Swimming Holes in Maryland
27 natural swimming holes
Maryland has 27 natural swimming holes in our directory — ocean coves, lakes, rivers scattered from the backcountry to roadside favorites. Favorites include Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch), Swallow Falls State Park — Youghiogheny River, Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake. 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 Maryland swimming holes
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Cunningham Falls State Park — Hunting Creek Lake
- Deep Creek Lake State Park — Swim Beach
- Deer Creek (Susquehanna State Park)
- Elk Neck State Park — Chesapeake Bay Beach
- Greenbrier State Park — Greenbrier Lake
- Gunpowder Falls State Park — Hammerman Area
- Herrington Manor State Park — Herrington Lake
- Kilgore Falls (Falling Branch)
- Lake Habeeb (Rocky Gap State Park)
- New Germany State Park — New Germany Lake
- Patapsco Valley State Park — Avalon / Orange Grove
- Pot Rocks
- Sandy Point State Park — Chesapeake Bay Beach
- Swallow Falls State Park — Youghiogheny River
- Betterton Beach
- Calvert Cliffs State Park — Bay Beach
- Camp Harding Park — Licking Creek
- Cascade Falls (Patapsco Valley State Park)
- Ferry Park Beach
- Fifteen Mile Creek (Green Ridge State Forest)
- Janes Island State Park — Tangier Sound Beach
- Point Lookout State Park — Bay Beach
- Poolesville Swimming Hole (Seneca Creek)
- Savage River Reservoir (Big Run State Park)
- Sykesville Patapsco River Swimming Hole
- Terrapin Beach Park
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit swimming holes in Maryland?
Most natural swimming holes in Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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 Maryland 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