If you know even a little about West Virginia (and most of us know at least a little, if not extensively more than that!), then you likely know about Seneca Rocks. These towering spires make their dramatic reach for the sky in an iconic scene known far and wide. What's not known far and wide, though, is that one of the best swimming holes in all of West Virginia is hidden away along the North Fork South Branch Potomac River, tucked within stunning view of this iconic natural wonder.
Welcome to the Seneca Rocks Recreation Area, a beautiful park managed by the National Park Service in the Monongahela (Mon) National Forest that, once upon a time on a warm, sunny day, my family and I visited in search of adventure.
And then, we made a beeline for a magical hidden cove tucked away at the dead end of the Seneca Rocks Picnic Area where you can park a chair on the pebbled river beach and hop in the water for a swim in full view of the beautiful Seneca Rocks themselves.
This swimming hole, which is rimmed by its own sandstone cliff and features calm pools and a rope swing in addition to cool water and beautiful views, is accessible by a short trail through the woods that cuts from the last Seneca Rocks Picnic Area parking lot directly to the South Branch Potomac River.
Public Service Announcement: as you plan a visit to this hidden gem, it's a good idea to throw in some sort of footwear to don while swimming, as the rocks that line the bottom of this natural swimming area are a little tricky to navigate with just tender bare feet.
Learn more about Seneca Rocks Recreation Area on the US Forest Service website. Hungry after a day spent swimming in the shadow of the mighty Seneca Rocks? Try a meal at Harpers Old Country Store for yet another iconic experience in wild, wonderful West Virginia!
Nature is all around us here in West Virginia. And while most people opt to explore our state's breathtaking mountain scenery, you'll be just as impressed when you spend time near the water. West Virginia has plenty of wonderful lakes to choose from, but Mount Storm Lake is just a little bit different...the water stays warm all year round. So the next time you're planning a remarkable fall adventure in West Virginia, we hope you keep this special destination in mind.
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Mount Storm Lake is a 1,200-acre reservoir on the Stony River in Grant County, West Virginia.
The clear water provides a great view of the life under the surface.
Here's a video of a diver feeding catfish in the lake.
Directions: From Mt. Storm, WV where Rt. 42 intersects U.S. Rt. 50 - proceed about 4 miles on 42 South and bear right at the Liberty Gas station onto Rt. 93 towards Davis / Thomas. Continue about 3 more miles and just before the dam and powerplant, bear left onto the gravel road just opposite of the boat launch sign. Have you ever visited Mount Storm Lake in West Virginia? What did you think of your experience there? Be sure to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you!
For more history of West Virginia's lakes, take a look at the town of Gad, which once existed where Summersville Lake is now:
If you're looking for some places to go in the fall in West Virginia, here are some suggestions for you. West Virginia is one of the best places to view the changing colors of the trees each autumn, but you'll soon discover the leaves aren't the only things to check out! Here are some fall places to visit near you in West Virginia.
Each fall, water from the Summersville Dam is released into the Gauley, making it one of the best white water rivers in the country. The river drops 650 feet over 26 miles and has more than 100 major rapids. Fall is a great time to visit the Gauley River if you’re a rafter. Read all about this outfitter and get excited to book your own river adventure!
2. Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch & Cornmaze in Inwood
Check out this pumpkin patch and corn maze! Open from the end of September through October, they have an intricate corn maze on a 5-acre field and a ton of pumpkins, plus farm animals, hayrides, corn hole and more. If you are looking for things to do in West Virginia in October, this is a good choice.
This park, near Davis, is perfect for viewing the fall foliage. Learn more about this beautiful waterfall in West Virginia and why you should explore the park this fall!
Another great place to view fall's colors is Coopers Rock State Forest, near Bruceton Mills. This unusual forest is filled with plenty to see and do for the entire family!
An army of volunteers help carve thousands of pumpkins for Kenova's famous pumpkin house each year in time for Halloween. It is quite a sight to see, and about 30,000 visitors come to visit annually. Read all about this unique fall tradition and when to visit.
Another great place to see autumn's colors in the trees. The grist mill makes for beautiful pictures at this park in Cliftop. You don't want to miss a visit to this scenic park.
Fall -- and specifically Bridge Day -- is the best day to visit the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville. It's the only day of the year when it's legal to BASE jump off of it, and people come from all over to do just that, or to watch as others do. Bridge Day is typically in mid-October, and whether you plan to jump or just visit, be sure to read these unique facts about the bridge!
11. The Corn Maze at Cooper Family Farms of Milton
Get lost — in a corn maze, that is! This farm offers daytime and haunted corn maze fun every fall. You can also zip line above the maze. Find out for yourself why this is one of the best corn mazes in West Virginia!
Check out the Black Walnut Festival in Spencer this fall! The festival is held annually in mid-October. There is plenty to see and do, including a parade, carnival, food vendors, live music, art shows and more. You're going to want to make time to visit this fall festival!
Pick your own apples and pumpkins at this farm in Martinsburg. From early September to the beginning of November, you can experience all the fall fun. You can even schedule bonfire hayrides for you and all your friends! You'll be excited to learn all you can do at this charming farm market.
How many of these places to go in the fall in West Virginia have you experienced? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
West Virginia is truly a magical place when the leaves change and the air cools enough for you to break out your favorite cozy sweater. Here are some of our favorite fall destinations in WV. If you are planning a fall colors road trip, check out our guide to road trip essentials.
If you are looking for another fun fall destination in West Virginia, check out the Palace of Gold in New Vrindaban. It is a unique place full of interesting artistic expression that might just surprise you:
