Swimming

Swimming Adventures

Glade Creek

You’ll usually hear about the hiking trails surrounding Glade Creek, but the swimming there is top-notch, too. After a long day of hiking in the New River Gorge National Park, Glade Creek is right there, with a photo-worthy option for relaxing at the end of the day. The best part? Listening to the sound of waterfalls in the background. This place is hard to beat if you’re looking for solitude.

Audra State Park

Audra State Park has several excellent spots for a refreshing swim, but the best location, according to the locals, is underneath the bridge just below the rapid. There is also a main swimming hole if you’re looking for company— Audra is popular with local college students and campers working on their tans.

Shupe’s Chute

Shupe’s Chute is exactly what you would expect an east coast waterfall-and-swimming-hole combo to look like. These wooded, rocky cliffs give way to a turquoise-hued, deep swimming hole that you’ll never want to leave. If you find yourself wanting a break from swimming, you’ve got the entire 8,000-acre Holly River State Park to explore, with more than 42 miles of hiking trails, plus camping or cabins if you want to spend the night.

Tygart Adventure Lake

Take splashing around to a new level, on the 25 giant inflatables of Tygart Adventure Lake. Adding extra fun to the sprawling 10-miles of water at Tygart Lake State Park, this destination is a must-visit for family fun. Spend some time in the water or enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the sandy beach—no matter your itinerary, Tygart Adventure Lake is the perfect addition.

ACE Adventure Resort

Check into a cozy cabin at ACE Adventure Resort and spend your days enjoying their Waterpark. Jump and climb on the inflatables afloat in this 5-acre spring-fed lake to truly experience summer fun. Try your hand at a flop onto the infamous BLOB, zip-line across the water or speed down 3 water slides. One thing is for sure: visitors of any age savor time spent at ACE’s Waterpark.

Lake Stephens

With 272 acres of pristine mountain water, Lake Stephens is a must-visit for those seeking a summer swim. Home to not only swimming opportunities but also fishing, boating, camping and hiking, Lake Stephens is an all-around excellent summer getaway destination. Cap off your trip with a visit to downtown Beckley, which is just 20 minutes away. Your trip will be complete with a visit to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine or a shopping spree at Tamarack.

Seneca Rocks

You don’t have to worry about any falls or rapids here. If you came in search of a swimming hole so still that you could swear it was made of actual glass, this is your spot. While Seneca Rocks is better known as a rock climbing destination, its location along the Seneca Creek tributary of the North Fork South Branch Potomac River makes it wonderful for swimming, too.

For a different kind of adrenaline rush, check out the local via ferrata, complete with a suspension bridge— as long as you’re not afraid of heights!

Pipestem Adventure Lake

Perfect for water-lovers of all ages, Pipestem Adventure Lake is a fun-in-the-sun dream. Home to a splash park, with over 15 spraying, dumping and playing features, even the littlest members of your crew can find fun. Those looking to kick things up a notch will enjoy the 12 giant inflatables dotted across the adventure lake. Spend a day by the water and then explore everything else that Pipestem Resort State Park has to offer.

Wonder Falls

How to start

Swimming in Almost Heaven can be a wonderful experience but do not forget that it comes with risks. Remember that the water is wild, and conditions are always changing. A safety tip is to bring someone with you. It is always more fun to swim with others. With a little bit of planning ahead and good decision-making, anyone can enjoy their time in the water. 

What to bring

Your gear list is always going to vary on the weather, time of year, and Almost Heaven destination. If you are traveling with friends or a local guide, it is always best to consult them on specific gear needs. However, if you’re just looking for the basics, here’s a helpful list that outlines the gear almost every adventurer needs. 

Season

Without a doubt, the best time to swim is in the heat of the summer, but don’t count out those hot fall days as well.  No matter when you decide to go, there is a swimming hole waiting to be discovered in West Virginia.