/05. Updated 8/05.
HACKERS FALLS [HACK] Beautiful, cascade-type falls with huge, deep swimming hole at the bottom. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . This is in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and swimming does not appear to be prohibited here. About 1 mile (easy) hike each way. Gradual entrance slope, good for the whole family (but it does get deep!) No entrance fee. Bathing suits customary. LAT,LON lat=41.30053,lon= -74.83861(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from RT 6 and 7th street as you enter Milford (set odometer here), go right (southwest) on 7th street then right again on a road that may be signed: RT 2001 or Milford Rd. or Mill St. or Water Street. You will be on RT 2001 and soon driving along the western boundary of the NRA. At about 2 miles, turn at the Cliff Park Inn sign on the left (east) side and follow this road until you see the symbol for the hiking trails then follow the dirt road to the parking area (Cliff Park Trailhead) where there is a map and a vault toilet (LAT,LON of parking place: lat=41.3039,lon= -74.8329(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.) (Depending which direction you are coming from you may actually have to pass thru the country club parking lot before you get here.) Hike on the trail (begin on red blazed trail then take yellow blazed trail) here about 1 miles and you will see the Hackers Falls and the large pool below. Very confident. Verified 8/05. Updated 7/2010.
lat=40.24514,lon= -76.47747(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Lake Conewago
TYPE
Lake
DESCRIPTION
Commercially-operated lake with sandy beach, grass beach, picnic area, rentals, other facilities. A swing for jumping into the lake, a 15 foot high dive, a 3 foot low dive, many docks just to hang out, changing rooms and bathrooms, great fireworks on July 4th, food stand, canoe rentals-2 bucks an hour. Link to web site.
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Official
FEE
Yes, see web site above.
FACILITIES
All facilities
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Diving
PHONE
717-964-3130
CAMPING
None at site.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Harrisburg, take I-76 (PA Tpke)east to Exit 20 (Lancaster/Lebanon). Turn left onto RT 72 (north). Proceed 2 miles to Mt. Gretna/RT 117 exit. Descend ramp to stop sign and turn left onto RT 117 (north). Proceed 2.4 miles to Mt. Gretna Country Deli ("Lake" sign on side of building), follow Lake signs, turn right onto Timber Road, bear left onto Lakeview Drive, bear 1st left into parking lot at Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach. Parking is free.
lat=39.8625, lon= -79.4942(source:Delorme) (accuracy:general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Meadow Run
TYPE
Meadow Run
DESCRIPTION
Sliding/swimming place in Ohiopyle in the vicinity of the Youghiogheny River, which is a major (and crowded) whitewater river. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS
Ohiopyle S.P.
SANCTION
Semi-official (signs but no lifeguards)
FEE
No
FACILITIES
Picnic and toilet nearby
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Sliding
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
At Ohiopyle S.P. nearby. Get reservations if it is rafting season.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From I-68 in Western MD, go northwest on RT 40 then northeast on RT 381 toward Ohiopyle. Then:
MEADOW RUN SLIDE [MEAD] Natural waterslides that you can slide down boulders into a small pool below. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 , PHOTO 4. To get here: Just as you enter Ohiopyle from the south on RT 381, see the large gravel parking area for the slides on the right just before you cross major concrete bridge where Meadow Run enters the Yough River. There is a sign on the left and the bottom entry on the sign is "Natural Waterslides". LAT,LON lat=39.8625,lon= -79.4942(source: measured-p) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/2008. Updated 5/08.
lat=41.5394,lon= -77.7147(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Kettle Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Very lovely creek swimming area is formed by weir - see photos. [See also nearby "Galeton" and "Hammersley Hole" swimming places]. A frequent visitor here warns that THERE ARE MANY RATTLESNAKES IN THE CENTRAL PA AREA, BE CAREFUL! DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS OR FEET ANYWHERE YOU CANNOT SEE FIRST, LIKE UNDER A ROCK OR LOG OR ON A LEDGE.
