If you’ve had your fill of swimming pools and the beach and you’re craving something a bit more relaxing and refreshing, what you need is a good ol’ fashioned swimming hole. Pardon me, that’s “swimmin’ hole.” These are the places that you go to cool down after a hike, to dip your feet on a hot day or just to be where, maybe, no one else will be. Virginia has dozens, and we mean dozens, of these places. Here are 12 of our favorite swimming holes in Virginia.
- Cascade Falls, Pembroke
Merritt Boyd / flickr Cascade Falls might just be one of the most beautiful swimming holes in Virginia. This destination is understandably popular among hikers, photographers, and fellow swimmers, so be sure to plan your trip at a time that will naturally be less busy such as the weekdays or early mornings.
- Belle Isle, Richmond
globaltrekster / TripAdvisor This portion of the mighty James River is one of the most iconic swimming holes in Virginia. On a hot summer’s day, there are few places more refreshing for a swim. It’s also common to see Richmonders sunbathing on the massive rocks. Nearby, you’ll also find opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and biking.
- White Oak Canyon Trail, Syria
Karen Blaha / flickr White Oak Canyon Falls is one of Shenandoah’s many crown jewels. Not only is this waterfall picturesque, but it also happens to be an ideal place to take a dip. The falls are accessible via a 1.5-mile hike. There are actually several swimming holes along this trail, so pick the one that speaks to you!
- Big Falls on Cedar River, Russell County
DM / flickr Those who aren’t discouraged by a 3.9-mile trek near the Clinch River will be rewarded with access to Big Falls and its swimming hole. From the swinging bridge to the falls itself, this destination lends itself to all kinds of unique scenery.
- Falls of Dismal, Bland
vastateparksstaff / flickr Despite its name, Dismal Falls is anything but. The 40-foot waterfall plunges into one of the most scenic swimming holes in Virginia. Whether you crave a relaxing spot in the shade of the forest canopy or a brisk dip in the water, you’ll feel totally refreshed by your visit.
- Devil’s Bathtub, Fort Blackmore
Corrina Beall / flickr Devil’s Bathtub has become increasingly popular among those who have seen photographs of its emerald blue water. This naturally-smooth and inviting swimming hole also requires a strenuous hike, so be sure to be prepared before embarking on your adventure. Rest assured, the experience will be well worth your effort.
- Nottoway Falls, Victoria
Nottoway Falls / Facebook The Nottoway Falls is a hidden gem located on the Nottoway Falls Reservoir in Lunenburg County, Virginia. While the falls are technically manmade, the water is perfect for taking a dip. Plus, some visitors note that it’s a lot of fun to slide down the smooth rocks you’ll find here.
- Goshen Pass, Lexington (Rockbridge County)
Ron Mexico / TripAdvisor Goshen Pass is renowned for its fishing and hiking opportunities. Yet just as many folks flock to this beautiful stretch of the river to cool off. There are a number of access points from the road which parallels the water, Route 39.
- Pony Pasture, Richmond
7Whitwall / TripAdvisor The Pony Pasture Rapids are one of the most scenic outdoor destinations in the Richmond area. Similar to Belle Isle, this stretch of the James River is popular among swimmers, kayakers, and sunbathers alike.
- Blue Hole on the Dry River, Rawley Springs
red, white and black eyes / flickr One of the more remote swimming holes in Virginia, the Rawley Springs Blue Hole is somewhat difficult to access. There’s no official parking lot, so many visitors opt to park on the shoulder of Route 33. Follow the worn path and you’ll find yourself at this hidden gem of a swimming spot.
- Dunlap Creek at Humpback Bridge, Covington
Don O’Brien / flickr While many people have heard of the historic Humpback Bridge in Covington, Virginia, fewer people realize it’s also a fantastic swimming spot. Dunlap Creek flows under the bridge and visitors enjoy cooling off in its refreshing water.
- Whitetop Laurel Creek along the Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus
via Virginia Creeper Trail Entering the trail from route 58 in Damascus, swimmers will delight in this brisk but refreshing swimming hole along Whitetop Laurel Creek. Whether your hike to it or bike to it, you’ll be grateful for this refreshing lagoon.
Given the number of swimming holes in Virginia, we know this is only a partial list. So, tell us about the places you love to visit. Maybe it’s a place you grew up going to or maybe it’s a hideaway you discovered on a hike. Give us the rundown in the comments below!
