MOSQUITO POINT

About Mosquito Point

Tucked along the banks of Schoharie Creek in New York's beloved Catskill region, Mosquito Point is the kind of place you stumble upon and never quite forget. Despite its name, this unofficial swimming hole offers something far more appealing than its moniker suggests: crystal-clear creek water rushing through a landscape of mossy boulders, overhanging trees, and the kind of deep green quiet that only the Catskills can produce. No lifeguards, no concession stands, no crowds — just you, the water, and the wild.

The Setting and Landscape

Schoharie Creek carves a winding path through the heart of the Catskills, and at Mosquito Point it reveals one of its more inviting personalities. The creek banks here are textured with smooth river stones and larger rocky outcroppings that catch the afternoon sun, making them perfect for stretching out after a swim. Stands of deciduous trees lean over the water, filtering the light into dappled patterns on the surface. In late spring and summer, the surrounding hillsides are a lush, almost overwhelming green. Come autumn, those same hillsides erupt in amber, crimson, and gold — making a fall visit feel less like a swim trip and more like a pilgrimage. Wildlife is a constant presence: keep your eyes on the tree line and the shallows, and you're likely to spot herons, kingfishers, and other creek-dwelling birds going about their unhurried business.

Swimming at Mosquito Point

The water in Schoharie Creek runs clear and cold even in the height of summer, with the kind of transparency that lets you count the pebbles on the bottom from several feet away. Depths vary throughout the swimming area, which means both cautious waders and confident swimmers will find their comfort zone. Expect to navigate some rocky terrain as you make your way to the water's edge — sturdy shoes for the approach are strongly recommended. Access involves crossing a small bridge before picking your way across the rocky creek bed, so this spot earns its moderate difficulty rating. The reward, though, is immersion in a genuinely unspoiled stretch of moving water that feels utterly removed from the ordinary world.

Plan Your Visit

Mosquito Point is a free, unofficial swimming area with no facilities on site — bring everything you need, including water, snacks, and a way to pack out your trash. There are no restrooms, no changing areas, and no amenities of any kind, which is precisely what gives the spot its appeal for those seeking a back-to-basics experience. The best time to visit runs from May through September, when air temperatures are warm enough to make the creek's cool waters feel like a relief rather than a shock. Fall visits reward you with extraordinary foliage even if the swimming season is winding down. The nearest towns — Kingston, Windham, and Jewett — each offer places to grab a meal, fuel up, or find a place to stay before or after your visit. Kingston in particular, about an hour's drive south, provides a full range of services and a vibrant arts scene worth exploring on either end of your trip.