Natural swimming hole
Lake Minnewaska
Lake · New York
About this swimming hole
Minnewaska State Park Preserve has two designated swimming beaches: a pebble-surface beach on cliff-ringed Lake Minnewaska and a rock-surface beach on Lake Awosting. Both run roughly mid-June through Labor Day; the Awosting beach requires a 3- to 5-mile hike or bike ride to reach. Park entry is $10 per vehicle and swimming is in designated areas only.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | $10 parking |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Preserve lot; fills early |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguards, picnic tables, hiking trails |
| County | Ulster County |
| Nearest town | Gardiner |
| Safety notes | Designated areas only; Awosting beach is a 3-5 mi hike/bike each way |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lake Minnewaska?
Yes — Lake Minnewaska is listed as a natural swimming spot in New York. Heads-up: Designated areas only; Awosting beach is a 3-5 mi hike/bike each way. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lake Minnewaska require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake Minnewaska based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake Minnewaska?
Reported fee info: $10 parking. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake Minnewaska?
The best season is typically June-September.