Make a Splash This Summer by Jumping Into Some of the Best Swimming Holes in West Virginia

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Summer is in full swing, which means the temperatures are soaring. While it’s tempting to kick back and enjoy the comforts of an air-conditioned living room, we here at Only In Your State are all about getting outside! Finding ways to beat the heat can be daunting, but this swimming hole road trip does all of the planning for you. Grab your swimsuit, jump in the car, and make a splash at some of the best swimming holes in West Virginia. 

This two-day road trip includes a place to stay for the night, so you can spend as much time as you’d like in each swimming hole without long driving times. Of course, we've also included some side quests at each stop just in case you're feeling adventurous!

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1. Blue Bend Loop Trail
HikingWest Virginia

Blue Bend is a favorite swimming hole in West Virginia for locals looking to cool down on a hot summer day. The Blue Bend Loop Trail is an awesome five-mile loop that takes you through the Monongahela National Forest and alongside Anthony Creek. The water is clear and refreshing, and the surrounding views are just perfect.

Side Quest: Lost World Caverns is about 30 minutes away, and it’s a perfect side quest for the family. The caverns were discovered in 1942, and today, visitors can descend 120 feet below the surface to explore on a self-guided tour. The cave stays a steady 52 degrees year-round, so bring a jacket!

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2. Seneca Rocks
MountainsSeneca Rocks, WV

Seneca Rocks is a popular rock climbing destination in West Virginia, but the Seneca Rocks Trail also has some excellent swimming holes. The entire 3.7-mile trail is gorgeous, and there are some truly stunning views along the way. 

Side Quest: Spruce Knob. You’ll pass by as you drive north on 28, so why not swing by? Clocking in at 4,863 feet, Spruce Knob is the highest point in the state. You can drive to the summit and then, if you’re inspired, take the Whispering Spruce Trail to the observation tower. The road to the summit is very narrow, steep, and windy, so be prepared!

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3. Douglas Falls
NatureThomas, WV

This scenic waterfall in Tucker County clocks in at around 35 feet, and she’s a beauty. The rocks here can be slippery, so make sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear. The trail to reach Douglas Falls is less than a mile long, but the road to get to it is infamous for potholes. Drive carefully!

Side Quest: Explore Blackwater Falls State Park. The Lindy Point Observation Deck has one of the prettiest views in West Virginia. 

Where to Stay

colorful adirondack chairs by a fire pit and a river during the day in buckhannon west virginia
Cabin in Buckhannon
StaysBuckhannon, WV

We’re keeping the waterfront views going with a stay at this charming cabin in Buckhannon. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin sits on the shores of the Buckhannon River, and it’s the perfect way to end the day. The cabin is about 1.5 hours from Douglas Falls, but it puts you in a perfect spot to enjoy day two of this adventure. Guests can swim in the river or get a campfire going and enjoy a nice evening roasting marshmallows by the fire.

The cabin is just 3 miles from Audra State Park, so you can sleep in on day two!

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4. Audra State Park
National & State ParksAudra, WV

Nothing beats a day spent exploring Audra State Park. While you’re here, you’ve got to check out the Alum Cave Trail; it’s one of the most beautiful hiking trails in West Virginia! There is a designated swimming area at Audra State Park that’s the perfect way to cool off after a long hike. The views are fabulous, it's not too deep, and the water's crisp temperature is the perfect way to cool down during summer. Make a mental note to come back and see this state park again in the fall; you won’t be disappointed.  

Side Quest: The Alum Cave Trail. We just told you why!

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5. Tygart Lake State Park
Hotels & ResortsWest Virginia

I love how the lake reflects those beautiful blue colors on a clear day. The Tygart Adventure Lake is the ultimate aquatic adventure that the entire family will enjoy, and we think it's the perfect final stop along this swimming hole road trip. There are 25 inflatables on the lake, too, plus a beachside lounge area. All ages are welcome! This is one swimming hole in West Virginia where you could easily spend the entire day, so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this place!

Side Quest: Head over to Grafton (about 10 minutes north) and enjoy a meal at Leonard’s Grill. From the loaded cheese fries to the two-hand sandwiches and old-fashioned milkshakes, this family-friendly joint hits the spot after a long day on the water.

Planning on taking this West Virginia swimming hole road trip this summer? Let us know! Share this article with someone you want to make a splash with this summer. For more summertime fun, check out some of our favorite hiking trails in West Virginia.

Photo credits (from top to bottom): Internal Photos/AllTrails, Emma Price/AllTrails, Stephanie Osborn/AllTrails, Airbnb, Leop Eilinger/AllTrails, Leigh Ann/AllTrails

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