WEST VIRGINIA SWIMMING HOLES

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ANTHONY CREEK AREA
[5 PLACES]
(ANTH)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS LEWISBURG, ANTHONY, ALVON
STATE WV
WATER Anthony Creek/Greenbrier River
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION There are several nice swimming holes along a short length of Anthony Creek near Lewisburg. Also in the Greenbrier River in same area. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Picnic tables, rest rooms and camping at Blue Bend and Blue Meadows Recreation Areas (Monongahela N. F.).
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING At Blue Bend and Blue Meadows, very nice National Forest campgrounds.
BATHING SUITS See below
DIRECTIONS From Lewisburg, go north on RT 219 about 7 miles to Frankford. Turn right on RT 21, Anthony Station Road (there are River Access signs here). Then:

FLAT ROCK [FLAT]: A short hike on the Greenbrier hike/bike trail to large swimming hole in the Greenbrier River. The broad, shallow Greenbrier waters are warm early in the summer. Bathing suits may be optional. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=37.9017, lon=-80.3244(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . To get here: Follow RT 21, Anthony Station Rd., for about 3 miles until just before you come to a bridge across the Greenbrier River. Turn left (north) into a parking area for the Greenbrier Trail before the bridge. Park here (lock your car) and walk about 8-10 minutes north (upstream) along the Greenbrier on this well-developed trail. See on your left a large hillside full of Rhododendron bushes and on your right a very distinct trail that leads down to the river. Walk to the river and jump in off of a flat rock on the bank.

Verified 7/08. Updated 7/5/2008.

JERICHO [JERI]: A short hike to popular local swimming hole in Anthony Creek. May also be known as "Blue Hole". Bathing suits unknown. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=37.8916, lon=-80.3189(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . To get here: From the "town" of Anthony (above), cross the bridge over the Greenbrier and park on the right just across the bridge. There used to be an older bridge in Anthony that was washed away by a flood several years ago, little section of road to the old bridge provides a nice place to park. PLEASE be considerate of other people that may want to park here and also DO NOT PARK in the road! Lock your car.

At the end of the little parking lot is a dirt road blocked off by large boulders. Hike on this road about .75 miles or so. If you come to where this trail fords the creek you have gone to far. The dirt road actually leads right to Jericho if you follow it. Very confident. Verified 10/03. Updated 10/18/2003.

HIPPY HOLE [HIPP]: Another (more remote)local swimming hole in Anthony Creek. May also be known as "Gunpowder Bend". Bathing suits may be optional here. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=37.9017, lon=-80.3173(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP . To get here, from Jericho hole: Continue on Trail 615, very shortly you will ford the creek and in a short distance more you will come to a trail sign and the junction with Trail 618. Go to the left onto Trail 618 (do not turn right onto the trail up the mountain). When the trail comes back to Anthonys Creek and makes a sharp bend to the left you will be at Hippy Hole. There is a picnic table there and a stone fireplace. All told, Hippy Hole is about .25 miles past Jericho.

BLUE BEND [BLUE]: Beautiful, well developed swimming place in Anthony Creek. Camping, picnicking, toilets. Cool blue water, rock "beach", life rings, safe except watch for sharp drop offs. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 . Bathing suits required. LAT, LON lat=37.9219, lon=-80.2644(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here from the town of Anthony (where the bridge over the Greenbrier River is): Continue east on RT 21 to the Blue Bend Recreation Area. (Another way to get here is from Exit 181 on I-64, take RT 92 north to Alvon then take RT 21 west to Blue Bend Recreation Area.) Very confident. Verified. Updated 10/18/2003.  


ANTHONY CREEK [ANTC]: Several swimming holes in Anthony Creek visible from RT 21 as you drive west from Blue Bend (set odometer).

The first is at about .4 miles west of Blue Bend - pull off on left - may be called "Splash Dam" or "Blue Hole". PHOTO . Bathing suits unknown. LAT, LON lat=37.91723, lon=-80.27572(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

The second is at about .9 miles west of Blue Bend on RT 21 - pull off on left - appears to be a bit shallower than the first. Very confident. Verified 6/2005. Updated 6/22/2005.
CONFIDENCE See above
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 7/2/2008



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


ANVIL ROCK
(ANVI)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS LEWISBURG, RONCEVERTE, ALDERSON
LAT, LON lat=37.7289, lon=-80.5967(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Greenbrier River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming hole by large (80 ft long, 20 ft high) rock. Sometimes there is a ladder to climb it, otherwise watch how the locals do it. Can also swim from river bank below. DON'T GO BEARFOOT- LOTS OF GLASS.
AREAS None
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping (check depth first)
PHONE None
CAMPING Nearby at Greenbrier State Forest (a short distance east of Lewisburg).
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Lewisburg, go south on RT 219 then west on RT 63 at Ronceverte. Look for the sign for the Greenbrier River Campground. Go 1.5 miles past this campground to a wide gravel pull out on the south (left) side of the road. After you get out of the car and walk to the edge, you will see Anvil Rock below. Walk down a steep bank to the river.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 10/2000
DATE UPDATED 12/13/2000



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


AUDRA S. P.
(AUDR)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
PHOTO 3
TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS CLARKSBURG, ELKINS, PHILLIPI, BUCKHANNON
LAT, LON lat=39.0419, lon=-80.0672(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Middle Fork River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Organized swimming place in river in state park; very unusual. Concrete pad for beach, lifeguards.
AREAS Audra State Park
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes
FACILITIES Toilet, Changing Room, Picnic Tables
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE (304)457-1162
CAMPING Camping is provided at Audra State Park.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Elkins, go 6 mi west on RT 92 to Norton, continue north on RT 92 about 6 mi to Belington, west on RT 11 about 10 mi to Audra State Park.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BEMIS AREA
(BEMI)
[2 PLACES]

SEE PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS ELKINS, GLADY, BEMIS
STATE WV
WATER Shavers Fork
TYPE Falls/river
DESCRIPTION Two swimming places on Shavers Fork river. See directions below for details.
AREAS Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping east of here at Laurel Fork Rec. Area or north of here at Stuart Rec. Area, both are N. F. campgrounds.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Elkins, go east on RT 33 to Alpena then south (right turn) on RT 27 to Glady then west (right turn) on RT 22 toward Bemis.

HIGH FALLS [HIGH]: A beautiful, deep pool at the foot of a broad falls about 10 feet tall. Swimming and jumping. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. LAT, LON lat=38.772, lon=-79.778 (source: Topozone ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. There is no road to High Falls but there are two ways to get here:

You can go by train - In Bemis, there are railroad tracks (and a small railroad station) on RT 22 for the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad - used for excursion trains several times a day that go south from Elkins through Bemis and end at High Falls PHOTO OF BEMIS STATION. (about 5 miles from Bemis to High Falls - takes about 20 minutes on the train) with about a 45 minute layover at High Falls, then returns.PHOTO OF HIGH FALLS STATION. It costs about $10 for a round trip from Bemis to High Falls. Call the railroad at 1-877-686-7245 for the schedule and tell them you want to get the train at Bemis as they only stop at Bemis if there is someone waiting. There are lots of tourists, food and bathrooms on the train. There are really disgusting pit toilets at the falls. There is a also another train (a diesel trolley called the Salamander) that comes north from Cheat River Bridge to High Falls as well. There can be several hundred tourists milling about the falls area when both trains arrive at the same time - not very conducive to swimming in peace. If you want to swim and stay a while, check the schedule and see if you can go on one train and return later on another - they dont collect tickets coming back from High Falls so this should be no problem.

You can hike - About half way to Bemis from Glady, the West Fork Rail Trail begins on the south (left) side of the road (take this trail toward the south west, not south east). Hike up this trail about 5-6 miles, along Shavers Fork and the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley railroad, to High Falls. You can apparently camp at High Falls. There are several picnic tables beside the train tracks and sometimes people backpack up here and camp by the tracks. Apparently this area is in the Monongahela N. F. and camping in permitted - but you wont get much peace here when several hundred tourists arrive by train! There are no other facilitates besides the picnic tables and the disgusting pit toilets.

