10 local spots to swim, paddle, & keep cool this summer
Enjoy clean water at these Potomac River region swimming holes, state parks, and boating spots
photo credit: virginia state parks
Summer’s here, and the heat is here to stay. Oof!
But who needs a pool when we live by the water? There are plenty of spots where you can jump in, cool off, and enjoy the Potomac River and local streams—all while staying safe.
Here are our team’s top picks for open and accessible local water wonderlands!
*Please note: The health of our community is our priority! Please follow posted safety recommendations, CDC guidelines, and exercise caution when recreating in or around water. Before traveling to any of the areas below, check the COVID-19 restrictions on their websites and call ahead to state parks to make sure they aren’t above capacity.
10. Poolesville Swimming Hole | Poolesville, MD
Photo Credit: Dion Hinchcliffe from flickr
Looking to escape DC's heat island to recharge and refresh? This is your ticket.
Take a short drive to a nearby swimming hole in Seneca Creek. With no hike to the creek and plenty of shade, this is definitely an easy-access adventure for anyone!
9. Blue Hole/Buzzard Rock | Fort Valley, VA
You've decided to go for a loop hike in George Washington National Forest—Buzzard Rock, High Peak, Mudhole Gap, Signal Knob, or Meneka Peak. It's a hot day and after the hiking, all you want to do is immerse yourself in some cold water. Well, you should check out Blue Hole, Snake Hole, or other natural pools for opportunities to get soaked or hang out on the shore.
8. Cunningham Falls State Park | Thurmont, MD
Photo credit: ChesaPeake Bay Program
Prefer a mountain escape? Cunningham Falls State Park is the perfect place to go. Take a dip in the lake, make a sand castle on the beach, or grab your hiking boots and take to the trails that lead to the park's spectacular waterfalls.
The park is popular and fills to capacity from time to time, so plan ahead and check the park’s website for updates.
7. Watermelon Park | Berryville, VA
Photo credit: Watermelonpark.com
Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Shenandoah River, Watermelon Park has been family-owned and operated since the 1930s.
Rent a tube and take a leisurely float down the river. When you get back, grab a snack from the park's on-site camping store, or stay the night at one of the 90 RV camp sites available.
6. Greenbrier State Park | Boonsboro, MD
Photo Courtesy of dpbirds/flickr
If you're itching to get your toes in the sand but don't feel like battling Bay Bridge traffic, head to Greenbrier State Park!
The park is a popular spot for everyone from beachgoers to fishermen. Its 42-acre lake is also perfect for canoeing and boating. A beach wheelchair is available for use at Greenbrier State Park, as well as 164 campsites suited for a variety of campers. Oh, and did you know that the Appalachian Trail passes through this park?
5. Shenandoah River State Park | Bentonville, VA
photo credit: MK campbell via flickr CC
Canoeing on the Shenandoah should be on everyone's bucket list. Shenandoah River State Park has three car-top launches and there are two outfitters within five minutes of the park. It's a great place to try your hand at paddling and cool off in the crisp waters of the Shenandoah!
4. Mather Gorge | Potomac, MD
photo credit: Potomac Paddlesports
Feeling a little more adventurous than a day at the lake? Explore the wild whitewater of the Potomac's Mather Gorge from a raft or kayak. Inexperienced paddlers should not go it alone. Sign up for a lesson with Potomac Paddlesports or find a professional guide who knows the waters.
This is NOT a place to go swimming, but it is a great place to give whitewater rafting a try with a guided trip. Emphasis on guided. Be smart out there folks.
3. Cacapon Resort State Park | Berkeley Springs, WV
photo credit: JEANNE MOZIER for the Charleston Gazette-mail
Encompassing over 6,000 acres, Cacapon Resort State Park has a lot to offer, including lake access and a beach area for swimmers. You can also go hiking, mountain biking, or golfing!
2. Point Lookout State Park | Scotland, MD
photo credit: reid silverman for somdnews.com
Get a taste of the salt life at Point Lookout State Park in Southern Maryland where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay.
Public beaches give way to beautiful landscapes and fascinating wildlife. Several years ago, the park was the site for a sea turtle release. Plus, there’s a Civil War museum!
1. Harpers Ferry, WV
photo credit: River & Trail Outfitters
Harpers Ferry is located at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. It makes sense that it's a must-visit spot for river lovers.
Take a lazy tube ride down the river or strap on a helmet and set out on a whitewater adventure. River & Trail Outfitters also offers bike rentals for the water-weary traveler.
BONUS: If you stick around till dusk you can take a ghost tour of the historic downtown.