Thomas
Parking
West Virginia
Thomas is a city and former coal town in Tucker County, West Virginia, United States. The population was 623 at the 2020 census.
CreekWV
Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan a Horseshoe Run visit in Tucker County with developed recreation-area access, parking guidance, camping information and clear limits on informal creek spots.
Water type
Creek
Access
Informal
Fee
Confirm current day-use and camping charges
Best season
The September 21, 2026 seasonal report lists September 14, 2026 as this recreation area's closing date. Confirm current access and service availability with the Forest Service before travel
Nearby towns
St. George, Parsons
Water body
Horseshoe Run
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
St. George, Parsons
Access location not verified
PARSONS, 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.
Horseshoe Recreation Area and the surrounding creek
The developed Horseshoe Recreation Area is the best-supported destination within this older, broader Horseshoe Bend listing. Recreation.gov explicitly describes swimming and snorkeling in its day-use area along Horseshoe Run. Other informal spots previously grouped here have not received the same access confirmation.
Choose the developed access
Follow the published recreation-area directions below and use designated parking. Do not substitute an inviting roadside bank for an authorized entrance. The former broad directions through Lead Mine did not identify where visitors could park or enter the water.
Plan a creek visit
A published swimming activity is not a current water-quality result or a guarantee of suitable conditions. Check posted notices and local conditions before entering, avoid jumping or diving, and keep children within direct supervision. This review does not establish a lifeguarded service, a designated shallow children's area or an accessible water-entry route.
Facilities and camping
The recreation-area listing identifies toilets, picnic facilities and camping, but no showers or mobile coverage. Bring supplies and save directions before the drive. Confirm service availability and fees for your visit rather than relying on the old blanket claim of free admission. Camping and a day visit should be planned separately.
What this review covers
Published information was checked on October 5, 2026. This is not an on-site inspection. The previous map pin represented Parsons rather than a verified creek entrance and has been withheld. The listing's historical name is retained so existing links continue to identify the same area.
2026 seasonal operation
The September 21, 2026 seasonal report lists September 14, 2026 as this recreation area's closing date. Confirm current access and service availability with the Forest Service before travel; this does not establish a year-round river-use prohibition. Read the dated seasonal report.
Getting There
For the developed Horseshoe Recreation Area, follow Recreation.gov's route from Parsons: Route 72 northeast to Route 5 toward St. George, then Route 1 south to Route 7. Turn left on Route 7 and continue past Camp Horseshoe to the recreation-area entrance. The listed address is 3309 Horseshoe Run Road, Parsons, WV 26287. Use designated parking in the recreation area, not an assumed roadside space. These directions do not establish access to other informal creek spots.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
The September 21, 2026 seasonal report lists September 14, 2026 as this recreation area's closing date. Confirm current access and service availability with the Forest Service before travel; this does not establish a year-round river-use prohibition. Recreation.gov identifies swimming and snorkeling in the developed day-use area. This does not establish access at every creek bank. Use designated parking and check current operation, fees and conditions before travel.
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
Douglas Falls
Hiking area
4.8 (516)
Blackwater Canyon Trail, Thomas, WV 26292
Blackwater Falls State Park
State park
4.8 (6563)
1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260
Lodge, cabins & a restaurant are available at this scenic destination close to waterfalls & hiking.
Barbecue grillCycling lanesPicnic tablesPublic restroom
Blackwater Falls Boardwalk
Scenic spot
4.8 (656)
2 Canyon Point Rd, Davis, WV 26260
Blackwater Falls Campground
Campground
4.6 (202)
1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Rest Rite Campground
Campground
4.8 (125)
298 Pendleton Run Rd, Davis, WV 26260
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Restroom
Public bathroom
5 (1)
530 Paul E. Malone Rd, Grafton, WV 26354
Pisgah Ranger Station/Visitor Center
Tourist information center
4.8 (1083)
1600 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Restroom
Frequently Asked Questions About Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv
Is Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv free to visit?
Reported fee information: Confirm current day-use and camping charges. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv?
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv. 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 Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv?
Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv is a creek on Horseshoe Run located in West Virginia, near St. George. Plan a Horseshoe Run visit in Tucker County with developed recreation-area access, parking guidance, camping information and clear limits on informal creek spots.
When is the best time to visit Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv?
Seasonal planning notes: The September 21, 2026 seasonal report lists September 14, 2026 as this recreation area's closing date. Confirm current access and service availability with the Forest Service before travel; this does not establish a year-round river-use prohibition. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv?
Reported facilities at Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv include: Developed recreation-area facilities are separate from informal creek spots. Confirm current service availability before travel. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv?
Camping is available at the developed Horseshoe Recreation Area; check the reservation listing for availability and charges.
Highlights
Swimming listed in the developed day-use area
Creekside recreation in Tucker County
Use designated recreation-area parking
Separate planning for informal creek access
Unique Features
Developed recreation area along Horseshoe Run
Camping and day-use trip options
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Check conditions and notices before water entry
- Supervise children directly and do not assume a lifeguarded service or safe shallow area
- Use authorized access and parking
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
The historical Horseshoe Bend listing includes a developed recreation area and other unverified creek spots.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Creek and recreation-area scenery from authorized visitor areas.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out any trash to protect the area’s natural beauty.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
The September 21, 2026 seasonal report lists September 14, 2026 as this recreation area's closing date. Confirm current access and service availability with the Forest Service before travel; this does not establish a year-round river-use prohibition.
Difficulty Level
Use the developed recreation-area entrance. Water-entry difficulty and accessibility have not been independently verified.
Fee
Confirm current day-use and camping charges
Facilities
Developed recreation-area facilities are separate from informal creek spots. Confirm current service availability before travel.
Activities
Swimming
Phone
304-478-2481
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
Camping is available at the developed Horseshoe Recreation Area; check the reservation listing for availability and charges.
Nearby Attractions
- St. George - Community
- Parsons - 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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