Looking for the best swimming holes in Virginia? You've come to the right spot!
Anyone who lives in Virginia knows there's no better remedy for the heat than jumping into a swimming hole. Whether it's a hike to reach them or a simple back road, there's something so rewarding in discovering these hidden gems. With these incredible swimming holes in Virginia at your disposal, you can welcome the summer heat with open arms.
1. Blowing Springs, Warm Springs
Just a short distance from Blowing Springs Campground, visitors will find many wading places and some of the best swimming holes in Virginia to splash around in. This might also be a great opportunity for tubing, since a trail follows alongside the creek. You'll love visiting Blowing Springs.
Let's take a road trip to the Blowing Springs Campground in this video from Trail Heads:
2. Cave Springs, Dryden
Cave Springs is one of the largest campgrounds in Jefferson National Forest, offering exquisite campsites and hiking trails. Just a little exploring will prove that there will be more than a few places for taking a quick dip. Learn more about what Jefferson National Forest has to offer visitors.
3. Panther Falls, Buena Vista
The Panther Falls swimming hole is located just outside of Natural Bridge in Buena Vista. This VA swimming hole features a beautiful waterfall and is one of the more popular in the area. Panther Falls has much to offer!
4. Blue Hole at Jennings Creek, Botetourt
Jennings Creek's Blue Hole swimming hole is beloved among Botetourt County residents. You might spot an Appalachian Trail hiker or two cooling off from a long day's hike here. For those just wanting a quick visit, there's a small lot near Route 614. Looking for something a bit different? There are many more places to swim in Virginia.
5. Little Stony Creek Falls, Scott County
The Little Stony Recreation Trail is located between Coeburn and Dungannon. The trail was constructed for logging and is now enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts. The trail features two beautiful waterfalls: one eight-feet long and the other 24-feet long. At the bottom of each are some of the best swimming holes in Virginia. Check out this writeup to learn more about Little Stony Creek Falls.
Check out Little Stony Creek Falls on this hike to a beautiful swimming hole in Virginia and learn a few photography tips along the way in this video from Overexposed:
6. Walton Tract on the Cowpasture River, Bath County
Walton Tract is an area located on the Cowpasture River that provides a stunning view of wildlife and landscape. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing and swimming in these brisk and beautiful waters. Get all the details on Walton Tract from the Virginia DWR.
7. Roaring Run Falls, Eagle Rock
Roaring Run Falls is another spot in Botetourt County, just a few miles northwest of Eagle Rock. The Roaring Run Creek is well-known for its excellent trout fishing, but the recreation area also has some great places to swim in VA. Consider turning this swimming hole adventure at Roaring Run Falls into a short hike.
8. Wolf Creek, Burke's Garden
Wolf Creek is a small tributary of the North River located in the lush landscape of Burke's Garden. The mountain spring water will be incredibly brisk due to its high elevation, but it's still a great VA swimming hole. The Virginia DWR website can fill you in with more details about visiting Wolf Creek.
9. Pony Pasture, Richmond
Pony Pasture is an area of the James River that is one of the most popular spots for relaxing by the water. More specifically, it's a great spot for tubing and birdwatching, although swimming is always a popular activity. It's also one of the best spots for picnics that you'll find. It's important to check water levels of the James before attempting to swim, as this can be a dangerous area when currents are particularly strong. Learn more about recreating at Pony Pasture.
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10. Overall Run, Rileyville
The Overall Run loop passes one of the largest continuous falls in the state. There are many other smaller falls and streams that make for excellent swimming holes in Virginia. Photographed above is the sister waterfall, accessed via 697. Check out this writeup on Overall Run to help plan your visit.
11. Cascades Waterfall, Pembroke
This southwestern Virginia spot is one of the most pristine waterfall trails in the state. Seeing the Cascades is often the motivation for those who embark on this trail, especially considering it's one of the best swimming spots in Virginia. Read up on the details of this hike to Cascades Waterfall.
As we follow Little Stony Creek we'll hit the Cascades Waterfall, another Virginia swimming hole that is definitely worth checking out:
The true beauty of swimming holes in Virginia is that most of them are unnamed, just waiting to be stumbled upon by hikers and other folks enjoying a beautiful summer day. You just never know where your new favorite spot might appear. What are some of your favorite Virginia swimming holes? Let us know in the comments!
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