How many swimming holes are in PA?

Our directory lists 53 natural swimming destinations in PA, spanning 4 water types: Creeks (32), Rivers (3), Creek/Falls (3), Quarrys (2). Of these, 29 (55%) are free to access and 24 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does PA have?

PA's 53 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, lakes and reservoirs, spring-fed pools, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Varies-see below, Laurel Creek, Clark Run, Susquehanna River, Conococheague Creek.

Which swimming holes in PA are free?

29 of the 53 swimming holes in PA (55%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 24 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.

Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in PA?

Swimming destinations in PA are clustered around WILLIAMSPORT, WELLSBORO, BLACKWELL, CEDAR RUN. 44 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 9 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

When is the best time to visit swimming holes in PA?

Based on the conditions reported across PA's listed sites, fall tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Spring-fed pools in the state often maintain consistent temperatures year-round. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.

Are swimming holes in PA safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 44 officially managed sites in PA typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.

Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in PA?

Most swimming holes in PA do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 24 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.

How many swimming holes are in PA?

Our directory lists 53 natural swimming destinations in PA, spanning 4 water types: Creeks (32), Rivers (3), Creek/Falls (3), Quarrys (2). Of these, 29 (55%) are free to access and 24 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does PA have?

PA's 53 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, lakes and reservoirs, spring-fed pools, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Varies-see below, Laurel Creek, Clark Run, Susquehanna River, Conococheague Creek.

Which swimming holes in PA are free?

29 of the 53 swimming holes in PA (55%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 24 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.

Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in PA?

Swimming destinations in PA are clustered around WILLIAMSPORT, WELLSBORO, BLACKWELL, CEDAR RUN. 44 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 9 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

When is the best time to visit swimming holes in PA?

Based on the conditions reported across PA's listed sites, fall tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Spring-fed pools in the state often maintain consistent temperatures year-round. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.

Are swimming holes in PA safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 44 officially managed sites in PA typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.

Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in PA?

Most swimming holes in PA do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 24 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.

Swimming Holes in PA

Discover 53 amazing natural swimming destinations across PA. From pristine lakes to refreshing rivers, find your perfect swimming spot.

Swimming Holes

Types

Free Access

Fee Required

53 locations found

Creek

Free

Blackwell Region Swimming Holes

WILLIAMSPORT

Explore unofficial swimming and tubing spots along Pine Creek near Blackwell, PA. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice for this natural area.

Varies-see below

Swimming Holes in PA

Blackwell Region Swimming Holes

BLUE HOLE BARRONVALE

BUTTERMILK FALLS - HOMEWOOD

CITY ISLAND BEACH

CONOCOCHEAGUE CREEK

COOK FOREST S. P.

CREEK FALLS

DAVIDSVILLE

DEVILS WELL

DUTCH SPRINGS

ELEVEN FOOT HOLE

ELIJAH ROCK

Fairhope Wills Creek Swimming Holes

Ford City Allegheny River Swimming Spots

FOUR QUARTERS FARM

GALETON

THE GORGE

GREENWOOD FURNACE S. P.

HAMMERSLEY HOLE

HICKORY RUN S. P. AREA

JIM THORPE AREA

KELLETTVILLE

LITTLE ROCKY GLEN

LITTLE SHICKSHINNY CREEK FALLS

LITTLE SEWICKLEY CREEK

LOLETA

Loyalsock Creek Swimming Destinations in Pennsylvania

MARTINS MILL BRIDGE

Milford PA Swimming Holes

MOUNT GRETNA LAKE

Neshannock Creek Swimming Spots in Western Pennsylvania

Ohiopyle Meadow Run Swimming Hole

OLE BULL S. P.

Pine Creek Swimming Holes in Pennsylvania

PIRATE ROCK

QUAKERTOWN FALLS

R.B.WINTER S. P.

RICKETTS GLEN S. P.

ROARING BROOK

ROBINSON HOLE

Rock Run Swimming Spots in Lycoming County

SHORT HOLE

Stroudsburg and Port Jervis Swimming Spots

SUGAR CREEK

SWATARA

THORN CREEK

TIONESTA

Trough Creek Region Swimming Spots

WEST VINCENT

WHITE CLAY CREEK

WILLOW SPRINGS PARK

WINTERGREEN GORGE

YELLOW BREECHES CREEK

Overview

No swimming holes found

Explore More Swimming Adventures

Frequently Asked Questions