Natural swimming hole
Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River
River · South Carolina
About this swimming hole
The Middle Saluda River, South Carolina's first designated scenic river, runs through Jones Gap State Park in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. The park's official Top 5 list tells visitors to take a dip in the river in summer and follow the Jones Gap Trail from swimming hole to swimming hole. The mountain-fed water is cold and clear, with pools among boulders along the trail.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Depth | Natural deep pools and wading pools in the boulder-strewn Middle Saluda River along the Jones Gap Trail |
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | $6 adults; $3.75 SC seniors (age 65+); $3.50 children age 6-15; free for ages 5 and under; $5 parking reservation when required (see parking info) |
| Reservations required | Yes |
| Hours | 9 a.m. to sunset daily; trails close one hour before dark |
| Parking | Designated lot at 303 Jones Gap Road. Parking reservations are required for guaranteed entry on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; otherwise first-come, first-served. Parking is very limited and roadside parking is not allowed |
| Amenities | restrooms, picnic tables |
| County | Greenville County |
| Nearest town | Marietta |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; very cold water year-round; slippery boulders and river current; all park trails are considered advanced; no phone service in the park; hikers must fill out a trailhead registration card |
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 Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River?
Yes — Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Carolina. Heads-up: No lifeguard; very cold water year-round; slippery boulders and river current; all park trails are considered advanced; no phone service in the park; hikers must fill out a trailhead registration card. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River require reservations?
Yes — reservations are required to visit Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River. Book ahead, especially on summer weekends.
Is there a fee to visit Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River?
Reported fee info: $6 adults; $3.75 SC seniors (age 65+); $3.50 children age 6-15; free for ages 5 and under; $5 parking reservation when required (see parking info). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Jones Gap State Park - Middle Saluda River?
The best season is typically June-September.