MULE HOLLOW [MULE]: A more traditional and private local swimming hole - a deep pool in Shaver's Fork river with big, flat rocks to sun on. There is an overhang rock you can swim below. PHOTO. To get to Mule Hollow, go to the train tracks in Bemis and walk south along the railroad tracks (there is no trail to here) for about 1 mile (25-30 minutes). Watch out for the excursion trains several times a day - be careful. (The excursion trains DO NOT stop at Mule Hollow - you have to walk.) Follow the tracks, which will begin to follow the river closely after a while, until you reach an almost hidden, steep little trail on the left with a small tree stump at the top (the trail is pretty steep so you might want to bring a rope) and you're there. LAT, LON lat=38.7996, lon=-79.7512(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 8/8/2007



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BERKELEY SPRINGS S. P.
(BERK)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS MARTINSBURG, BERKELEY SPRINGS
LAT, LON lat=39.62639, lon=-78.22817(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Hot Springs
TYPE Hot Springs
DESCRIPTION This is not really a swimming hole, but, other than the "Jefferson Pools" in Virginia, it is the closest thing to a hot springs in this part of the country. It is in the cute mountain town of Berkeley Springs. Naturally warm mineral water is further heated up and you can soak in an indoor tub or a Roman pool at 104 degrees. It is a State Park and it costs about $10 per person (1999). Massages, steam and various other treatments are available for extra cost in another building. Get reservations; call first. BERKELEY SPRINGS S. P. WEB SITE.
AREAS Berkeley Springs S.P.
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes, about $10 per person
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Bathing
PHONE (304)258-2711 (call ahead for reservations)
CAMPING You can camp east of here in Sleepy Creek Hunting and Fishing Area on a pretty lake but it is up a long, rough road and has not much by way of facilities (not even picnic tables last time we were up there). The road begins at Jones Springs on County Road 7, east of the Sleepy Creek area.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Martinsburg, go west on RT 9 to Berkeley Springs. The State Park is right in town.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 12/13/2000



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


BIG BEND
(BIGB)

PHOTO TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS PETERSBURG, FRANKLIN
LAT, LON lat=38.8916, lon=-79.2433(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER South Branch Potomac River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Sandy beach at popular river swimming place, near small rapid to play in. Also great place to go tubing, river makes big loop, brings tubers TO starting place in about 1 hour of tubing.
AREAS Monongahela N.F., Smoke Hole Canyon
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilet, Picnic tables (nearby)
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Tubing
PHONE No
CAMPING Camping right at site in Big Bend N.F. campground. Very nice, developed campground.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From the intersection of I-81 and I-66 near Winchester, VA, go W on RT 55 to Petersburg, WV. Follow RT 220 to the SW out of Petersburg for about 18 miles. Cross the bridge at Upper Tract, and turn right onto RT 2 which parallels the river for about 9 miles until it dead ends at Big Bend Campground. Be sure to keep right at the intersection where you see the general store, after which the road turns to gravel. Park in parking area near entrance to campground. Walk north out of parking lot on path along river a short distance to sandy beach on river.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999


SWIMMING HOLES EAST


BIG SANDY CREEK AREA
[3 PLACES]
(BIGS)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MORGANTOWN, MASONTOWN
STATE WV
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Creeks /Waterfall
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes frequented by students from the University of West Virginia in Morgantown. CAUTION: DO NOT SWIM IN THESE PLACES AT HIGH FLOWS. YOU MUST CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF OR WE WILL LOOSE THIS PLACE FOR SURE! For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS (nearby is) Cooper's Rock State Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES none
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camp near the bridge - no water or faculties. YOU MUST CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF OR WE WILL LOOSE THIS PLACE FOR SURE!
BATHING SUITS Optional
DIRECTIONS From Morgantown, take I-68 to Exit 4 then take RT 7 east about 12-15 miles to Masontown. In Masontown, turn left at the Main Pharmacy on RT 23. Go 2 or 3 miles to a big, triangle-shaped intersection and follow the road left towards Bull Run (there's a sign). Follow this road (CR 21) 4 or 5 miles and you'll come to a spot where 3 dirt roads meet with a small concrete bridge on your left. Go straight past this bridge and the road will turn sharply right. This is CR 14-4. Follow this dirt road a few miles down to the Jenkinsburg bridge over the Cheat River. Then:

BLUE HOLE - BIG SANDY [BLUB]: Also known as "GREEN HOLE" or "BIG SANDY". This place is very popular, especially among University of West Virginia students, but is troubled by trash, drinking, rowdiness and fatalities. Please do not drink and swim and DO NOT JUMP OFF THE BRIDGE OVER THE CHEAT RIVER, there are rocks in the river below - this has been the cause of most fatalities. Take a trash bag in with you and bring out trash please. YOU MUST CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF OR WE WILL LOOSE THIS PLACE FOR SURE! , The area has begun to be patrolled by state police which limits the underage drinking and excessive drinking a good deal. This place or places nearby may be bathing suit optional also.

This is a really huge swimming hole with lots of rocky areas all around. PHOTO, PHOTO, PHOTO. Some primitive camping here also. CAUTION: You must have a high clearance vehicle (a pick up truck at a minimum) and 4 wheel drive is preferable to go down this road. The last mile or so is a very UNIMPROVED narrow road with rocks and potholes and no room to pass an oncoming vehicle or to turn around. It has a steep, 80 foot drop-off on one side. Road is at a steep downhill pitch with loose rock surface. Be very careful. To get here, from Morgantown, go south on I-68 to Exit 4 then take RT 7 east about 12-15 miles to Masontown. In Masontown, turn left at the pharmacy onto RT 23. Go about 1 mile to a big, triangle-shaped intersection and follow the road left towards Bull Run (there's a sign). Follow this road (CR 21) 4 or 5 miles and you'll come to a spot where 3 roads meet with a small concrete bridge on your left. Go straight past this bridge and the road will turn sharply right. This is CR 14-4. Follow this dirt road a few miles down to the Jenkinsburg bridge over the Cheat River.

Cross the bridge over the Cheat River. Immediately on the other side is a very large parking area on the left for river access (boating)(you can swim here near the bridge the Cheat River PHOTO - CHEAT RIVER AT BRIDGE but this is not Big Sandy). Go past this area a short way to the first sharp right turn then see a smaller parking area on the left side with rocks with Day-Glo orange paint on them. Park here and follow a trail a short distance then, at a large rock with "danger" painted on it in Day-Glo orange, take a short, steep downhill trail on the left that goes down to the river. The Blue Hole is here in Big Sandy Creek. LAT, LON: lat=39.5967, lon=-79.7447 (source: Topozone-p ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 9/09. Updated 8/10.

DEVILS DEN [DEVI]: Swimming hole in the main Cheat River. PHOTO . To get here: Before you get to the Cheat River bridge, a hundred yards or so from the west side of the bridge, is a switchback that follows the Cheat River north. You may need to park and walk down this road, it is very rough. Near the end of the switchback (about .25 mile) is another site called Devils Den. CAUTION DO NOT SWIM IN HIGH FLOWS. This is situated directly on the Cheat River where you can play in the rapids or cross to the cliffs where you can jump off. Again, water level determines safety, but the Cheat doesn't rise and fall as quickly as Big Sandy. LAT, LON lat=39.59732, lon=-79.75040 (source: measured) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very certain. Verified. Updated 5/2011.

WONDER FALL [WOND]: Beautiful, clear stream in forested valley. Waterfall with huge swimming place below as well as numerous swimming places off trail downstream from waterfall. May require some climbing down to get in. CAUTION DO NOT SWIM IN HIGH FLOWS. LAT, LON lat=39.6222, lon=-79.7047 (source: Topozone-p ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here, two ways:

First way: High clearance vehicle and 4 wheel drive required. From the bridge over the Cheat River (above), continue east on RT 14 (past Blue Hole parking spot) about 3.5 miles to the intersection with RT 15. Here, stay on RT 14 by going to the left. In about 1.5 miles you cross Big Sandy Creek. Cross the bridge and park on the other side.

Second way: High clearance vehicle and 4 wheel drive required. From Morgantown, go east on I-68 about 12 mi to Exit 15. Set odometer. Go east on County Rd 73 that parallels the Interstate on the north side. Go past one road that goes south under I-68. Continue east on RT 73 then, at about 3.2 mi. from exit 15, in the village of Laurel Run, turn right on the gravel road (still on Rt 73, Laurel Run- Pisgah Rd.) that goes under the interstate. Follow this about .5 mi. then go left at County Rd 14-1 (George Walls Rd.). Follow this road about 3 miles to the steel bridge over the Big Sandy. Dont cross the bridge, park on near side.

Whichever way you come, at the bridge over Sandy Creek, (there are some trashy old cabins) there is a well used path along the right side (north side) of the creek going downstream. Walk about 35-40 minutes (about 1 mile) down this trail to the waterfall (may require some climbing down to get in). Swim there or continue downstream to other (bathing suit-optional) swimming places. Pretty certain. Partially verified. Updated 5/2011.
CONFIDENCE Varies-see above
VERIFIED Varies-see above
DATE UPDATED 8/10



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CAMP CREEK AREA
(CAMP)
[3 PLACES]

SEE PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS BLUEFIELD, PRINCETON, CAMP CREEK
STATE WV
WATER Varies-see below
TYPE Falls/creek
DESCRIPTION Several swimming places at the foot of waterfalls in the Camp Creek State Forest and nearby off I-77. See directions below for details.
AREAS Camp Creek S.F. and vicinity
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES All facilities
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at site in Blue Jay Campground in Camp Creek State Forest
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Bluefield (in very southern WV near VA border) take I-77 north, then:

BRUSH CREEK FALLS [BRUS]: Wide waterfall with about 20 foot drop into a swimming hole - some jump off a rock ledge into the water (always check for hidden rocks before you jump). PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO . To get here from I-77 north, take Exit 14 then CR 7 southeast about 2.5 miles (through Mercer Springs) to RT 20. Turn north (left) on RT 20 and go about 4.75 miles (through Athens) to Speedway (not as far as Pipestem). Here, take Brush Creek Falls Rd. (also known as Speedway Road or CR 3) west (left turn). After about 2.5 miles on this road, the road forks. Take the left fork (Brush Creek Road) for the last half mile or so to a parking area next to a picnic pavilion (you are now almost back to I-77 but there is no interchange near here). Follow the footpath behind the pavilion about .25 miles to the falls.

