Generated illustration of a natural swimming setting; not a photograph of this location
RiverWV

Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County

By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated

Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.

Compare Elk Hole, Whitaker Falls and Bergoo Hole on the upper Elk River. Review separate locations, access uncertainties and trip-planning guidance.

Water type
River
Access
Informal
Fee
Confirm at the specific destination
Best season
Check current access, weather and river conditions before traveling
Nearby towns
Webster County, Valley Head, Webster Springs, Bergoo
Water body
Elk River

Location

Map & Directions

WV
Nearby towns
Webster County, Valley Head, Webster Springs, Bergoo
Access location not verified
BERGOO, WV
Approximate location based on the nearest town. Confirm the exact spot and access before you go.

Sources & checks

This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.

Swimming rules
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check with the land manager before entering the water.
Access location not verified
The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
Record updated
· This is a data update, not a field visit.

Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.

Upper Elk River swimming locations

This regional guide covers Elk Hole, Whitaker Falls and Bergoo Hole along the Valley Fork/Bergoo Road corridor east of Webster Springs. They are distinct destinations, not three names for the same pool. WVU's swimming guide identifies all three and provides separate location information.

Choose your destination first

Elk Hole is the pool associated with the old directory's CR 26 approach. Whitaker Falls is a separate cascade that West Virginia Tourism locates near Monterville in Randolph County. Bergoo Hole is farther along the corridor. The historical title refers to Webster County, but should not be read as placing every site inside that county.

Access and navigation

Use the source's individual location information rather than treating a single regional map pin as a parking place. Current public parking and bank-entry details have not been independently confirmed for each spot. The old quarry and odometer instructions are withdrawn pending route verification. Observe posted boundaries and do not block the road, driveways or gates.

Swimming and trip planning

Swimming use is documented, but depth, currents and water quality are not guaranteed. Do not jump or dive from ledges. Avoid high or fast water. The river also supports whitewater trips, which require separate planning and skills. Bring drinking water and arrange restrooms before arriving; private lodging or restaurant services are not confirmed public facilities for swimmers. Check accommodation operators directly for any overnight plans.

Getting There

Use WVU's separate location information for Elk Hole, Whitaker Falls and Bergoo Hole along the Valley Fork/Bergoo Road corridor east of Webster Springs. Confirm current legal parking and authorized bank access for the chosen site. The historical quarry and odometer-based route is withdrawn pending verification.

Access Notes

Three separate sites share this regional listing. Current parking and bank-entry details are not independently confirmed at each site.

Plan Your Visit

Parking & Access

Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.

Regulations & Fees

Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.

Seasonality & Flow

Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.

What to Bring

Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.

Map data retrieved 2026-06-15

Fall Run Falls

Hiking area

5 (17)

Co Rte 3/9, Webster Springs, WV 26288

Bakers Island

Park

4.5 (127)

Webster Springs, WV 26288

Barbecue grillBaseball fieldBasketball courtPicnic tables

Holly River State Park

State park

4.8 (624)

680 State Park Road, Hacker Valley, WV 26222

Seasonal cabins & campgrounds are available at this relaxed spot with plenty of outdoor activities.

Barbecue grillBaseball fieldBasketball courtHas a tennis court

Camp Holly

Campground

4.6 (65)

4531 Diana Dr, Diana, WV 26217

Boyer Station Campground

Campground

4.8 (29)

11038 Potomac Highlands Trail, Arbovale, WV 24915

Gauley Ranger Station

Forestry office

4.8 (5)

932 N Fork Cherry Rd, Richwood, WV 26261

Restrooms

Public bathroom

Napier, WV 26631

Audra State Park

State park

4.8 (1404)

Audra Park Rd, Buckhannon, WV 26201

Riverfront park popular with whitewater kayaking enthusiasts offering tent & RV camping sites.

Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomSlides

Frequently Asked Questions About Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County

Is Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County free to visit?

Reported fee information: Confirm at the specific destination. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.

Is swimming allowed at Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County?

Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Check with the land manager and follow posted restrictions.

What type of swimming spot is Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County?

Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County is a river on Elk River located in West Virginia, near Webster County. Compare Elk Hole, Whitaker Falls and Bergoo Hole on the upper Elk River. Review separate locations, access uncertainties and trip-planning guidance.

When is the best time to visit Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County?

Seasonal planning notes: Check current access, weather and river conditions before traveling. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.

What facilities are available at Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County?

Reported facilities at Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County include: Private businesses are not confirmed public swimmer facilities. Bring drinking water and arrange restrooms before arrival. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.

Is camping available near Elk River Swimming Holes In Webster County?

Check accommodation operators directly; no blanket camping permission or lodge availability established.

Highlights

Three separately identified upper Elk River sites
Whitaker Falls location distinguished from Elk Hole
Site-specific access planning

Unique Features

Pools and cascades along the upper Elk River

Location & Area Map

Safety Information

Important Safety Tips

  • Avoid high or fast water
  • Depth and water quality are not guaranteed
  • Respect posted boundaries and do not block road access

Cultural & Historical Context

Historical Background

This guide covers the upper Elk River corridor, not the downstream Elk River Water Trail near Sutton.

Photography Guide

Photo Opportunities

Photograph from authorized visitor areas; choose the specific destination before navigating.

Conservation & Ethics

Protect This Place

Respect property boundaries and pack out waste.

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At a Glance

Best Time to Visit
Check current access, weather and river conditions before traveling.
Difficulty Level
Varies by entry; current bank approaches not independently verified.
Fee
Confirm at the specific destination
Facilities
Private businesses are not confirmed public swimmer facilities. Bring drinking water and arrange restrooms before arrival.
Activities
Swimming at your own risk; whitewater is a separate activity
Phone
Unknown

Safety & Access Notice

This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.

You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.

Camping Information

Check accommodation operators directly; no blanket camping permission or lodge availability established.

Nearby Attractions

  • Webster Springs - Town

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Safety & Access Notice

This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.

  • Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
  • Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
  • Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
  • Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
  • Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
  • Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.

You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.

J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes

Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.

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