AREAS
Ole Bull State Park
SANCTION
Official
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Toilets, Picnic Tables, Changing room
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
(814)435-5000
CAMPING
At site; Ole Bull S.P.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From RT 6 at Galeton, go south on RT 144 to Ole Bull S. P..
Nice swimming/tubing places in river, several deep holes.
Pine Creek is also a beautiful canoeing creek in the early spring. Upstream of here, one
can canoe through the area called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. A frequent visitor here warns that THERE ARE MANY RATTLESNAKES IN THE CENTRAL PA AREA, BE CAREFUL! DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS OR FEET ANYWHERE YOU CANNOT SEE FIRST, LIKE UNDER A ROCK OR LOG OR ON A LEDGE.
AREAS
Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania (nearby)
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Tubing,
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Little Pine S. P. is nearby.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Williamsport, go west on Rt 220 about 20 mi to Jersey
Shore area. Then go north on Rt 44 (set odometer) toward Waterville. Then:
ROADSIDE 44 [ROAS] Deep place in Pine Creek at roadside pull out. To get here: about 7 miles from where you get on RT 44 going north (or, about 3.3 miles going south on RT 44 from Waterville) see on the west (left) side of RT 44 a break in the guardrail and a pull out. Park here and walk down to Pine Creek where the swimming holes is. LAT,LON lat=41.279132,lon= -77.316853(source: Google Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified. Updated 8/08.
PINE CREEK [PINE] Deep place in Pine Creek near bridge. PHOTO. To get here: continue north on RT 44 through Waterville. In a short distance past Waterville, just BEFORE you cross the bridge over Pine Creek, park alongside the road (safely). Walk down to the creek near the LEFT side of the bridge (stay near the
bridge, there is private property nearby). The swimming places are right here near the far side of the Creek. These are several deep holes and large rocks underwater, be careful. LAT,LON lat=41.311310,lon= -77.376640(source: Google Map) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified. Updated 8/08.
lat=41.653888, lon= -77.0325(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Tioga River
TYPE
River
DESCRIPTION
Large but shallow swimming area in creek near road - not too deep. Popular with local kids.
AREAS
None
SANCTION
unofficial
FEE
none
FACILITIES
none
ACTIVITIES
Water play, Swimming? (shallow)
PHONE
none
CAMPING
None at site, camp nearby at Hills Creek S. P.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Mansfield(north of Williamsport, near NY state line), take RT 15 south to Blossburg then take Main St. (becomes Gulick St.) southeast. Bear right on Ogdensburg Rd. and go about 2.8 miles to an unsigned dirt road on the left side of the road. Turn into this dirt road and park and walk along the road, though a small stream, a total of less than 10 minutes to a large clearing on the left with signs of past campfires. Thhe swimming hole is here.
lat=40.99161,lon=-77.18936(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Rapid Run, Halfway Lake
TYPE
Spring-fed lake at dam
DESCRIPTION
Established swimming, beach, lifeguards, falls, cold water.
AREAS
McCall Dam S. P. (and R. B. Winter S. P.)
SANCTION
Official
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Toilets,
Picnic Tables, Changing room
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
570-966-1455 (R. B. Winter S. P.)
CAMPING
At site, reservations, call 570-966-1455.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From I-80 Exit 185 (southwest of Williamsport, near Rosecrans)take RT 477 south about 7 miles to Livonia, then take RT 192 east (left turn) about 5 miles to signs for R.B. Winter S. P.. Swim in lake at park. Alternately, from Lewisburg, go west on RT 192 about 20 miles to park.
lat=41.32314,lon= -76.28161(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Kitchen Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Many waterfalls on 2 creeks. Adams Falls, right on RT 118, has a very nice pool at the bottom with gradual entry. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. Also lake swimming at the State Park.
I received the following e mail from a state official in 7/2003:" Please be advised that on your website under Pennsylvania you list an area called Ricketts Glen State Park. This is a Natural Area, is remote, and swimming is strictly prohibited by law. We are asking for your help by removing this listing. We do not want to see people get fined or arrested, and more importantly injured or killed swimming in these waterfalls. We have serious injuries occurring in this area, and are trying to protect the people and the environment. Signed: Terence Daltroff, Park Manager, Ricketts Glen State Park."
