How many swimming holes are in WV?

Our directory lists 30 natural swimming destinations in WV, spanning 4 water types: Rivers (9), Creeks (8), Falls/rivers (1), Hot Springs (1). Of these, 2 (7%) are free to access and 28 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does WV have?

WV's 30 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 Anthony Creek/Greenbrier River, Greenbrier River, Middle Fork River, Shavers Fork, Hot Springs.

Which swimming holes in WV are free?

2 of the 30 swimming holes in WV (7%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 28 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 WV?

Swimming destinations in WV are clustered around LEWISBURG, ANTHONY, ALVON, RONCEVERTE. 29 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 1 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

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

Based on the conditions reported across WV'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 WV safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 29 officially managed sites in WV 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 WV?

Most swimming holes in WV 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. 28 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 WV?

Our directory lists 30 natural swimming destinations in WV, spanning 4 water types: Rivers (9), Creeks (8), Falls/rivers (1), Hot Springs (1). Of these, 2 (7%) are free to access and 28 require an entry fee or parking pass.

What types of swimming spots does WV have?

WV's 30 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 Anthony Creek/Greenbrier River, Greenbrier River, Middle Fork River, Shavers Fork, Hot Springs.

Which swimming holes in WV are free?

2 of the 30 swimming holes in WV (7%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 28 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 WV?

Swimming destinations in WV are clustered around LEWISBURG, ANTHONY, ALVON, RONCEVERTE. 29 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage. 1 are informal or unofficial access points — these require more research before visiting.

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

Based on the conditions reported across WV'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 WV safe for families and children?

Safety varies significantly by location. 29 officially managed sites in WV 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 WV?

Most swimming holes in WV 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. 28 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 WV

Discover 30 amazing natural swimming destinations across WV. From pristine lakes to refreshing rivers, find your perfect swimming spot.

Swimming Holes

Types

Free Access

Fee Required

30 locations found

Creek

Fee

Anthony Creek Greenbrier Swimming Spots

LEWISBURG

Find directions and tips for swimming at Flat Rock on the Greenbrier River near Lewisburg, WV. Unofficial spot with picnic and camping nearby.

Anthony Creek/Greenbrier River

Swimming Holes in WV

Anthony Creek Greenbrier Swimming Spots

ANVIL ROCK

AUDRA S. P.

BEMIS AREA

BERKELEY SPRINGS S. P.

BIG BEND

Big Sandy Creek Swimming Holes, West Virginia

CAMP CREEK AREA

CEDAR CREEK S. P.

CRANBERRY RIVER AREA

DECKERS CREEK TRAIL

Elk River Swimming Holes in Webster County

Glade Creek Swimming Holes, West Virginia

Grafton Region Swimming Holes

HOLLY RIVER S. P.

Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County WV

Kingwood Region Swimming Holes

KNAPP CREEK AREA

Kumbrabow State Forest Swimming Spots

MEADOW RIVER EAST AREA

Mount Storm Swimming Spots

Otter Creek Wilderness Swimming Spots

Petersburg Region Swimming Holes

RED CREEK

SANDSTONE FALLS

SENECA AREA

STUART

Summersville Lake Cliff Swimming Spots

WATOGA S. P.

Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest

Overview

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