Merritt Boyd / flickr
Cascade Falls might just be one of the most beautiful swimming holes in Virginia. This destination is understandably popular among hikers, photographers, and fellow swimmers, so be sure to plan your trip at a time that will naturally be less busy such as the weekdays or early mornings.
globaltrekster / TripAdvisor
This portion of the mighty James River is one of the most iconic swimming holes in Virginia. On a hot summer’s day, there are few places more refreshing for a swim. It’s also common to see Richmonders sunbathing on the massive rocks. Nearby, you’ll also find opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and biking.
Karen Blaha / flickr
White Oak Canyon Falls is one of Shenandoah’s many crown jewels. Not only is this waterfall picturesque, but it also happens to be an ideal place to take a dip. The falls are accessible via a 1.5-mile hike. There are actually several swimming holes along this trail, so pick the one that speaks to you!
DM / flickr
Those who aren’t discouraged by a 3.9-mile trek near the Clinch River will be rewarded with access to Big Falls and its swimming hole. From the swinging bridge to the falls itself, this destination lends itself to all kinds of unique scenery.
vastateparksstaff / flickr
Despite its name, Dismal Falls is anything but. The 40-foot waterfall plunges into one of the most scenic swimming holes in Virginia. Whether you crave a relaxing spot in the shade of the forest canopy or a brisk dip in the water, you’ll feel totally refreshed by your visit.
Corrina Beall / flickr
Devil’s Bathtub has become increasingly popular among those who have seen photographs of its emerald blue water. This naturally-smooth and inviting swimming hole also requires a strenuous hike, so be sure to be prepared before embarking on your adventure. Rest assured, the experience will be well worth your effort.
Nottoway Falls / Facebook
The Nottoway Falls is a hidden gem located on the Nottoway Falls Reservoir in Lunenburg County, Virginia. While the falls are technically manmade, the water is perfect for taking a dip. Plus, some visitors note that it’s a lot of fun to slide down the smooth rocks you’ll find here.
Ron Mexico / TripAdvisor
Goshen Pass is renowned for its fishing and hiking opportunities. Yet just as many folks flock to this beautiful stretch of the river to cool off. There are a number of access points from the road which parallels the water, Route 39.
7Whitwall / TripAdvisor
The Pony Pasture Rapids are one of the most scenic outdoor destinations in the Richmond area. Similar to Belle Isle, this stretch of the James River is popular among swimmers, kayakers, and sunbathers alike.
red, white and black eyes / flickr
One of the more remote swimming holes in Virginia, the Rawley Springs Blue Hole is somewhat difficult to access. There’s no official parking lot, so many visitors opt to park on the shoulder of Route 33. Follow the worn path and you’ll find yourself at this hidden gem of a swimming spot.
Don O’Brien / flickr
While many people have heard of the historic Humpback Bridge in Covington, Virginia, fewer people realize it’s also a fantastic swimming spot. Dunlap Creek flows under the bridge and visitors enjoy cooling off in its refreshing water.
via Virginia Creeper Trail
Entering the trail from route 58 in Damascus, swimmers will delight in this brisk but refreshing swimming hole along Whitetop Laurel Creek. Whether your hike to it or bike to it, you’ll be grateful for this refreshing lagoon.
