The best swimming holes in West Virginia are all clustered in relatively the same area. Many are located in state parks, while a couple linger along rivers and can be accessed by parking on the side of the road. This is not a complete list of swimming holes in West Virginia, but rather, just a list of some of the better ones I came across when I visited West Virginia in the summer of 2008.
1. Blue Hole
The name Blue Hole is a very common name for a swimming hole. In my experience, swimming areas that are named after a color are typically good. And this one if no different. A lovely spot near Cooper’s Rock State Park, Blue Hole is oddly reminiscent of places along the Saco River in New Hampshire. There is a small sandy beach on one side of the Cheat River, while across the water, you have large slabs of rock. The only downside to this swimming hole is the rocks have a thick covering of mud and moss. If you’re squeamish, you may opt not to walk across the rocks. This swimming hole is very popular with the local college kids and does have a bit of trash. However, it’s not so bad that it ruins the scenic area. The trash tends to stay in little clusters in the woods where the kids party. There is a bridge over the river that some locals jump from. However, I was told that there has been fatalities because of there are hidden rocks below the bridge. As always be sure to check the water before you jump in. The area is also great for children. As I mentioned, there is a small sandy beach and a gentle slope at the rivers edge. A couple of small ledges dot the edge of the river and make for good jumping areas for younger kids. The day I went there was very little current. Blue Hole is a good spot to spend the entire day. There are plenty of areas to explore.
2. Whitaker Falls
Whitaker Falls is one of those swimming holes that could be on the cover of a book or magazine. It’s not an over dramatic swimming hole with plunging water and enormous side walls. But it’s simple small features make it beautiful. Whitaker Falls is part of the Elk River in central West Virginia. This swimming area is large, with plenty of fun for children and adults of all ages. Coming down through the trees, the view opens up and you see a large emerald green pool of water. Your first instinct will be to run and jump in. But be careful, the slope can be slippery. There is a small falls that pools into the swimming hole, and the ledges are big enough to jump off of. Additionally, you can swim beneath the falls without fear of getting caught in an undertow. Whitaker Falls is also good for lap swimming, as the area is several feet in width. Another fun thing to do here is to actually swim behind the falls. There is a rock lip that you can sit on if you can make it behind the falls. Whitaker Falls is a world class swimming hole and fun for the entire family.
3. Bergoo Hole
Just about 3 miles from Whitaker Falls is Bergoo Hole. Still part of Elk River, Bergoo Hole is a classic area for teenagers and young adult. Not particularly scenic, but an old railroad bridge crosses the Elk River, making for a large jump. On the day I visited this swimming hole, there were a crowd of teenagers who took to the air, jumping into the wide expanse of water below. Very confident that the area is deep enough for the jump. Many of the visitors were doing flips and twirls. The atmosphere is exciting and youthful. Adults are accepted into the crowd, but are urged to be just as creative with their dives into the water. I am unsure whether it is legal or not to jump from the bridge, but nobody gave the impression that it was. I do not recommend this West Virginia swimming hole for families with small children. It’s a more mature atmosphere with a lot of jumping. Although I am sure you could go up river and swim, the language can be course and loud at times. If you’re looking for family swimming, there are better places than Bergoo Hole.
4. Brush Creek Falls
The Brush Creek Falls swimming hole in West Virginia is located in the Camp Creek State Forest. This swimming area is large and inviting to families. It has a big waterfall that leaps off the rock into the expansive pool of water below. Great for some high adrenaline rock jumping. The falls can get high and the current strong, so be careful when jumping. The water will knock you over the falls if the current is too strong. And that could result in serious injury. There is plenty of room for several families, and many visitors are from the nearby campground. The water is slightly murky. I liken it to pond water. No pollution was noticed and the water was fresh. The swimming hole did have rare sightings of small fish, but nothing that will bother going near you. There is the potential for rocks to be swept over the falls, so playing directly underneath the water is not recommended. This West Virginia swimming hole is great for large or small families.
5. Glade Creek
There are several spots in the Glade Creek area that are suitable for swimming. This swimming hole that I am referring to is located on the upper section of Glade Creek. The area is surrounded by large evergreen and a small stone wall. No other noticeable landmarks, but you’ll know it when you see it. In contrast to other swimming holes here, this West Virginia swimming hole doesn’t offer much more than a small jump and a fairly limited wading area. But that is what I like most about this area. It’s very private and perfect for a couple to have some alone time in the wilderness. The water current is mild and the wildlife around does give off a feeling of seclusion. A very romantic swimming hole if you can find it.
The best swimming holes is West Virginia were all located in the central part of the state. I only stayed in West Virginia for a handful of days, but I was very happy with the areas I found. There are several more swimming holes in West Virginia that I plan on visiting in the future. I hope you will visit some of these swimming holes too.
