If you’ve had your fill of swimming pools and the beach and you’re craving something a bit more relaxing and refreshing, what you need is a good ol’ fashioned swimming hole. Pardon me, that’s “swimmin’ hole.” These are the places that you go to cool down after a hike, to dip your feet on a hot day or just to be where, maybe, no one else will be. Virginia has dozens, and we mean dozens, of these places. Here are 12 of the best swimming holes in Virginia.

1. Cascade Falls, Pembroke
Cascade Falls Trailhead, 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136, USA
Merritt Boyd / flickr
Cascade Falls might just be one of the most beautiful swimming holes in Virginia. This destination is understandably popular among hikers, photographers, and fellow swimmers, so be sure to plan your trip at a time that will naturally be less busy such as the weekdays or early mornings.

2. Belle Isle, Richmond
Belle Isle, Richmond, VA, USA
globaltrekster / TripAdvisor
This portion of the mighty James River is one of the most iconic swimming holes in Virginia. On a hot summer's day, there are few places more refreshing for a swim. It's also common to see Richmonders sunbathing on the massive rocks. Nearby, you'll also find opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and biking.

3. White Oak Canyon Trail, Syria
187 Chad Berry Ln, Syria, VA 22743, USA
Karen Blaha / flickr
White Oak Canyon Falls is one of Shenandoah's many crown jewels. Not only is this waterfall picturesque, but it also happens to be an ideal place to take a dip. The falls are accessible via a 1.5-mile hike. There are actually several swimming holes in Virginia along this trail, so pick the one that speaks to you!
4. Big Falls on Cedar River, Russell County
Big Cedar Creek, Virginia 24260, USA
DM / flickr
Those who aren't discouraged by a 3.9-mile trek near the Clinch River will be rewarded with access to Big Falls and its swimming hole. From the swinging bridge to the falls itself, this destination lends itself to all kinds of unique scenery and is one of the prettiest places to swim in Virginia.
5. Falls of Dismal, Bland
Falls of Dismal, Virginia 24134, USA
vastateparksstaff / flickr
Despite its name, Dismal Falls is anything but. The 40-foot waterfall plunges into one of the most scenic swimming holes in Virginia. Whether you crave a relaxing spot in the shade of the forest canopy or a brisk dip in the water, you'll feel totally refreshed by your visit.
6. Devil's Bathtub, Fort Blackmore
Devil's Bathtub, Devils Fork Loop Trail, Duffield, VA 24244, USA
Corrina Beall / flickr
Devil's Bathtub has become increasingly popular among those who have seen photographs of its emerald blue water. This naturally-smooth and inviting swimming hole also requires a strenuous hike, so be sure to be prepared before embarking on your adventure. Rest assured, the experience will be well worth your effort.

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7. Nottoway Falls, Victoria
Nottoway Falls Reservoir, Virginia 23974, USA
Byrian Coughenour/Google Local
The Nottoway Falls is a hidden gem located on the Nottoway Falls Reservoir in Lunenburg County, Virginia. While the falls are technically manmade, the water is perfect for taking a dip. Plus, some visitors note that it's a lot of fun to slide down the smooth rocks you'll find here. It's one of the best places to swim in Virginia.
8. Goshen Pass, Lexington (Rockbridge County)
Goshen Pass, Virginia 24473, USA
Ron Mexico / TripAdvisor
Goshen Pass is renowned for its fishing and hiking opportunities. Yet just as many folks flock to this beautiful stretch of the river to cool off. There are a number of access points from the road which parallels the water, Route 39.

9. Pony Pasture, Richmond
7310 Riverside Dr, Richmond, VA 23225, USA
7Whitwall / TripAdvisor
The Pony Pasture Rapids are one of the most scenic outdoor destinations in the Richmond area. Similar to Belle Isle, this stretch of the James River is popular among swimmers, kayakers, and sunbathers alike. It's one of the most beautiful Virginia swimming holes.
10. Blue Hole on the Dry River, Rawley Springs
New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr, Max Meadows, VA 24360, USA
red, white and black eyes / flickr
One of the more remote swimming holes in Virginia, the Rawley Springs Blue Hole is somewhat difficult to access. There's no official parking lot, so many visitors opt to park on the shoulder of Route 33. Follow the worn path and you'll find yourself at this hidden gem of a swimming spot.
11. Dunlap Creek at Humpback Bridge, Covington
Rawley Springs, VA 22831, USA
9211 Rumsey Rd, Covington, VA 24426, USA
Don O'Brien / flickr
While many people have heard of the historic Humpback Bridge in Covington, Virginia, fewer people realize it's also a fantastic swimming spot. Dunlap Creek flows under the bridge and visitors enjoy cooling off in its refreshing water.
12. Whitetop Laurel Creek along the Virginia Creeper Trail, Damascus
Whitetop Laurel Creek, Virginia, USA
Mary Hayes/AllTrails
Entering the trail from route 58 in Damascus, swimmers will delight in this brisk but refreshing swimming hole along Whitetop Laurel Creek. Whether your hike to it or bike to it, you'll be grateful for this refreshing lagoon, one of the best swimming holes in Virginia.

Given the number of swimming holes in the state, we know this is only a partial list of the best swimming holes in Virginia. So, tell us about the places you love to visit. Maybe it’s a place you grew up going to or maybe it’s a hideaway you discovered on a hike. Give us the rundown in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Swimming Holes in Virginia

Beth C. | June 07, 2020

Are there any good swimming holes in Virginia?

Yes, there are many good swimming holes in Virginia. Among the most popular are the following:

  • Dismal Falls
  • Cascade Falls
  • Belle Isle.

 

When preparing to visit a swimming hole, be sure to pack plenty of water, dry clothes, and appropriate footwear, and don't forget to take with you everything you bring.

What are the best beaches in Virginia?

Among the best beaches in Virginia are the following:

  • Sandbridge Beach
  • Colonial Beach
  • Assateague Island National Seashore
  • Cape Charles Beach, and Buckroe Beach

 

Note that not all of Virginia's beaches have public facilities, so be sure to plan accordingly.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Virginia?

Virginia has an impressive variety of lakes, from manmade reservoirs to natural mountain lakes just waiting to be discovered. One of the most beautiful -- and underrated -- lakes in Virginia is Hidden Valley Lake. Located just outside of Abingdon, Virginia, this breathtaking natural wonder can be accessed via a 4.5-mile trail. Rest assured that your hiking efforts will be rewarded with the beautiful scenery of this mountain lake. Visitors note that the hiking trail is well-marked but very narrow.

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