5 Waterfall Swimming Holes in Pennsylvania That Are Ideal for a Summer Adventure

Staying cool in Pennsylvania during a simmering summer isn't really that difficult. Sure, you can spend those humidity-dripping, sweltering days stuck indoors with the air on full blast. Or, you can head to one of the many community swimming pools, waterparks, or Pennsylvania swimming holes with waterfalls. These gorgeous swimming holes can get pretty crowded on the weekends, so our tip to avoid the crowds is to visit these waterfall swimming holes early in the morning or on the weekends. Who knows, you may luck out and have the place all to yourself!

1. Rock Fall, Slippery Rock

Spend a leisurely day at Rock Falls in Slippery Rock. Sunbathe on the rocks then cool off by slipping into the cool swimming hole at Rock Falls. The swimming spot into which the waterfall spills is fairly shallow, making it an idyllic spot for wading. Find the official website of Rock Falls Park.

Take a look at this short video by @buddur2277:

2. Salt Springs State Park, Montrose

Walk along fern floors when you visit Salt Springs State Park, a sprawling park that boasts plenty of hiking trails, picnicking, and waterfalls, including a quaint swimming hole at the end of a small waterfall. For more information, check out the official website of Salt Springs State Park.

3. Cucumber Falls, Ohiopyle

Walk behind the spectacular 30-foot Cucumber Falls at Ohiopyle State Park, where you'll stay cool as the mist sprays you. While you can't swim at Cucumber Falls, you can dip your feet in the water and enjoy the mist from the waterfall. You can also slip and slide down the Meadow Run Natural Water Slide at Ohiopyle State Park. Find the official website for Ohiopyle State Park.

Take a look at this short video by @zoelovelace:

4. Seven Tubs Recreation Area, Pinchot State Forest

Seven Tubs Recreation Area in the Pinchot State Forest offers several enchanting hiking trails that will take you to some refreshing swimming spots. It can get crowded on the weekends, so try to visit this spot during the week to avoid the crowds. Find it via the Audubon Loop Trail. The two-mile loop trail has plenty of spots to splash in the water.

5. Sand Run Falls, Tioga State Forest

Big Falls in Tioga State Forest is certainly one of the most popular waterfall swimming holes in Pennsylvania, but Sand Run Falls is a hidden gem. You can reach it via a 1.3-mile out-and-back hike that’s fairly easy to navigate, and your efforts will be rewarded with a refreshing soak in the water.

What are your favorite Pennsylvania swimming holes with waterfalls? Personally, I can't choose but be sure to let us know your favorites in the comments. It's always a good idea to have some waterproof shoes or watershoes when swimming in natural swimming areas. I personally use my Tevas, but there are plenty of brands to choose from!

Ready for more aquatic adventures? Check out some of our favorite swimming holes in Pennsylvania. These swimming holes have all the natural elements you crave, just no waterfalls.