North Carolina has so many beautiful swimming holes to explore. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a more secluded one, there's something for everyone. Summer is the perfect time to take a dip in the cool waters of these natural pools and waterfalls. Just remember to practice safe swimming habits and be aware of your surroundings. Happy exploring!
Most of these are in western North Carolina, so take several days and explore them all in the western part of the state. I have a few to the east, but only 2 in the far east and 2 in the middle of the state. It's just that the western part of the state with the mountains creates more swimming holes surrounded by beauty. Some of these are not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway, but wherever you are in the state any of these swimming holes are a great way to beat the summer heat.
Best Swimming Holes in North Carolina
Schoolhouse Falls- Panthertown Valley- This is a beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole at the base, located in the Nantahala National Forest. It's less than 3 miles hike down, with an easily marked trail, but to get better access to the waterfall you have to go off trail. But just a warning the hike back up can be a little tough.
Deep Creek- Bryson City- Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this family-friendly swimming hole is a summer favorite. There is a $5 parking fee for the parking lot, and it is not too far of a walk up the trail to the falls and swimming hole. You can also do more hiking while there. There are several waterfalls in the area to look at. There are also tubing opportunities if you would like to rent and float for a mile nearby. Perfect for a hot summer day.
I suggest if you are visiting the Cherokee area of North Carolina that you drive south to Bryson City and check out this swimming hole. If you are staying on the Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains it would be perfect for a day trip, but it will take you some time to drive this far away from Gatlinburg TN or Pigeon Forge TN.
Hooker Falls -DuPont State Forest near Brevard- If you're looking for a spacious swimming hole with a natural pool, Hooker Falls is a great choice. Grab a tube and float along! A great spot that is only a .3-mile hike. But one thing I like about this place, contact DuPont State Forest directly ahead of time and they can help you if you have disabilities, so you can still see the falls or swim. Check out the other waterfalls in this area and you can also swim nearby. The State Park has picnic tables in the picnic area.
There is nothing better than to float in the Little River on a tube. The waterfalls keep the water moving, but it is not rough. I would call it the perfect lazy river.
Turtleback Falls - Toxaway- This Pisgah National Forest swimming hole is about a 3-mile hike from Gorges State Park and is a quintessential North Carolina spot. If you use the natural slide be careful and make sure that water levels are not too high. This has a 20 foot drop into the pool below if you slide.
Bust Your Butt Falls - Highlands- Despite its name, Bust Your Butt Falls is a tranquil swimming hole with clear waters that's perfect for a refreshing dip. Also known as Drift Falls, or Driftwood Falls. Located on private property and close to the road. Sometimes this swimming hole causes traffic jams on route 64. Always be careful with young children when swimming.
Midnight Hole -Big Creek- Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this swimming hole is a hidden gem that's worth seeking out. The hike is 2.8 miles roundtrip and considered moderate, but well worth it to see the beautiful clear water. This has a small hole, but usually not near as crowded as other swimming holes in the area.
Sliding Rock- Brevard- This natural water slide in Pisgah National Forest offers a unique swimming experience that's fun for all ages. The pool is about 8 feet deep in the middle and does have a river current so be careful. If you do the slide you should wear a life vest if you cannot swim properly. There is a $5 charge to swim, and it is a popular destination.
There are many swimming holes in Bevard, or near Brevard in the Pisgah National Forest. You should check them all out, so stay in the area for a long weekend and explore. There is so much to see and do in the surrounding area beyond swimming in swimming holes. Hendersonville NC is under 30 minutes away from Brevard, and Asheville is under 45 minutes away from Brevard. Visit the Biltmore Estate, or even drive over to Chimney Rock. The outdoor adventures in the area are over the top.
Skinny Dip Falls - Brevard- Not far from Sliding Rock by the way the birds fly but driving there from Sliding Rock will take a lot longer. Still located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with crazy mountain roads. This is a popular swimming hole with small but beautiful waterfalls. Located about a 10-minute hike downhill. You can tell it's a trail but still be careful.
Elk River Falls - Elk River- Located at almost the Tennessee border, this waterfall in Avery County provides a scenic backdrop for swimmers looking to cool off on a hot day. Hiking to the falls is not too terrible at .06 roundtrip. A perfect place for a cool dip before Labor Day, when summer humidity is still around.
This area holds a special place in my heart as I visited and swam in this swimming hole many years ago. I traveled here from Johnson City TN, and it took just an hour to get there. But if you are near Boone NC, it will take you about 50 minutes to get there. Perfect for those in college at Appalachian State University in Boone NC. If in this area, near Boone, visit Grandfather Mountain, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain or even the Tweetsie Railroad.
Pettigrew State Park - Creswell- The park features Lake Phelps where you can take a dip and enjoy the natural surroundings. Located in the Eastern part of the state, and pretty close to the ocean you may be surprised that the lake doesn't have any alligators, but they have never been spotted here. A local favorite.
Carrigan Farms- Mooresville- Swim in an actual quarry. This 5th generation owned farm is a neat place to check out near Charlotte NC, you should check out their website and book in advance to go swimming here. Since this is less than an hour away from Charlotte it tends to fill up quick during the peak season.
There is a small admission fee but trust me it is so worth it. The farm area itself is also wonderful, you can even book events and weddings here. There is even a lifeguard on staff, so it tends to be safer than others on this list.
I have visited this place, and it is absolutely amazing. The water is a perfect color, surrounded by the cliffs all around. It truly is a neat experience, and a great swimming hole.
Jones Lake State Park - Elizabethtown- Only about 40 minutes away from Fayetteville NC, this state park has a lot to offer. This is a great place with beaches by the swimming hole which is actually a lake and there is some great history that goes along with this place. Go Kayaking, swimming or whatever you want here.
I have never traveled to Jones Lake State Park but have friends and family that have spent time on the lake here. In my opinion though, if I was in Fayetteville NC I would drive a little further and visit a beach for the day, as Fayetteville is only 2 hours away from Carolina Beach in NC or Myrtle Beach SC.
Shacktown Falls - Yadkinville- Features a waterfall and a swimming hole. Easy hike to the falls area and can be crowded at times. Extremely close to the parking area. I have stopped by here once to check it out, since I was nearby. I did not go swimming, but it was not crowded. So, I think this would be a good place with easy access for swimming.
These are just a few of the many amazing swimming holes in North Carolina. With many in the western NC, you can spend a few days out there and see several. I hope you have learned a little bit about the best swimming holes in North Carolina, and you go explore them for yourself. Happy exploring!
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