This report from a visitor in 2014:"Went to Bush Creek Falls this past weekend. The trail was as described, a little walk. We would suggest packing light. Just the essentials. The upper falls were easy to access and beautiful. The trail to the lower falls (we can see where others have worn down the path) has been replaced with an overlook fence/deck. However, if you continue to walk past the fence and a make shift barrier (made from wood/twigs etc) there is a fairly easy path to take down with the proper footwear. The water was nice and frigid, good on a very hot day. The water levels were high enough that people were jumping from the falls, I wouldn't suggest it unless there is a significant amount of water cascading over the falls. No one touched bottom on the day that we were there. There was a lot of visitors. So if people are looking for a quiet place to commune with nature, I would suggest wearing some non skid water footwear AND BUG SPRAY." LAT, LON lat=37.46506, lon=-81.06278(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified by another, 7/2014. Updated 7/2014.

CAMPBELL FALLS [CAMB]: Big swimming hole at foot of falls in Camp Creek State Forest. PHOTO. To get here continue north on I-77 to Exit 20 then take RT 19 south and follow signs to Camp Creek State Park/Forest. Once in the park, follow signs for Blue Jay camping area and for Campbell Falls. Park and walk a short way up a pretty trail to the foot of the falls. LAT, LON lat=37.5162, lon=-81.1319 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/2005. Updated 2/8/2006.

MASH FORK FALLS [MARS]: Small swimming hole at foot of falls in Camp Creek State Forest. PHOTO. To get here once in the park, follow signs for Marsh Fork camping area then take gravel road (unsigned) to the falls. May be too shallow to swim at low flow. LAT, LON lat=37.50056, lon=-81.14254 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 6/2005. Updated 2/8/2006.

CONFIDENCE Varies - see above
VERIFIED Varies - see above
DATE UPDATED 2/8/2006



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CEDAR CREEK S. P.
(CEDA)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BUCKHANNON, BURNSVILLE, GLENVILLE
LAT, LON lat=38.88192, lon=-80.85797(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER CEDAR CREEK S. P.
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Hike along creek, swimming places in creek. No better information. CEDAR CREEK S. P. WEB SITE.
AREAS Cedar Creek S. P.
SANCTION Unknown
FEE Unknown
FACILITIES Toilet, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE (304)462-7158
CAMPING Camping right at site in State Park campground..
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From I-79 at Burnsville, go west on RT 5 to Glenville. From Glenville, take RT33/119 3 miles south to signs to Cedar Run S. P.. From the park entrance go 2.4 miles (follow signs to campground) to the bathhouse (there is a pool) and park there. The trail along the creek begins near campsite T3. Follow trail and look for swimming places in creek. Total length of trail is 3.2 miles. No better information available.
CONFIDENCE Uncertain
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


CRANBERRY RIVER AREA
(CRAN)
[3 PLACES]

SEE PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BECKLEY, SUMMERSVILLE, RICHWOOD
STATE WV
WATER Cranberry River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several great swimming places on the Cranberry River in the Monongahela N.F. See directions below for details.
AREAS Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilets at Big Rock N.F. Campground
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at Big Rock N.F. Campground
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Beckley, go north on RT 19 to Summersville (see also "Summersville Cliffs" below) then turn east (right) on RT 39 and go to Richwood in the Monongahela N.F. area. At Richwood on RT 39, look closely and follow signs that say "To Cranberry River" (you will turn north on Cranberry Rd. (RT 76), but there is no road sign). Set your odometer here. Then:

SPLINTER [SPLI]: Deep place in the Cranberry River where there used to be a cable crossing. Probably a swimming hole for visitors to nearby "Camp Splinter". To get here, go 2.2 miles up Cranberry Rd. from RT 39 and turn west (left) onto RT 7/2 (paved, no sign, go by the mileage) and go about .8 miles then turn north (right) onto RT 7/5 (also called FS 85, gravel, no sign, see satellite dish, go by the mileage), and follow this road 3.5 miles to the end at a parking area by a small creek across from Camp Splinter buildings. Park. From here, you are by the Cranberry River and can go upstream or downstream to swimming holes.

To go downstream, follow a path that leads from the left side of this parking area and go downstream about 5-8 minutes to a swimming hole in the river. DOWNSTREAM PHOTO . No downstream LAT, LON.

To go upstream, walk to the right across the small creek and then across the front lawn of Camp Splinter and onto a path into the rhododendron forest. Walk about .35 miles to where there is an old foundation in the river and steel poles and here is a swimming hole also. UPSTREAM PHOTO . . Upstream: LAT, LON lat=38.288, lon=-80.5503 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

WOODBINE [WOOD]: Very nice little semi-official national forest swimming hole. Good family place, rock to jump from, clear, cool water, rocks to sunbathe on, toilets. To get here, go 4 miles up Cranberry Rd. from RT 39 and turn west (left) at the signs for "Woodbine Recreation Area". Park and take the path to the left of the toilets to the river. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.2917, lon=-80.5364 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

 


BIG ROCK [BIGR]: Pretty nice swimming hole right across the road from the Big Rock N.F. campground. May be some trash, seems more used than Woodbine. To get here from Woodbine, go a very short distance up Cranberry Rd. to the campground on the left. There is a large parking area by the river on the right and the swimming hole is here. You do not have to be camping to access the swimming hole. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.29516, lon=-80.52301 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.  


CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 6/2005
DATE UPDATED 6/22/2005



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


DECKERS CREEK TRAIL
(DECK)

YOU TUBE TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MORGANTOWN, MASONTOWN, GREER
LAT, LON (at Masontown) lat=39.55607, lon=-79.80186(source: map) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Deckers Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION 19 mile long rail-to-trail from Morgantown to Reedsville along Deckers creek and parallel to Scenic Byway Route 7. Swimming places in creek and waterfalls, some near the town of Greer. See DIRECTIONS below for information. DECKERS CREEK TRAIL WEB SITE , DECKERS CREEK TRAIL INFO , MAP OF DECKERS CREEK TRAIL
AREAS Deckers Creek Trail
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Hiking, biking, Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING No camping at site.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Morgantown, drive east on RT 7 (turning often to stay on RT 7: Brockway Ave then Powell Ave then Earl L. Core Rd.). When you are going east on Earl L. Core Rd. (RT 7), you will be paralleling Deckers Creek and the Deckers Creek trail. The swimming places are on this trail near Greer. The map (link above) shows parking and trail access at Mellons Chapel and Masontown. If you get on the trail at Mellons Chapel, you head east on the trail about 3 miles to Greer, if you get on at Masontown, you head west on the trail about 3 miles to Greer. The swimming places are on this trail near Greer. (You may be able to access the trail right at Greer, not sure of this.) No more definite directions.
CONFIDENCE Pretty confident
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 10/2014



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


ELK RIVER AREA
[3 PLACES]
(ELKA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS WEBSTER COUNTY, VALLEY HEAD, WEBSTER SPRINGS, BERGOO
STATE WV
WATER Elk River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION The Elk River corridor is an extremely beautiful, rural area with numerous swimming places, fishing holes, etc. It is paralleled by County Road 26, providing many access points along the length. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Bordered by Monongahela N.F. in places
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES You can camp, eat and use bathrooms at Elk River Lodge (private) near eastern end of CR 26.
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Lots of campgrounds south of here in the Monongahela N.F. in Cranberry Recreation Area. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere in the N.F.. Private camping at Elk River Lodge near eastern end of CR 26
BATHING SUITS Customary (most places are very exposed)
DIRECTIONS From Elkins, take RT 219/250/55 south through Beverly and Dailey, at Huttonsville, keep right to stay on RT 219/55 where RT 250 goes off to the left. Near the town of Valley Head, turn right on RT 15 (set odometer) and go 3.9 miles on RT 15, just past a large quarry on the left, turn left on Valley Fork Rd, (CR 26). (As you go down this road (sometimes gravel) you will pass the Elk River Lodge where there is camping, food and other services - none other nearby here.) Then:

ELK HOLE 1 [ELKO]: When you have gone 5.5 miles down CR 26 from RT 15, you will glimpse on the left a broad, deep pool with large flat rocks. Swimming and jumping. PHOTO. There are small places here you can park and hike down to the river. LAT, LON lat=38.5334, lon=-80.16975(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.


WHITAKER FALLS [WHIT]: At 6.7 miles from RT 15, you come to Whitaker Falls, very visible from road. This is a first rate, world class swimming hole! Here you can jump from the rocks beside the falls, swim up to a ledge and crawl totally behind the falls and slide (very safely) on a chute just upstream from the falls. Huge expanse of rocks to play and sunbathe on. Different depths for different folks - lots of fun for all ages. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2. LAT, LON lat=38.5253, lon=-80.18417(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.
 


