Swimming Holes in Virginia
41 natural swimming holes
Virginia has 41 natural swimming holes in our directory — waterfalls, lakes, rivers scattered from the backcountry to roadside favorites. Favorites include Devil's Bathtub, St. Mary's Falls - St. Mary's Wilderness, Whiteoak Canyon - Lower Whiteoak Falls. 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 Virginia swimming holes
- Bear Creek Lake State Park
- Belle Isle - James River Park
- Blue Hole - Dry River
- Cascade Falls - Jefferson National Forest
- Claytor Lake State Park
- Devil's Bathtub
- Douthat State Park - Douthat Lake
- Fairy Stone State Park
- Falls Ridge Preserve
- Foster Falls - New River
- Goshen Pass - Maury River
- Hone Quarry - George Washington NF
- Hungry Mother State Park
- James River State Park
- Lake Anna State Park
- Natural Chimneys Park - North River
- Pony Pasture - James River Park
- Roaring Run Falls
- Shenandoah River State Park
- Sherando Lake Recreation Area
- Smith Mountain Lake State Park
- St. Mary's Falls - St. Mary's Wilderness
- Twin Lakes State Park - Goodwin Lake
- Westmoreland State Park - Potomac River Beach
- White Rock Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway
- Whiteoak Canyon - Lower Whiteoak Falls
- Belle Isle State Park - Rappahannock River
- Bullpasture River - McDowell
- Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area
- Chippokes State Park - James River Beach
- Dark Hollow Falls - Shenandoah NP
- Falling Spring Falls
- First Landing State Park - Chesapeake Bay
- Holliday Lake State Park
- Kiptopeke State Park - Chesapeake Bay
- Overall Run Swimming Hole - Shenandoah NP
- Philpott Lake - Jamison Mill Swim Beach
- Rappahannock River - Old Mill Park
- Rose River Falls - Shenandoah NP
- Stiles Falls
- Yorktown Beach - York River
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit swimming holes in Virginia?
Most natural swimming holes in 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 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 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 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