AREAS
Ricketts Glen State Park
SANCTION
Swimming in falls not permitted
FEE
None
FACILITIES
Toilets,
Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES
PHONE
(717)477-5675
CAMPING
At site; Rickett's Glen S.P.
BATHING SUITS
DIRECTIONS
From Wilkes-Barre, take RT 309 north then RT 118 west to the State Park.
lat=41.40875,lon= -75.59928(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Roaring Brook
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Very beautiful swimming spot, but rather remote. It has been used as a swimming hole for years and lays between two reservoirs. The upper reservoir is still active but the lower one is not. This swimming hole is big with many pools up and down the creek. Be careful of rocks and the moss. The rock moss is very slippery, so be sure you have a solid footing when walking around. Because the area has rugged access, don't drive down here unless you have a reliable 4wd vehicle. One final note: Even though it's not posted, the area is private property. So if you bring food and drinks with you, please take your garbage with you when you leave. If not, the owner may block access and we would be losing a very nice area.
AREAS
SANCTION
Unofficial - swimming not permitted at the dam at the lower reservoir
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site
BATHING SUITS
Optional
DIRECTIONS
From Scranton, take RT 307 south for about 5 miles. Turn left on Blue Shutters Rd. Follow for about 1 mile and turn left on Elmhurst Blvd, just before the I-380 underpass. Follow Elmhurst Blvd for about 1.5 miles and you will see a small guardrail on each side of the road. About 0.1 mile past that, is a dirt road on the right. You can park there. It is a 15-20 minute walk down the hill (past a lot of debris) to the creek. (The walk back uphill is about 30 minutes.) After you cross the creek (it is shallow here), turn left and you have to walk more until you find the swimming spots .watch for the 1st dirt road on the right. Follow the dirt road all the way down until you reach the creek. One word of caution, do not swim by the dam at the lower reservoir, this area is OFF LIMITS and you will be arrested if caught there.
Swimming holes in beautiful Rock Run creek in Tidaghton State Forest. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details. THERE ARE MANY RATTLESNAKES IN THE CENTRAL PA AREA, BE CAREFUL! DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS OR FEET ANYWHERE YOU CANNOT SEE FIRST, LIKE UNDER A ROCK OR LOG OR ON A LEDGE.
AREAS
Tidaghton State Forest
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming (jumping, sliding?)
PHONE
None
CAMPING
Camp east here at World's End S. P. (also swimming holes in that area, see "Loyalsock Creek Area" elsewhere.)
BATHING SUITS
May be optional
DIRECTIONS
From Williamsport, take RT 15 north about 12 miles then RT 14 northeast to Ralston. In Ralston, turn east (right) on Green St. or Thompson St. and at the end of the street go left then right across the bridge over Lycoming Creek (set odometer here) and into the State Forest on Rock Run Rd. (dirt), then:
LOVERS ROCK [LOVE]: Swimming hole beneath large, flat rock outcrop. Depending on the intimacy level of any lovers present, bathing suits may be optional. To get here from the bridge at Ralston, go .8 miles up Rock Run Rd.(keep right at fork) and park in large pullout area on right. It is a short but steep climb down to Lovers Rock and the swimming hole. LAT,LON lat=41.5053,lon= -76.9373 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/07/05. Updated 6/09/05.
ROCK RUN FALLS [ROCF]: Swimming hole at bottom of chute/cascade through rock crevice. beneath large, flat rock outcrop. LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO . Bathing suits may be optional. To get here from Lovers Rock (above), continue for 1 more mile on Rock Run Rd. and park at pullout on left or right. Walk a short way down the trail to the creek then walk downstream a short distance to the swimming hole. LAT,LON lat=41.51465,lon= -76.9196 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/07/05. Updated 7/2010.