BERGOO HOLE [BERG]: At about 9.5 miles from RT 15, you come to an old railroad bridge over the Elk River on the left. Under this bridge there is a large, deep swimming hole with gradual access. There are places to park also. (You can also come here from the west end of CR 26 at RT 15 - in this case, it is about 12.1 miles from RT 15 along CR 26 to the east) PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 . LAT, LON lat=38.515, lon=-80.232(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 7/04
DATE UPDATED 7/21/2004


This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


GLADE CREEK AREA
[5 PLACES]
(GLAD)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS CHARLESTON, BECKLEY, PRINCE
STATE WV
WATER Glade Creek
TYPE Waterfalls/pools
DESCRIPTION Beautiful creek and gorge that runs into New River, has a 6+ mile hiking trail alongside. Has many swimming holes along this length. The Glade Creek gorge and trail can be accessed from either end. The upstream end is near I-64 - I call this the "UPPER" section. The lower end is accessed from the New River gorge - I call this the "LOWER" section. You can start at the upper end and hike a total of about 7.5 miles to the lower end along a well developed trail. If you have 2 cars you might leave one at the lower end and drive to the upper end to begin the hike. There is a small (5 sites, no reservations) developed (but no drinking water) campground right at the lower end of the Glade Creek Trail, in the New River Gorge, right by the New River.
AREAS New River Gorge National River
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Picnic tables, vault toilets and 5 campsites at the lower end (no water)
ACTIVITIES Swimming, hiking
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at lower end of trail, where Glade Creek meets New River.
BATHING SUITS Optional
DIRECTIONS All directions are from Beckley:

LOWER SECTION [GLAL]:The lower end of Glade Creek is accessed from the New River Gorge. (NOTE: 6/2005: The road to Glade Creek was damaged by flooding and is closed and will be for some time while they try to fix it. You can still get as far as Grandview Bar, where there is also now a campground. Free - toilets but no water. You can swim at Grandview Bar PHOTO in an eddy in the New River BUT be very careful of currents here.) There is a small developed campground (no water) near the lower end, in the New River Gorge, right by the New River. (Probably fills up fast during rafting season - only 5 sites, no reservations!) There are several swimming holes along this lower section, for example: PHOTO. LAT, LON lat=37.8239, lon=-81.0086(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: In Beckely, take RT 41 northeast about 10 miles, winding down into the New River Gorge to a bridge across New River to Prince. Just BEFORE you cross this bridge, turn right onto (unpaved but good shape) Glade Creek Access Road (sign is here). Follow road about 6 miles (past Grandview Bar is now closed, see note above) to parking area for Glade Creek (road ends here, campground is here also). Hike on trail up Glade Creek gorge. There are a number of swimming holes along here. (If you hike 6 miles up, you will get to the UPPER section (see below)). Very confident. Verified. Updated 6/22/2005.

UPPER SECTION [GLAU]:The upper end of Glade Creek is accessed from I-64, east of Beckley. There are numerous swimming holes along this section, for example: PHOTO 1. PHOTO 2. PHOTO 3. PHOTO 4. LAT, LON lat=37.76139, lon=-81.05435(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From Beckely, take I-64 east to Exit 129 (Grandview Rd., CR 9). SET YOUR ODOMETER HERE. Go south on CR 9. You will go though 2 sharp left curves, then, just before a sharp right curve, see on your left a dirt road. This is only about .7 miles down CR 9 from I-64. This dirt road is CR 22 BUT IT IS NOT MARKED IN ANY WAY - just a sign saying who cleans up litter off the road. If you get to the next road on the left, a paved road marked CR 22/1, you have just passed CR 22.

Drive as far down this sometimes badly rutted road as your vehicle will endure - it is a total of 1.5 miles to Glade Creek. You may have to park and walk down the road. In 1.5 miles, you will come to Glade Creek and the main Glade Creek trail that goes up and down the creek. There are swimming holes both upstream and down stream from here. To go upstream, ford the creek and take the trail (a road) upstream on the far side. There is a swimming hole on this side at .5 miles up and more further up, some are as far as 2.0 miles upstream, I think. To walk downstream, don't ford the creek, walk downstream to a bridge then cross and continue downstream. There are numerous swimming holes downstream, one right under the I-64 bridge and more further on down. If you continue down this trail 6 miles, you will come to the lower end of Glade Creek and the New River. Very confident. Verified 6/04. Updated 6/28/2004.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 6/22/2005



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


GRAFTON AREA
[2 PLACES]
(GRAF)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MORGANTOWN, GRAFTON, PHILIPPI, ARDEN
STATE WV
WATER Varies- See below
TYPE Creek/River
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes in and near the Tygart River. For details see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS unknown
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Nearby at Tygart Lake State Park.
BATHING SUITS unknown
DIRECTIONS All directions are from Grafton, which is east of I-79 south of Morgantown.

FORTNEYS MILL [FORT]: Popular swimming hole in Three Fork Creek (tributary to the Tygart River). Under a highway bridge with a small waterfall and a sliding rock. Can be crowded. Watch for broken glass, wear foot protection and take a bag to take out trash when you leave. To get here from Grafton, take RT 50 east to Thornton then Iron Town Rd. (CR 7) north along Three Fork Creek. Here is where our directions are uncertain: As you go north along the creek you will encounter 2-3 bridges over the creek. The swimming hole is under one of these bridges. No better directions, LAT, LON lat=39.420178, lon=-79.883035(source: map) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Uncertain. Not verified. Updated 7/2018.

ARDEN FALLS [ARDE]: (Also known as Moats Falls). Popular swimming hole in the Tygart River. Large flat rocks to jump from and quiet water to swim. LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO , LINK TO YOUTUBE VIDEO.

NOTE: Here is a cautionary email about swimming here: "Just wanted to note that there are some nasty rapids along that area of the Tygart. I go to Arden almost once a week in the summer, and there are some great swimming holes, but I felt the need to mention that the current in certain parts is very strong. There are a few drownings there each year, I think because some people either misjudge the current/their strength, or float down river expecting the current to stay calm. Still, it's a great place to swim so long as you stay in the calm areas and avoid drifting off down stream. Safety first!"

To get here from Grafton, take RT 119 (Beverly-Fairmont Pike) south through Webster then take Arden Rd. (CR 6) east then stay on Arden Rd. (CR 6) for about 3.5 miles as it twists and turns several times then turn east (right) on Laurel Creek Rd (CR 12) and proceed to the bridge over the Tygart River at Arden. Here is where our directions are uncertain: Somewhere upstream or downstream of this bridge is the Arden Falls swimming hole. No better directions, LAT, LON lat=39.21044, lon=-79.9937 (source: map) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Uncertain. Not verified. Updated 5/2011.

CONFIDENCE Uncertain
VERIFIED No
DATE UPDATED 5/2011



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HOLLY RIVER S. P.
(HOLR)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
PHOTO 3
PHOTO 4
TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BUCKHANNON, WEBSTER SPRINGS
LAT, LON lat=38.6370, lon=-80.3220(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Left Fork Holly River
TYPE River/chute
DESCRIPTION Main chute and side chute dump clean, clear water into huge pool at the bottom. CAUTION DO NOT SWIM HERE IF CURRENT IS STRONG. This is from a fan: "Shupe's Chute is where the entire contents of the North Fork of the Holly River is funneled through a cleft in the quartzite bedrock about four feet wide. The noise is deafening. More furious than the huge Upper Falls about a quarter of a mile above the Chute. There is an absolutely phenomenal swimming hole at the base of Shupe's Chute."
AREAS Holly River S. P.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES All facilities at State Park
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping site in State Park.
BATHING SUITS Customary - very exposed
DIRECTIONS From Buckhannon, take RT 20 south about 35 miles to Holly River S. P.. From the entrance to the Holly River State Park, continue south on RT 20 about 1 mile to Holly River Left Fork Road and turn left. Drive 4.1 miles to road on the right marked with a small sign for Shupes Chute and the Potato Knob Section of the park. Park and walk follow the signs to the Upper Falls (photo 1 above) and, about .25 miles further, to Shupe's Chute (photo 2 above) . Also If you follow the Potato Knob path downstream even further, you come to Lower Falls, (photos 3 and 4 above)which are very isolated. The water goes over a falls, then along some rocks, then over another smaller falls into a small swimming hole.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Partially
DATE UPDATED 5/2011



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


HORSESHOE BEND AREA
[2 PLACES]
(HORS)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS DAVIS, THOMAS, PARSONS
STATE WV
WATER Varies- See below
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Several modest swimming holes in the area of Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area in the Monongahela N. F. For details see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Monongahela N.F., Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilet, Picnic tables (at campground)
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping in Horseshoe Bend N.F. campground. Very nicely, developed campground, with large overflow area. Apparently, some sites can be reserved.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Thomas, north on RT 219, pass thru middle of quarry area, immediately after quarry is narrow paved rd (RT 9) on left. Take RT 9 down grade to T intersection at town of Lead Mine. Go left on RT 7, Then:

HORSESHOE BEND[HORB]: Deep place in Laurel Fork creek at back of Horseshoe Bend campground. About chest deep now, apparently used to be deeper but dam is washed out. Attractive site, beautiful valley. To get here: Go on RT 7 to the Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area. LAT, LON lat=39.18153, lon=-79.60192(source:DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified. Updated 2/11/2003.  


