Swimming Holes in West Virginia
22 natural swimming holes
West Virginia has 22 natural swimming holes in our directory — waterfalls, lakes, creeks scattered from the backcountry to roadside favorites. Favorites include Blue Hole - Big Sandy Creek, Wonder Falls - Coopers Rock, Red Creek - Dolly Sods Wilderness. Every listing includes location details, fees, reservation info, and safety notes where known. Conditions change with weather and seasons, so always verify before you go.
All West Virginia swimming holes
- Blue Hole - Big Sandy Creek
- Glade Creek - Babcock State Park
- Holly River State Park - Left Fork Falls
- Red Creek - Dolly Sods Wilderness
- Summersville Lake
- Wonder Falls - Coopers Rock
- Audra State Park - Middle Fork River
- Beechy Run Falls - Cranberry Wilderness
- Bluestone State Park - Bluestone Lake
- Burnsville Lake
- Cathedral Falls - New River Gorge
- Diamond Falls - Dolly Sods
- Douglas Falls - Blackwater Canyon
- Falls of Hills Creek
- Mill Creek Falls - Kumbrabow State Forest
- Otter Creek Wilderness
- Seneca Creek Falls
- Seneca Rocks - North Fork River
- Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park
- Sutton Lake
- Tygart Lake State Park
- Valley Falls State Park
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit swimming holes in West Virginia?
Most natural swimming holes in West Virginia are at their best from late spring through early fall, when water levels are safe and temperatures are comfortable. Spring runoff can make rivers and creeks dangerously high — check local conditions.
Do West Virginia swimming holes require reservations?
Some do — popular spots increasingly use timed entry or day-use permits. Check each listing's reservation field and the official park link before you go.
Are swimming holes in West Virginia free?
Many are free, but state parks and popular preserves often charge a day-use or parking fee. Each listing shows reported fee info where known.
Are natural swimming holes in West Virginia safe?
Natural water has real risks: no lifeguards, submerged rocks, strong currents, and cold water. Never dive headfirst, check depth, and supervise children closely.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026