lat=41.95998,lon= -77.27988(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Thornbottom Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Local swimming hole in creek very near PA/NY state line. There are seveal other swimming holes very near this one. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO
AREAS
none
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Mansfield (north of Williamsport, near NY state line) take RT 15 north to Lawrence then RT 49 west. Go past the Cowanesque Dam, where you will see a recreation area with official lake swimming at a beach. About 3-4 more miles on RT 49 west of the recreation area, where the river feeds into the lake, is the Neslon Falls area and a bridge over the river. Just before you cross the bridge here, (just east of the bridge), you turn south (left) onto Thornbottom Rd.. Take this road to the first right turn onto Pleasant Valley Rd., turn right and go about .3 mile up this road to where there is a weathered barn on the left and on the right is Short Hole, almost visible from the road.
lat=40.178,lon= -75.731(source: measured by another) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
French Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Creek with some small swimming places. This from a visitor:"French Creek, mostly slow moving, very large boulders in most of the creek. This area is part of French Creek that has very large boulders in the stream and a VAST wooded area with tons of trails. There are some parts of the stream that have pooled water and are good for taking a dip. As you walk through the area, you'll notice a good amount of graffiti. I've been told that a lot of "stoner" activities used to go on in this area in the 60s and 70s, I'm not sure how active that kind of thing is now. On the opposite side of the town from the stream, is a small quarry. The quarry is off-limits, but is quite scenic from the parking lot nearby. St. Peter's Village information "
AREAS
none
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Water play, swimming, hiking
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site. Camp nearby at French Creek S. P.
BATHING SUITS
Customary
DIRECTIONS
From Pottstown take RT 100 south. At the intersection with RT 23, take a right. Drive about 3 miles until St. Peter's Road on your right. Take the right. Continue past the fork ahead, staying left on St. Peter's Road. After 1/2 miles from RT 23, you will be in St. Peter's Village. You can park anywhere, but the best place is after you have passed the majority of the town, there will be a large gravel/dirt parking lot on the left. From here, French Creek is on your left!
Swimming places in and near the southern part of the Delaware Water Gap N.R.A. on the PA side. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. (See also in New Jersey "DELAWARE WATER GAP NJ" in NJ across the river.)
AREAS
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
SANCTION
Varies- see below
FEE
Varies- see below
FACILITIES
Varies- see below
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
On New Jersey side there are several State Parks with camping.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From I-80 in Stroudsburg take exit 309. At the end of the exit ramp, make a left onto RT 447. Follow this road for about 3 miles until it comes to a T intersection. Make a right onto RT 209. Then:
RED ROCK [REDR] Local swimming hole in Brodhead Creek. Has a rocky beach, bridge, 20 feet deep in certain places. Swimming, jumping, rope swing. PHOTO . This note from a visitor in 2007:"The Red Rock site is still there and is a nice spot, sometimes trashed with beer cans. There is only one jump from the lower platform of the bridge that I was willing to do, everything else seemed either too high a jump, or too shallow water. The rope swing is truly insane, with the bottom of the rope at least 25 feet above the water. It looks like the water would be deep enough for it, but it would take someone braver than I to try it." Camp at Tobyhanna S. P. northwest of here. LAT,LON lat=41.05396, lon= -75.22098 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact), LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 7/2010.
We received this report in 7/2010:"The area on the train tracks and bridge is now posted as no trespassing by the railroad company. It seems that it is still OK to jump off the cliffs or use the rope swing, but it doesn't seem legal to jump from the bridge anymore (or walk along the tracks). That said, there were people there jumping from the bridge that
frequent the area and they informed our group that the new restriction is rarely enforced. It seems the signs may have been posted only to reduce the liability of the railroad company."
To get here from RT 209 in Stroudsburg (see directions above to here) After you make the right turn onto RT 209, bear left at the first light, this will be RT 447 again. Take RT 447 about 6 miles to the town of Analomink, near the Post Office. Make a left at the Analomink Post Office on Cherry Lane Rd. and follow the road along the tracks, you will see the bridge up ahead. The swimming hole is under the bridge. There are lots of "no parking" signs along here, but if you cross the bridge then on the left there appears to be a section where you could park. If not, you will need to park some distance away and walk to the bridge. The only apparent way to get down under the bridge is to go down on the left side of the bridge as you first approached it.