MAXWELL RUN[MAXW]: Short hike to small-ish swimming hole above a waterfall in Maxwell Run. LAT, LON lat=39.16263, lon=-79.60468(source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Go past the Horseshoe Rec Area (above) on RT 7 and park on the right just before you cross the Maxwell Run bridge (see sign). The trailhead is on the same side of the bridge but on the other side of the road (may be hard to see trail from road). You will be hiking upstream on this trail (blue blazes occasionally) with the creek on your right. There is private property in this area (well marked) but you can go up this trail staying on National Forest property if you are careful. (The swimming hole itself is clearly on National Forest property.) You will eventually cross the creek following and old roadbed and, at about .75 mile, there will be a series of small falls and cascades PHOTO OF FALLS in the creek, now on your left. When you see the falls that is about 4 feet high off of a ledge, go a short way further and you will see a swimming hole PHOTO OF SWIMMING HOLE . Very confident. Verified. 5/2007.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 5/2007



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


KINGWOOD AREA
[3 PLACES]
(KINA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS MORGANTOWN, KINGWOOD, ROWLESBURG
STATE WV
WATER Cheat River/Pringle Run
TYPE Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION Swimming holes in the beautiful, clean Cheat River and tributaries. Consider making a donation to the FRIENDS OF THE CHEAT who do great work monitoring and cleaning up the Cheat and tributaries. CAUTION: The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times - be very careful to check the current before swimming here. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREAS none
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Tubing, Kayaking, Rafting
PHONE None
CAMPING At Swallow Falls S. P., east of here in MD, there are also swimming holes there.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From I-68 east of Morgantown, at exit 23 (Bruceton Mills) take RT 26 south to Kingwood. In Kingwood, take RT 7 (Main St.) east to RT 72 south (set odometer here) - you will be traveling south (upstream) along the beautiful and much-enjoyed Cheat River. Then:

PRINGLE RUN FALLS [PRIN]: At about 4.1 miles south of the intersection of RT 7 on RT 72 there is a small bridge over Pringle Run. Just BEFORE you cross this bridge (i.e., north of the bridge) there is a steep dirt road going up to the west (right) and some room to park at the bottom. NOTE: This area appears to be owned by the US Army and (very infrequently) folks report having been told to leave by military personnel. LAT, LON: lat=39.41722, lon=-79.6925 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP

The falls are just about 0.25 mile up this steep and sometimes rough road. The road is blocked and you cannot drive a vehicle on the road. You can hike up the steep road. You can see and hear the falls from the dirt road. It is a short, steep climb down to the waterfall from this road. Surprisingly beautiful falls and cove - pool below. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO. Aquamarine water over colorful rock. Huge pool at the bottom. Flat rocks to sunbathe. NOTE: Pringle Run contains mine runoff consisting of a high level of acidic drainage (thus the clear water) and iron content (thus the colorful rocks). There is no known health hazard from swimming here - people have reported to us that they have swam here multiple times with no ill effects. Very confident. Verified 5/2007. Updated 7/2018

ROCK GARDEN [ROCG]: At about 5.8 miles south of the intersection of RT 7 on RT 72, there is a small pull off on the left (east) side of the road. An easy walk down to the Cheat River leads to a scattering of large rocks with deep places to swim among them. PHOTO. CAUTION: The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times - be very careful to check the current before swimming here. LAT, LON: lat=39.39748, lon=-79.68807 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/2011. Updated 8/2011.

PEWEE ROCK [PEWE]: (Also known as "Party Rock".) At about 6.9 miles south of the intersection of RT 7 on RT 72, there is a small pull off on the left (east) side of the road. An easy walk down to the Cheat River leads to a huge rock with a deep place below to swim. CAUTION: The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times - be very careful to check the current before swimming here. PHOTO . LAT, LON: lat=39.38915, lon=-79.70145 (source: measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/2011. Updated 8/2011.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 8/2011



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


KNAPP CREEK AREA
(KNAP)
[3 PLACES]

SEE PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS LEWISBURG, MARLINTON
STATE WV
WATER Knapp Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Several great swimming places on Knapp Creek on RT 39 east of Marlinton. See directions below for details.
AREAS Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING None at site
BATHING SUITS Unknown, exposed sites
DIRECTIONS From Marlinton (set odometer), go east on RT 39 along Knapp Creek into the Monongahela N.F.. Then:

KNAPP CREEK #1 [KNA1]: At about 3.1 miles east of Marlinton on RT 39, you will see on the right a collapsing small brown wooden shed and a road to the right after this with a cable across the road. Park and walk down this road to the creek. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.20820, lon=-80.05086 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

KNAPP CREEK #2 [KNA2]: At about 7.6 miles east of Marlinton on RT 39, you will see a wide spot in the road just before RT 28. Park here - the swimming hole is visible from the road. This place even has a diving board (but DONT DIVE - JUMP ONLY) PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON lat=38.17657, lon=-79.99688 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

KNAPP CREEK #3 [KNA3]: Continue east on RT 39 and, just before RT 92, park at the end of the guardrail on the right and walk down to river. The swimming hole is visible from the road. THERE MAY BE STRONG CURRENTS HERE - BE CAREFUL. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.16574, lon=-79.98579 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 6/2005
DATE UPDATED 6/22/2005



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


KUMBRABOW S. F. AREA
[2 PLACES]
(KUMB)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS ELKINS, HUTTONSVILLE
LAT, LON lat=38.6436, lon=-80.0915(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Mill Creek
TYPE Varies- See below
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes in Mill Creek in the Kumbrabow State Forest. For details see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Kumbrabow State Forest
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES All facilities are in State Forest
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Sliding
PHONE (304)-335-2219
CAMPING Camping in Mill Creek campground. Cabins can be rented also.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Elkins, take RT 219/250 south about 18 miles then keep right where RT 219 goes off. Continue on RT 219 to the sign for Kumbrabow State Forest. Take the road to the right into the State Forest and follow signs toward the Mill Creek Campground. Then:

MILL CREEK FALLS [MILF]: As you come close to the campground, see a sign for Mill Creek Falls and take the road to the right a short way (past the rental cabins) to the parking area for the falls. Walk a short way to the falls. This is a primo, classical swimming hole - large and deep at the foot of a broad falls with a rope swing. Be careful on the swing - there are some rock ledges under the water. The water is cold and the pool always in shade, but it is a fun place to swim. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON lat=38.68158, lon=-80.05194 (source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.Very confident. Verified. Updated 8/8/2007.

MILL CREEK CAMPGOUND [MILC]: Continue to the campground. The swimming hole at Mill Creek Campground is a smaller swimming hole with a sliding rock and is located in the campground just behind Camp site #9 (the disabled campsite). The hole itself is five to six feet deep, about twenty feet across, and eight or so wide. Not a big hole, but lots of fun with the sliding rock. Only campers are allowed to park at the campsite. If you're not camping there, you'd have to park at the top of the road and walk down to site #9 (near the toilet) and walk into the woods there to get to the swimming hole. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.6550, lon=-80.0717(source: Topozone) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 8/8/2007.
CONFIDENCE See above
VERIFIED See above
DATE UPDATED 8/8/2007



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


MEADOW RIVER EAST AREA
(MEAE)
[1 PLACE]

NO PHOTOS TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BECKLEY, FAYETTEVILLE, HICO
STATE WV
WATER Meadow River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Several fine swimming places in the Meadow River east of RT 19 before it dumps into the Gauley River. See directions below for details.
AREAS Gauley River N.R.A.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping at Bluestone S.P. south of Nimitz.
BATHING SUITS Varies-See below
DIRECTIONS From Fayetteville (watch out for speed trap on RT 19 in Fayetteville - speed limit is reduced to 50mph here.) set your odometer and go north on RT 19, over the spectacular New River Bridge, through Hico and over the Meadow River Bridge - all told about 12 miles. Then:

BUBBIE HOLE [BUBB]: A series of classic swimming holes in the Meadow River. The one called Bubbie Hole is traditionally clothing optional. There are two ways to approach this series of holes: (The directions below are from two different sources and don't add up - it is more than 1.75 mile hike from RT 19 to the Bubbie Hole near RT 41: the "second way" below. We believe you get to swimming holes either way, but if someone can help straighten us out this would be appreciated)

First way: From north on RT 19, take the first left after the Meadow River Bridge on Underwood Street. Immediately after turning on Underwood go left on Deitz (not even .1 mile). When you turn on Deitz, set your odometer and drive .25 miles. Park on the side of the road. There are a few paths that all lead into one...You will hike down hill about .75 miles parallel to RT 19 (steep and rocky) down to the Meadow River. Once you are down to the Meadow River, turn left (upstream) and, following an ATV trail, hike under the RT 19 highway bridge and continue upstream. There are said to be at least 3 swimming holes along here. One is at about 1 mile upstream, another at about 1.25 miles. Bubbie hole itself is said to be at about 1.75 miles. (One of the three- not sure which - is at a steel structure (little shack) and there is a fire ring. Here the beach is across the river. When the river is running high you can jump off the boulders.