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Address: Cascade Falls Trailhead, 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136, USAAddress: Belle Isle, Richmond, VA, USAAddress: 187 Chad Berry Ln, Syria, VA 22743, USAAddress: Big Cedar Creek, Lebanon, VA 24260, USAAddress: Falls of Dismal, Virginia 24134, USAAddress: Devil’s Bathtub, Devils Fork Loop Trail, Duffield, VA 24244, USAAddress: Nottoway Falls Reservoir, Meherrin River, VA 23974, USAAddress: Goshen Pass, Virginia 24473, USAAddress: 7310 Riverside Dr, Richmond, VA 23225, USAAddress: New River Trail State Park, Virginia, USAAddress: Rawley Springs, VA 22831, USAAddress: 9211 Rumsey Rd, Covington, VA 24426, USAAddress: Whitetop Laurel Creek, Virginia, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Swimming Holes in Virginia June 07, 2020 Beth C. Are there any good swimming holes in Virginia? As you can tell by our list of swimming holes in Virginia, the Old Dominion has dozens upon dozens of refreshing places to cool off. Whether you prefer hiking to a forested swimming hole or taking a dip at the base of a waterfall, there’s bound to be a swimming spot for you to enjoy. Some of the most popular swimming holes in Virginia include Dismal Falls, Cascade Falls, and Belle Isle. When preparing to visit a swimming hole, be sure to pack plenty of water, dry clothes, appropriate footwear, and don’t forget to take with you everything you bring. What are the best beaches in Virginia? When considering the best beaches in Virginia, most people naturally think of Virginia Beach first. However, there are countless other incredible beaches in Virginia worth visiting. Some of the most popular beaches include Sandbridge Beach, Colonial Beach, Assateague Island National Seashore, Cape Charles Beach, and Buckroe Beach. Note that not all of Virginia’s beaches have public facilities, so be sure to plan accordingly. What are the most beautiful lakes in Virginia? Virginia has an impressive variety of lakes, from manmade reservoirs to natural mountain lakes just waiting to be discovered. One of the most beautiful – and underrated – lakes in Virginia is Hidden Valley Lake. Located just outside of Abingdon, Virginia, this breathtaking natural wonder can be accessed via a 4.5-mile trail. Rest assured that your hiking efforts will be rewarded with the beautiful scenery of this mountain lake. Visitors note that the hiking trail is well-marked but very narrow.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Swimming Holes in Virginia
June 07, 2020
Beth C.
Are there any good swimming holes in Virginia? As you can tell by our list of swimming holes in Virginia, the Old Dominion has dozens upon dozens of refreshing places to cool off. Whether you prefer hiking to a forested swimming hole or taking a dip at the base of a waterfall, there’s bound to be a swimming spot for you to enjoy. Some of the most popular swimming holes in Virginia include Dismal Falls, Cascade Falls, and Belle Isle. When preparing to visit a swimming hole, be sure to pack plenty of water, dry clothes, appropriate footwear, and don’t forget to take with you everything you bring. What are the best beaches in Virginia? When considering the best beaches in Virginia, most people naturally think of Virginia Beach first. However, there are countless other incredible beaches in Virginia worth visiting. Some of the most popular beaches include Sandbridge Beach, Colonial Beach, Assateague Island National Seashore, Cape Charles Beach, and Buckroe Beach. Note that not all of Virginia’s beaches have public facilities, so be sure to plan accordingly. What are the most beautiful lakes in Virginia? Virginia has an impressive variety of lakes, from manmade reservoirs to natural mountain lakes just waiting to be discovered. One of the most beautiful – and underrated – lakes in Virginia is Hidden Valley Lake. Located just outside of Abingdon, Virginia, this breathtaking natural wonder can be accessed via a 4.5-mile trail. Rest assured that your hiking efforts will be rewarded with the beautiful scenery of this mountain lake. Visitors note that the hiking trail is well-marked but very narrow.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
As you can tell by our list of swimming holes in Virginia, the Old Dominion has dozens upon dozens of refreshing places to cool off. Whether you prefer hiking to a forested swimming hole or taking a dip at the base of a waterfall, there’s bound to be a swimming spot for you to enjoy. Some of the most popular swimming holes in Virginia include Dismal Falls, Cascade Falls, and Belle Isle. When preparing to visit a swimming hole, be sure to pack plenty of water, dry clothes, appropriate footwear, and don’t forget to take with you everything you bring.
What are the best beaches in Virginia?
When considering the best beaches in Virginia, most people naturally think of Virginia Beach first. However, there are countless other incredible beaches in Virginia worth visiting. Some of the most popular beaches include Sandbridge Beach, Colonial Beach, Assateague Island National Seashore, Cape Charles Beach, and Buckroe Beach. Note that not all of Virginia’s beaches have public facilities, so be sure to plan accordingly.
What are the most beautiful lakes in Virginia?
Virginia has an impressive variety of lakes, from manmade reservoirs to natural mountain lakes just waiting to be discovered. One of the most beautiful – and underrated – lakes in Virginia is Hidden Valley Lake. Located just outside of Abingdon, Virginia, this breathtaking natural wonder can be accessed via a 4.5-mile trail. Rest assured that your hiking efforts will be rewarded with the beautiful scenery of this mountain lake. Visitors note that the hiking trail is well-marked but very narrow.