SMITHFIELD BEACH [SMIT]
Established Delaware River swimming beach in the Delaware Water Gap N.R.A.. Has elegant changing/bathrooms (see photo), boat ramp, picnic tables, lifeguards. It is clearly marked on the Delaware Water Gap NRA map. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT,LON lat=41.02948,lon= -75.05232(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from Stroudsburg, take I-80 east to Exit 309 where you take RT 209 north. Turn right at Buttermilk Falls Rd/Shawnee Rd. and turn left at River Rd. (Rt 2028) and follow signs to Smithfield Beach.
Very confident. Verified 8/08. Updated 8/12/2008.
lat=40.2703, lon= -76.7153(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Swatara Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Family place to swim in creek at small park with picnic tables. Gradual sloping bank on south side, good for kids.
AREAS
None
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
No
FACILITIES
Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Harrisburg, take RT 322 east to RT 39 (Hershey Park Dr.) in Hershey. Take RT 39 west (see signs)and stay on it where it turns left at Hershey Park. Shortly, (after you cross Swatara Creek) you will come to East Canal Rd.- go west (left) onto this road. The next major road you will come to is alternately called Hanover Rd. or Grandview Rd.- go left here. Just before you cross Swatara Creek again is a little park where the swimming hole is in the creek.
lat=40.80258,lon= -79.93989(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Thorn Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Local swimming hole in creek near road and railroad. No further details.
AREAS
none
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Pittsburgh, take RT 8 north toward Butler. About 5 miles BEFORE you get to Butler, (after you pass Airport Rd. on the west (left) side of RT 8) turn left on Renfrew Rd. going toward Renfrew. This road runs along side of Thorn Creek and there is said to be a swimming hole in the creek along here, before you get to Renfrew (we think). It may be accessible from the road or from the railroad on the other side of the road, uncertain. No better directions.
lat=41.48506,lon= -79.44964(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Tionesta Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Swimming places in the "Outflow" from an Army Corps of Engineers dam which forms Tionesta Lake - it is officially called the "Tionesta Recreation Area". There is an Army Engineers campground here as well as a city park which has a swimming (grass) beach and lifeguard. (NOTE: In a visit here in 7/04, locals said that the swimming beach was not in operation.) It is possible to tube or to play in the water by the campground as well, but it is quite shallow by the campground and not really a swimming place.
AREAS
Tionesta Lake (Army Corps of Engineers)
SANCTION
Official at city park, unoffical elsewhere
FEE
Unknown
FACILITIES
Toilets, Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Tubing
PHONE
(814)755-3512
CAMPING
At site; Tionesta Recreation Area, Army Corps of
Engineers
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From Tionesta (in northwest PA, at the southwest tip of the Allegheny National Forest), go south .5 miles on RT 36 to Tionesta Recreation Area.
Informal and formal swimming places near Trough Creek S. P.. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS
Trough Creek S. P.
SANCTION
Varies- see below
FEE
No
FACILITIES
Picnic and toilet at both places
ACTIVITIES
Swimming
PHONE
Unknown
CAMPING
At Trough Creek S. P.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Altoona in mid-PA, take I-99 S/US-220 South for 9.8 mi then take
exit 23 for PA-164 east through Roaring Spring and Martinsburg. Turn north (left) on RT 26 and go about 6 miles then turn east (right) at Entriken on RT 994 (Old Plank Rd) and cross the bridge over Raystown Lake, then:
TATMAN RUN [TATM] This is a formal established Army Corps of Engineers beach (no lifeguards) on Raystown Lake and might be a nice alternative to the informal place at Trough Creek (see below). Has picnic areas and changing rooms and a nice sandy beach. No fee. To get here: After you cross the bridge on RT 994 (above) look on your left (north side of RT 994) for a sign for "Tatman Creek Rec. Area." and a road going down to the lake you just crossed. The beach is at the end of this short road. LAT,LON lat=40.31110,lon= -78.179094 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 7/2008. Updated 7/08.