Second way: This way takes you directly to the Bubbie Hole PHOTO with little walking. LAT, LON lat=38.134935, lon=-80.887914(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate for Bubbie Hole) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To go this way, continue north on RT 19 and turn right on Mt. Lookout Rd. Go until this road ends at RT 41 then turn right on RT 41. Follow RT 41 past the water treatment plant. About .2 mile past the treatment plant, watch for a large boulder beside the road on the right where there is ample parking for about 2 vehicles (safely). Park and follow the path down to the water. Has a large sandy beach.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED By another, 7/2013
DATE UPDATED 7/2013



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


MOUNT STORM AREA
[5 PLACES]
(MOUA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNSCUMBERLAND (MD), KEYSER (WV), MORGANTOWN (WV)
STATE WV
WATER Varies -see below
TYPE Varies -see below
DESCRIPTION Swimming places near Mount Storm. For details, see "DIRECTIONS" below. See also nearby in Maryland: POTOMAC S. F. AREA and SWALLOW FALLS S.P. AREA and GREEN RIDGE S.F. AREA
AREAS None
SANCTION Official
FEE Varies -see below
FACILITIES Varies -see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Varies -see below
CAMPING Developed camping nearby at Jennings Randolph Lake. Lots of campgrounds south of here in the Monongahela N.F.. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere in the N.F.. Camping nearby at private campgrounds.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From I-68 in Cumberland, MD, take RT 220 south to Keyser, WV, then RT 972 south to RT 50 then RT 50 west to the intersection with RT 42 north. Then (set odometer):

BARNUM HOLE[BARN]: Huge, deep swimming hole in the North Branch Potomac River with rock bluff to jump from. CAUTION DO NOT SWIM HERE IF CURRENT IS STRONG. CHECK DEPTH BEFORE JUMPING. PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=39.45526, lon=-79.10255(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO TOPOZONE MAP , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Developed camping very nearby at Jennings Randolph Lake. Toilet and picnic facilities in county park nearby. No camping at the site.

To get here from the intersection of RT 50 and RT 42 north, take RT 42 north then RT 46 north (right turn) to Jennings Randolph Lake (you can swim and camp here as well). Go about 2 more miles on RT 46 then turn north (left) on RT 64-2 (Barnum Rd.) Follow this road to its end (about 3.3 miles), past the county park (has picnic tables and toilets, river access, no camping), to the very end at a large parking area. The huge swimming hole is right here. Very confident. Verified 9/06. Updated 9/12/06.

ABRAMS CREEK [ABRA]: Abram's Creek Retreat and Campground is a privately-owned, primitive, unspoiled, natural water wonderland with waterfalls, swim holes, deeper chasms and cascades everywhere. Has camping, small cabins and tipi rentals. Various programs are offered as well. Fees are charged. Call 703-328-1840 for reservations BEFORE visiting. Please see the website for photos, directions, and tons of info: Abram's Creek Retreat and Campground . LAT, LON lat=39.32016, lon=-79.21384(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO TOPOZONE MAP , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

To get here from the intersection of RT 50 and RT 42 north (above), proceed on RT 50 for 4.3 more miles and you will come to a concrete bridge that crosses Abram's Creek (not signed). Turn right onto gravel road just before the bridge - mailbox says "Lombardi". (If you end up in the town of Mt. Storm, you've gone about 3 miles too far.) Proceed along gravel road past the small white house and larger stream front home. Bear to right and go past entrance fence poles. Proceed along road (dirt section becomes improved with gravel) and park near port-a-potty (overflow parking area) to unload. Simply follow the path (low road) past the cabin and down to the stream / main bon-fire area.

SCHELL ROAD [SCHE]: Deep swimming hole in the (relatively warm) North Branch Potomac River with rocks all around and good jumping from a small cliff. For lots of photos and information, see the Abrams Creek website. NOTE: This road is very rough and it is better to access it from the MD side of the river with better roads, see Potomac State Forest Area, Maryland, Laurel Run for the MD approach. CAUTION DO NOT SWIM HERE IF CURRENT IS STRONG.

Directions via Schell Rd. (from Abrams Creek website): Continue just .2 miles west on RT 50 from the turn off for Abram's Creek (above) and turn right onto Schell Rd. Proceed for 4.7 miles (at mile 3.5, keep left down the hill) to a rounded parking area at the AT&T fiber optic crossing and railroad tracks (The first 2 miles of this trip are paved, the next 2 miles gravel and the last one mile very rough earth and rock - 4 wheel drive/high clearance required.). Walk across the railroad track and take any trail down to the big water hole. Go upstream or downstream about .25 mile to see the sights in the photos on the Abrams Creek website. LAT, LON lat=39.34256, lon=-79.25733(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO TOPOZONE MAP , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

LAUREL RUN [LAUR]: These swimming holes and low falls are in Laurel Creek just across the North Branch Potomac from the Schell Road location above. It is actually in MD and can be accessed from the MD side (by better roads and without crossing the river), see Potomac State Forest Area, Maryland, Laurel Run for the Maryland approach. For lots of photos and information, see the Abrams Creek website.

Directions via Schell Rd.: From the Schell Road swimming hole (above), wade across the North Branch Potomac River at low water ONLY IF THE CURRENT IS BELOW YOUR THIGHS AND ONLY IF IT IS SAFE to get to Laurel Run just to the right of the destroyed concrete bridge across the river. Walk upstream along Laurel Run to see the sights in the photos on the Abrams Creek website. LAT, LON lat=39.34256, lon=-79.25733(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO TOPOZONE MAP , LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

MOUNT STORM LAKE [MOUN]: Mt. Storm Lake is used for cooling by a large coal-burning power plant and thus is said to average about 20 degrees above normal (for the whole lake). It appears to be a popular scuba diving location as well. There is a boat launch area where you can also swim. Bathing suits required. For photos and information, see the Abrams Creek website. Picnic tables and porta-potti. PHOTO 1 . LAT, LON : lat=39.20790, lon=-79.25909(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

To get here from RT 50 and RT 42 north (above), proceed west on RT 50 (past the above swimming holes) to the town of Mt. Storm (intersection of RT 42 south and RT 50). Take RT 42 south for about 4 miles and bear right on RT 93. Proceed on RT 93 for about 2.7 miles until you see the large power plant. Just before the dam and power plant, bear left into a signed gravel / asphalt parking area with dock, port-a-potty, boat ramp and lake swimming access. Park and enjoy.)

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes
DATE UPDATED 9/11/2006



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


OTTER CREEK AREA
[4 PLACES]
(OTTA)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS ELKINS, PARSONS
LAT, LON lat=39.0417, lon=-79.6433(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Otter Creek
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION In and around the Otter Creek Wilderness in the Monongahela N.F. are numerous swimming places in creeks.
AREAS Monongahela N. F., Otter Creek Wilderness Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE None
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING Camping nearby at Stuart a National Forest campground, swimming there also. See "STUART" swimming hole.
BATHING SUITS Optional in some places
DIRECTIONS From Parsons, go southeast on RT 219/72, continue on RT 72 to Hendricks then go about 3 miles south of Hendricks on RT 72 to a parking area for Otter Creek Wilderness. For the places along the Otter Creek Trail, park at the trailhead (above) and hike downhill then cross a swinging bridge over the Dry Fork of the Cheat River then turn right and walk downstream a short way to where Otter Creek comes into the river at the Otter Creek Wilderness sign. Turn left and go up the log stairs onto the Otter Creek Trail (TR 131) and continue west on it. You will come to the wilderness boundary sign and a place to register - all distances below are from this point. There are many apparent several swimming holes along here in Otter Creek. There are two beautiful waterfalls on this hike. One is approx. 15 ft. tall and you can stand under it. The other one is more of a cascade with a small drop. If you scout there are places to swim with bathing suit optional. Three of the largest swimming places are:

OTTER #1 [OTT1]: A very large pool just about .75 miles from the boundary sign - easily seen from the trail. There is a log on the right that forms the edge of the trail and a broad, short path down to the creek. Large flat rock to jump from. PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=39.04336, lon=-79.62896(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/2007. Updated 5/2007.

OTTER #2 [OTT2]: Another very large and scenic pool fed by a small waterfall at about 1.5 miles from the boundary sign - not easily seen from the trail. You will know you are approaching it on the trail when you see trees sawed off to keep the trail clear. When you get to a large tree on the ground sawed off at the trail, look right toward the creek and see a huge pointy rock sticking up in clear view. There are flat rocks across the creek here to jump from. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON : lat=39.0417, lon=-79.6433(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/2007. Updated 5/2007.

OTTER #3 [OTT3]: Pool fed by current between two big rocks at about 2.6 miles from the boundary sign. LAT, LON : lat=39.0325, lon=-79.6550(source: Measured-p) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/2007. Updated 5/2007.

