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

Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest

By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated

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

Plan the hike to the Forks of Tea Creek with Forest Service route guidance, distance, campground distinctions and backcountry swimming considerations.

Water type
Creek
Access
Informal
Fee
Current access fees not verified; campground fees are separate.
Best season
Check current weather, flow and access
Nearby towns
Lewisburg, Marlinton
Water body
Varies - See Below

Location

Map & Directions

WV
Nearby towns
Lewisburg, Marlinton
Access location not verified
MARLINTON, 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.

Tea Creek swimming in the Williams River area

The best-supported destination in this historical multi-location listing is the Forks of Tea Creek, a backcountry swimming hole in Monongahela National Forest. It is not the same place as Tea Creek Campground or Three Forks on the Williams River. WVU's Tea Creek guide identifies the campground as a popular southern trailhead for exploring this area.

Trail and distance

The Forest Service trail brochure describes reaching the Forks swimming hole at 2.8 miles from the campground via the Williams River Trail, Tea Creek Mountain Trail junction and Tea Creek Trail 454. Returning the same way is about 5.6 miles, before detours. Check a current map and trail notices; this is a brochure-based route, not a recent on-site survey.

Plan for changing conditions

The brochure describes a rustic shelter at the Forks and numerous unbridged crossings farther along Tea Creek Trail. Do not assume the shelter is usable or available, or continue upstream without planning for those crossings. The entire trail is longer than the hike to the swimming hole.

Facilities and swimming expectations

Pack for a backcountry hike rather than a developed beach visit. Campground facilities and charges are separate from the creek destination. No current swimming-depth or water-quality measurements are supplied here. Avoid jumping and diving, and turn back if rainfall or creek flow makes the approach or return unsuitable. The older listing's claims of reliably clear, calm summer water are not a conditions forecast.

Getting There

The Forest Service brochure starts the route at Tea Creek Campground, following Williams River Trail to the Tea Creek Mountain Trail junction, then Tea Creek Trail 454 toward the Forks of Tea Creek. The brochure places the swimming hole at 2.8 miles, about 5.6 miles out and back. Confirm current route and road access before departure.

Access Notes

Forest Service brochure describes a swimming hole at the Forks of Tea Creek. Its route information is not a live access or conditions report.

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

Greenbrier River Trail/Allegheny Trail Parking

Parking lot

5 (9)

9th St, Marlinton, WV 24954

Watoga State Park

State park

4.7 (687)

4800 Watoga Park Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954

Natural area with more than 10,000 acres of mountains featuring hiking trails, campgrounds & cabins.

Barbecue grillBasketball courtCycling lanesHas a tennis court

Marlinton Creek and Trail Campground

Campground

4.9 (31)

1121 3rd Ave, Marlinton, WV 24954

RestroomRunning waterTent sites

Day Run Campground

Campground

4.6 (14)

Marlinton, WV 24954

Public restroomRestroomTent sites

Tea Creek Campground

Campground

4.7 (81)

Marlinton, WV 24954

Public restroomRestroomRunning waterTent sites

Restroom Spruce Knob Parking

Public bathroom

3 (1)

17 Forest Service Rd 104, Riverton, WV 26814

Marlinton Ranger Station

Forestry office

4.7 (3)

1103 Cemetery Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954

Marlinton Ranger District

Forestry service

5 (1)

Cemetery Rd, Marlinton, WV 24954

Frequently Asked Questions About Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest

Is Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest free to visit?

Reported fee information: Current access fees not verified; campground fees are separate. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.

Is swimming allowed at Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest?

Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest. 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 Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest?

Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest is a creek on Varies - See Below located in West Virginia, near Lewisburg. Plan the hike to the Forks of Tea Creek with Forest Service route guidance, distance, campground distinctions and backcountry swimming considerations.

When is the best time to visit Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest?

Seasonal planning notes: Check current weather, flow and access; no calendar window guarantees suitable swimming conditions. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.

What facilities are available at Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest?

Reported facilities at Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest include: Campground amenities are separate from backcountry swimming locations. Current facility availability requires confirmation. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.

Is camping available near Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest?

Tea Creek and Day Run are separate campgrounds. Check current availability and camping rules; do not rely on a shelter being available.

Highlights

Forks of Tea Creek swimming destination
Brochure-based 5.6-mile out-and-back hike
Distinct from roadside Williams River facilities

Unique Features

Creek confluence reached by a backcountry trail

Location & Area Map

Safety Information

Important Safety Tips

  • No current water-quality or depth assessment
  • Carry navigation and hiking supplies and turn back from unsafe crossings

Cultural & Historical Context

Historical Background

Located in the heart of Appalachia, this area reflects the rich history of West Virginia, with nearby towns offering glimpses into local traditions and heritage.

Photography Guide

Photo Opportunities

Best spots include Tea Creek swimming hole, forest trails, and autumn foliage; ideal lighting during sunrise and sunset.

Conservation & Ethics

Protect This Place

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, avoid disrupting wildlife, and respect the natural environment to preserve its beauty.

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At a Glance

Best Time to Visit
Check current weather, flow and access; no calendar window guarantees suitable swimming conditions.
Difficulty Level
Backcountry hike of about 5.6 miles out and back; terrain and water conditions affect difficulty.
Fee
Current access fees not verified; campground fees are separate.
Facilities
Campground amenities are separate from backcountry swimming locations. Current facility availability requires confirmation.
Activities
Swimming
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

Tea Creek and Day Run are separate campgrounds. Check current availability and camping rules; do not rely on a shelter being available.

Nearby Attractions

  • Cranberry Glades Botanical Area - Natural Area
  • Marlinton, West Virginia - Town
  • Greenbrier River Trail - Trail
  • Lewisburg, West Virginia - Town
  • Watoga State Park - State Park
  • Highland Scenic Highway - Scenic Drive
  • Lost World Caverns - Natural Attraction

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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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