TROUGH CREEK S. P. [TROU] A couple of nice informal water play/swimming places in Trough Creek S, P.. The first one is just below the Swinging Bridge (you will see signs to the swinging bridge and a parking area for it) and has a little rock cliff for low, easy jumping (check for water level and hidden rocks first). PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO . LAT,LON lat=40.32233,lon= -78.12945 (source: measured) (accuracy: approx) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Another shallow but nice water play area is at picnic area #5, further down the road from the swinging bridge and past the ice cave. LAT,LON lat=40.33105,lon= -78.12572 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.
To get here, continue east on RT 994 and follow the signs for Trough Creek S, P.. Follow the road along the creek until you conme to the swinging bridge and then to picnic area #5. The camping is on this road also. Very confident. Verified 7/2008. Updated 7/08.
lat=39.73886,lon= -75.77181(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
White Clay Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Right on the PA/DE state line, the White Clay Creek State Preserve offers a beautiful, quiet spot for swimming, tubing and canoeing along White Clay Creek. The foot path is part of Mason Dixon Trail that connects both parks (PA and DE). PARK WEB SITE .
AREAS
White Clay Creek State Preserve
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, tubing
PHONE
302-368-6900 (Park Office)
CAMPING
None at site
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From I-95 in Delaware, take Exit 1 (RT 896) north to Newark, DE. From Newark, continue north on RT 896, New London Rd.. Past the main entrance to White Clay State Park take a right on Hopkins Rd, left on Thompson Station Rd and then left on Chambers Rock Road. Cross the bridge and there is a small state park parking lot on the right. Walk north along the creek for approximately 1/2 mile. You'll cross the state line into the PA portion of the park. Pass an abandoned railroad bridge foundation works. Along the path for the next 1/2 mile there are a number of swimming spots. Look for the big flat rocks that will give you easy access to the lazy wide river. Suitable for kids but be careful the rocks can be slippery. You may want to bring a length of rope and tie it to a tree to help you get in and out of the water.
lat=40.37906,lon= -76.26664(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Quarry
TYPE
Quarry
DESCRIPTION
Commercially-operated quarry with very clear, very deep water. Swimming beach, platforms, also popular scuba diving place. All facilities. JOIN THEM EVERY NEW YEARS DAY FOR THEIR ANNUAL POLAR BEAR SWIM (all proceeds to charity.)! Link to web site.
AREAS
Willow Springs Park
SANCTION
Official
FEE
Yes, see web site above.
FACILITIES
All facilities
ACTIVITIES
Swimming, Scuba Diving
PHONE
(717)866-5801
CAMPING
At site for divers only.
BATHING SUITS
Required
DIRECTIONS
From Harrisburg, take RT 422 east (or, take RT 501 south from I-78 then RT 422 east.) In 3 miles past Meyerstown, look for Willow Springs sign on the right. Turn right on to Millardsville Road (sign says to Richland). Park is .5 miles on the left.
lat=40.16589,lon= -76.9536(source: map) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE
PA
WATER
Yellow Breeches Creek
TYPE
Creek
DESCRIPTION
Yellow Breeches Creek has lotsof tubing and some small swimming places. This from a visitor:"Pretty cold but it's great for tubing. There are some swimming holes too. The creek starts in Boiling Springs and converges with the Susquehanna River at New Cumberland. You can tube and swim at many spots along there. There is even some parking here and there. Please refer to this website (follow outdoor > boating link)for additional information including parking. Keep in mind, though, there are a lot of places along the Breeches that you can go that aren't necessarily listed."
AREAS
none
SANCTION
Unofficial
FEE
None
FACILITIES
None
ACTIVITIES
Tubing, swimming
PHONE
None
CAMPING
None at site.
BATHING SUITS
Unknown
DIRECTIONS
From RT 15 (south of the PA Turnpike) take the Lisburn Road exit. Go east on W Lisburn Rd (RT 114). Go south (right) onto McCormick Rd. This road will parallel the creek. Tubing and swimming places are along here.