DRY FORK POOL [DRYF]: If you continue PAST the trailhead parking above on RT 72 for another (about) 1.2 miles you will see an unmarked road going off to the right along the Dry Fork (RT 26). Follow this road for about 1.5 miles to where a hayfield is along the right side, between the road and the river, and there is a distinct trail across the field to the river and a local swimming hole. There is often lots of trash here - please bring a bag and take some out. PHOTO , PHOTO . PHOTO . LAT, LON : lat=39.01833, lon=-79.5728(source: Measured-p) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 5/2007. Updated 2/2013.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 5/2007
DATE UPDATED 2/2013



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


PETERSBURG AREA
[2 PLACES]
(PETA)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS PETERSBURG, CABINS, WELTON
STATE WV
WATER Varies, see below
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming places in branches of the Potomac River - easy access, family places BUT AVOID WHEN CURRENTS ARE HIGH. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Varies, see below
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Varies - see below
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Crawdad catching
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Big Bend is a neat place to camp near here. Also Seneca Shadows campground. Both are National Forest campgrounds. Big Bend is also a great swimming hole, see "BIG BEND" listing.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS Directions are from Petersburg:

WELTON PARK [WELT]: Swimming place in the river at local park. Access is easy and it is great for small children because there is an area as you go in that has no current at all. Current out in the middle can be pretty swift. PHOTO . Lots of crayfish. Bring nets and proper buckets if you want to catch them. There is a nice playground and several pavilions there. The only shade is the picnic pavilion and the sun can get pretty harsh there on a bright day - keep well covered. LAT, LON : lat=39.000, lon=-79.087(source: Measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From Petersburg, take RT 55/28/220 east a short way to Welton, just west of the Grant County/Hardy County line. The swimming place is in a local park here on the South Branch of the Potomac River. Verified 7/04. Very confident. Updated 7/04.

RIVER ACCESS HOLE [RIVE]: Swimming place at a "River Access" point in the North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River. PHOTO . Nice rocks, deep in the middle shallow elsewhere, easy access. Jumping possible. Also designated as a fishing place. in the river at local park. LAT, LON : lat=38.9859, lon=-79.2419(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From Petersburg, take RT 55/28 west through Cabins. About .4 miles after you pass the Smoke Hole road bridge on RT 55/28 (well signed), SLOW DOWN and see partly hidden in the bushes on the right, a sign saying "River Access", the access road itself is on the left. It is easy to miss this sign - might have to turn around to make the turn. Turn in here and park. The swimming hole is right there. Verified 7/04. Very confident. Updated 7/04.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED yes, 7/04
DATE UPDATED 7/29/2004



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


RED CREEK
(REDC)

PHOTO. TO STATE MAP
TOWNS PETERSBURG, HOPEVILLE
LAT, LON lat=38.9978, lon=-79.3555(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy:approximate)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Red Creek
TYPE Falls/Slide
DESCRIPTION Hike along Red Creek in the Dolly Sods Wilderness to an area that has primitive camping, several falls with pools below and sliding rocks in the creek. For details, see DIRECTIONS below. (See also SENECA AREA which is nearby.)
AREAS Monongahela N.F., Dolly Sods Wilderness
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming, sliding, jumping
PHONE None
CAMPING Red Creek Campground is nearby on RT 75; Seneca Shadows Campground is further away, south on RT 33/28. Primitive camping is permitted in the area - BUT DO NOT CAMP NEAR THE SWIMMING HOLES PLEASE, IT IS WAY OVER USED.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS To get there from Petersburg, take RT 55 southwest about 9.25 miles then, just before Hopeville, turn sharply right (north) on Jordon Run Rd. (County Rd 28/7) then, in less than 1 mile, turn west (left) on FR 19. Then: (2 ways to get here):

First way: Go about 6 miles west on FR 19 then turn north (right) on FR 75. Drive 3.2 miles to the trailhead for the Fisher Spring Run Trail, TR 510. Trail Map. Park and hike this trail about 2 miles, keeping to the right, along Fisher Spring Run to where Fisher Spring Run meets Red Creek. There are a couple of tricky creek crossings, some very big boulders to negotiate on the lower parts of the trail and it gets real steep at the end - difficult for small children.

Second way: Continue west on FR 19 past FR 75. Just before you get to RT 45 (about 3.5 miles past FR 75) there is a brown gamekeepers cabin where you may park. Hike on TR 514 (Red Creek Trail) about 2.5 miles (considered a "strenuous" hike) to where it intersects TR 510, where Fisher Spring Run enters Red Creek.

Either way: On Red Creek, both above and below where Fisher Spring Run enters it, are 3 small waterfalls with swimming holes at the bottom of each.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED no
DATE UPDATED 2/4/2003



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SANDSTONE FALLS
(SAND)

PHOTO 1
PHOTO 2
TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS HINTON
LAT, LON lat=37.7583, lon=-80.9020(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER New River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Shallow waterfalls in New River, can swim in pools. Many jacuzzi-like pools formed by falls. BE VERY CAREFUL HERE - I received this warning in 5/2005:"When water is let out of the Bluestone Dam it comes fast and hard. Many people have drowned at this spot, including strong swimmers. There is a warning sound before the water is let out, but people have died while trying to get to the bank. Swimmers should be advised to use extreme caution at this wonderful site. It is also known to locals as "Mermaid Flats."
AREAS New River Gorge National River
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilets
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING None at site, camping at Bluestone S.P. and Pipestem S.P. nearby.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Hinton, go north on RT 26 to signs for Sandstone Falls. Walk out boardwalk to overlook at end. Go down off boardwalk to river bank, walk to flat rocks nearby. Many jacuzzi-like pools formed by falls.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SENECA AREA
(3 PLACES)
(SENE)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS PETERSBURG, SENECA ROCKS, RIVERTON,
STATE WV
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE River/Falls
DESCRIPTION In the area of Seneca Rocks and Seneca Creek of the Monongahela N. F. are several swimming holes, some easy access and others requiring hikes of 2-5 miles. See DIRECTIONS below for details. (See also RED CREEK which is nearby.)
AREAS Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES None
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE None
CAMPING A short distance south of Seneca Rocks on RT 33/28 there is camping at the Seneca Rocks Shadows, a Monongahela N.F. campground.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Petersburg, take RT 55 southwest to Seneca Rocks, then:

CAVE HOLE [CAVE]: Beneath the towering Seneca Rocks is a very scenic river swimming hole in the North Fork/South Branch Potomac. On one side it features a rocky gravel beach while across the river the rocks rise steeply providing ledges for sunning. No fee. Unofficial. Bathing suits customary. Family-friendly place, rapids to sit in - don't dive, there are hidden rocks. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO. LAT, LON lat=38.8394, lon=-79.3683(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Turn into the Seneca Rocks Picnic Area and turn left and park in the north most part of the parking lot. The path to the swimming hole is on the right (east) side of this lot, between the trash cans and the sign. The swimming place is easily accessed via this short path. Very confident. Verified. Updated 2/4/2003.  


FALLS OF SENECA [FALL]: Swimming place at bottom of falls in Seneca Creek. About a 3-4 mile hike. No fee. Unofficial. Bathing suits unknown. LAT, LON lat=38.8184, lon=-79.4909(source: Topozone) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From the Seneca Rocks visitors center, turn west (right) onto RT 33/55 and go about 5 miles to County Rd 7 on the left (south). Go about 2 miles south on RT 7 to the trailhead on the left. Park and hike up this trail along Seneca Creek (must cross creek several times) about 3-4 miles to the falls. SENECA BACKCOUNTRY TRAILS MAP. Along this trail, you will encounter a locked gate and a sign saying that the property belongs to a hunt club. This is a well-travelled hiking trail and many hikers continue on around this gate to the falls. Pretty confident. Partially verified- hiked up to the gate mentioned above but never proceed to the falls, 10/2000. Updated 2/4/2003

UPPER FALLS OF SENECA CREEK [UPPE]: Hike about 5 miles to the Upper Falls of Seneca Creek. A 12-15 feet high falls drops into equally deep pool of emerald green (cold) water. No fee. Unofficial site. Bathing suits unknown. PHOTO. LAT, LON lat=38.77175, lon=-79.50828(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: you could continue hiking up Seneca Creek from the Falls of Seneca but it is a long way. A better way is, from the Seneca Rock visitors center, go south on RT 33/28 to Riverton then 2 miles more to turn right (west) on CR 33-4. Continue onto FR 112. Follow FR 112 to Spruce Knob then 6 miles more and park at the Seneca Creek trailhead. SENECA BACKCOUNTRY TRAILS MAP. Hike north on this trail about 5 miles to the Upper Falls of Seneca Creek. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 2/4/2003.

CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Yes, 10/2000
DATE UPDATED 12/13/2000



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


STUART
(STUA)

PHOTO TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS ELKINS, BOWDEN
LAT, LON lat=38.9222, lon=-79.7783(source: measured) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Shaver's Fork
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Attractive, well developed swimming place, cool water, sandy beach, safe.
AREAS Monongahela N.F., Stuart Recreation Area
SANCTION Official
FEE Yes, $3.00 for day use
FACILITIES Toilet, Changing room, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Camping right at site in N.F. campground, $17 to camp, includes swimming. Very nicely, developed campground, woodsy setting.
BATHING SUITS Required
DIRECTIONS From Elkins, go east on RT 33 about 4 mi, turn north (left)on OLD RT 33/ RT 6, follow signs to Stuart Rec Area.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


SUMMERSVILLE CLIFFS AREA
[3 PLACES]
(SUMM)

NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TOWNS BECKLEY, FAYETTEVILLE, MT. NEBO, SUMMERSVILLE
LAT, LON lat=38.2355, lon=-80.8584(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:general area)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Summersville Lake
TYPE Lake/Cliffs
DESCRIPTION A number of high, steep cliffs one can climb up and jump off into very deep lake. CAUTION DO NOT CLIMB BEYOND YOUR SKILL LEVEL, THE WATER IS DEEP IF YOU FALL AND YOU COULD BE INJURED AGAINST THE CLIFF FACE. DO NOT CLIMB UP TO WHERE YOU ARE AFRAID TO JUMP, IT IS MUCH HARDER TO CLIMB BACK DOWN THAN UP! DO NOT CLIMB IF YOU ARE NOT A GOOD SWIMMER, THERE IS NO BEACH TO REST AT THE BOTTOM OF THE CLIFF. BRING AN APPROVED PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (LIFE VEST). I had this report from a happy visitor:" Upon my visit to these spots I came across very pleasant locals. They were more than happy to suggest jumping locations, and carried LIFE VESTS WHICH THEY TOSSED FROM THE CLIFFS BEFORE THEY JUMPED (DO NOT WEAR THE LIFE VEST FOR A HIGH JUMP!). The cliffs are high and there are few places to exit the water. A fair swimmer should have no trouble getting to shore, but when I return I will be sure to bring a flotation device for added comfort."
AREAS Summersville Lake Public Hunting and Fishing Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Unknown
ACTIVITIES Swimming, Jumping
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING There are several campgrounds on the lake. I believe there is camping at Long Point.
BATHING SUITS Unknown
DIRECTIONS From Fayetteville (watch out for speed trap on RT 19 in Fayetteville - speed limit is reduced to 50mph here.) set your odometer and go north on RT 19, over the spectacular New River Bridge, through Hico, over the Meadow River (see "Meadow River Area" swimming holes above)and through Mt. Nebo - all told about 20 miles. Then: (These places are listed in order from south to north along RT 19.)

WHIPPORWILL CLIFFS [WHIP]: Swimming place in lake has high, steep cliffs one can climb up and jump off. There are climber's bolts in the cliff in places to help climb. PHOTO LAT, LON lat=38.23261, lon=-80.85403(source: measured) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: On RT 19, about 20 miles north of Fayetteville, Whipporwill Rd is on the left (the last left before the bridge over the Lake/Gauley River.) (Has a sign on RT 19 but you could easily miss it, it is just a minor road.) This road bends right, follow it and then take the third dirt road on the left (may be muddy). Park and walk. From here, trails go to the water on the left (very steep and maybe muddy trail to water level, be careful) and the cliffs to the right. Very confident. Verified 6/2005. Updated 6/22/2005.

WATERFALL CLIFFS[WATE]: Another great jumping spot. It's a small cove surrounded by 50 foot cliffs. A nice waterfall drops about 30 feet into the lake. Like the rest of the lake, the water here is clear and deep. PHOTO lat=38.24303, lon=-80.84864 LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Continue north on RT 19 until just after you cross the bridge over the Lake/Gauley River take a right into a large gravel parking area. Park and walk along the jeep trail through the field and into the woods. The trail has many forks, best if you wait until someone who knows the way comes along and follow them (or just take all the forks to the right after you get in the woods, you will arrive at the top of the tallest cliff and can see all of the other spots from there.) After about .5 mile you will reach the cove and jumping place (if you take the correct forks!). This from a recent visitor: "finding it wasnt hard, the forks in the road were easy to distinguish because the correct forks looked used, the incorrect forks looked like they were unused for ages. Following the trail will take you to the 50 foot cliff, a little farther past that is a 10 foot cliff with a rope to climb to get back up. before the 50 foot cliff you can take the only fork that doesnt look un-used (to the left) and it will take you to the waterfall, which you can jump off of. You can then swim to the left and climb up a rope there and follow the trail (all lefts) to get right back to it. all in all, amazing spot 5/5 stars and can confirm it is there. " Very confident. Verified 7/12/2015. Updated 2/20/2016.

LONG POINT CLIFFS [LONG]: Another great jumping spot. Here you will find cliffs perfect for jumping. There are many ledges along Long Point, ranging from 100 to 10 feet. Little worry about hitting under water rocks - the lake is nearly 300 feet deep, and on a good day yields 70 feet of visibility. LAT, LON lat=38.2209, lon=-80.8649(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Continue north on RT 19 (maybe another mile) then turn left (west) on Long Point Access Road (CR 19-32). Follow this road through the Summersville Lake recreation area until you reach a gate. Park here and follow the well marked hiking trail for 1.5 miles to the Long Point overlook. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 10/21/2003.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Varies - see above
DATE UPDATED 6/22/2005



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


WATOGA S. P.
(WATO)

PHOTO TO STATE MAP  
TOWNS COVINGTON (VA), LEWISBURG, SEEBERT
LAT, LON lat=38.1037, lon=-80.1502(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact)
LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE WV
WATER Greenbrier River
TYPE River
DESCRIPTION Swimming places in Greenbrier River adjacent to Watoga State Park campground. May be shallow during dry spell.
AREAS Watoga S. P., Monongahela N.F.
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilet, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE (State Park) (304)799-4087
CAMPING There is camping right at the site in Watoga State Park. There are 2 camping areas,. The swimming places are at the "Riverside Campground". Some reservable sites (phone 1-800-CALL WVA). Very nice, wooded, developed campground, many sites right on Greenbrier River, beautiful setting.
BATHING SUITS Customary
DIRECTIONS From Lewisburg, take RT 219 north to RT 21 E, go through Seebert into Watoga S.P.. The "Riverside Campground" is right near this entrance. The swimming places are behind this camping area.
CONFIDENCE Highly confident
VERIFIED yes
DATE UPDATED 9/30/1999



This swimming hole listing is by www.swimmingholes.org


WILLIAMS RIVER AREA
[3 PLACES]
(WILL)

PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TOWNS LEWISBURG, MARLINTON
STATE WV
WATER Varies - see below
TYPE Creek
DESCRIPTION Several swimming holes in the Monongahela N.F. in or near the Cranberry Wilderness. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS Monongahela N.F., Cranberry Backcountry, Tea Creek Rec. Area
SANCTION Unofficial
FEE No
FACILITIES Toilets at Tea Creek Campground and at Three Forks of the Williams area.
ACTIVITIES Swimming
PHONE Unknown
CAMPING Teacreek campground and Day Run campground are nearby off RT 86. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere.
BATHING SUITS Optional
DIRECTIONS From Lewisburg take RT 219 north about 40 miles to Marlington. From Marlinton, continue on RT 219/55 North through Edray to RT 150 (Highland Scenic Highway). Take RT 150 west about 12 miles to intersection with RT 86. Take RT 86 west, then:

TEA CREEK [TEAC]: Hike from Tea Creek Campground in Monongahela N.F. about 3 miles (each way) to swimming hole in Tea Creek . There is also a nice (primitive, backpacking) camping area right by the swimming hole where there may also be a lean-to for camping without a tent. LAT, LON lat=38.3610, lon=-80.2070(source:Topozone) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Go less than a mile west on RT 86 (from RT 150) to the Tea Creek Campground (Monongahela N.F.). Turn right as you enter the campground and park here at the trailhead. Enter the trail, cross Tea Creek and take the first trail on your left going up Tea Creek (do not take Tea Creek Mountain Trail, which is further in). Hike the Tea Creek trail to the northeast along Tea Creek. After about (very approximate) 3 miles of easy, level hiking, come to a primitive camping area (may have lean-to) by the creek (before you get to the Right Fork of Tea Creek). The swimming holes is here in Tea Creek. Pretty confident. Partially verified (trailhead only) 6/2005. Updated 6/22/2005.

WILLIAMS RIVER [WILR]: Driving along RT 86 west of Tea Creek, you are going along the Williams River and there are several swimming holes here that are visible from the road. Very confident. Verified 6/2005. Updated 6/22/2005. In miles from RT 150 they are:

At 4.0 miles - Large pull out on right, sign says "catch and release", 2 holes in river right here. PHOTO, PHOTO . LAT, LON lat=38.36441, lon=-80.26825(source: Measured) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP.

At 4.7 miles - Small pull out on right, hole in river. PHOTO. NO LAT, LON.

BEECHY RUN [BEEC]: Hike to pool at bottom of a waterfall in Beechy Run at the Middle Fork of the Williams River; also tubs carved out of creek bed rock. LAT, LON lat=38.3278, lon=-80.3325(source: DeLorme-p) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP To get here: Take RT 86 west about 11.4 miles (from RT 150) to The Three Forks of the Williams River. Here there is a bridge, DO NOT CROSS THE BRIDGE, take a left turn onto FR 108 just before (east of) the bridge. This road dead ends shortly where there is a parking area, picnic tables and toilets.

There are a number of trailheads that begin near here. You want trail TR 271, the Middle Fork Williams River trail. I am not real clear how to find Trail 271 - I am told that if you wade across the creek which is here then walk left down a path a short way that you will find a large map of the trails in this area from which you can find the Trail 271 trailhead. Hike about 2.5 miles on trail 271 to where Beechy Run meets the Middle Fork of the Williams River. Just upstream from this point on Beechy Run are both a waterfall with a swimmable pool at bottom and swimmable tubs carved out of rock in the streambed. Both are small but swimmable. Primitive camping is permitted. Very confident. Partially verified 6/2005. Updated 6/22/2005.
CONFIDENCE Very confident
VERIFIED Some-see above
DATE UPDATED 6/22/2005


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