Swimming holes near Ithaca are mainly managed Finger Lakes gorge parks — Treman and Buttermilk — with designated swim zones, fees, and no free gorge-wide swimming.
- Base
- Ithaca, NY
- Top parks
- Treman S.P. · Buttermilk Falls S.P.
- Rules
- Designated swim zones only
- Water
- Cold gorge / stream-fed pools
- State page
- /states/new-york/
Swimming holes near Ithaca are Finger Lakes gorge parks — not unmarked cliff jumps. The searches that matter are Treman State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park. Statewide listings: /states/new-york/.
Treman (Robert H. Treman State Park)
Treman S.P. — The swim destination most visitors want is the lifeguarded stream-fed pool at the lower park when it is open. Swimming elsewhere in the gorge is generally prohibited and unsafe. Expect seasonal vehicle fees and possible closures for water quality or staffing.
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls S.P. — Classic Ithaca-side gorge park. Use designated swim areas only; treat waterfall viewpoints as scenic, not swim invitations (waterfall safety).
Other Ithaca-area water
Six Mile Creek area — Additional Ithaca-orbit listing when park swim zones are closed or overcrowded — still confirm access and rules.
Ithaca weekend flow
- Check NY State Parks swim status the morning you go.
- Arrive early on hot Saturdays — lots fill.
- Stay in marked swim areas; no gorge freelancing.
- Bring a warm layer; gorge shade stays cool after swimming.
Ithaca swimming rewards visitors who follow park swim zones instead of chasing unmarked gorge rumors.
Top picks for this trip
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
For most swimmers, the Earth Pak is the easy default — tough, affordable, and it comes with the phone case you were going to buy anyway.
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Merrell Hydro Moc
If you want one shoe that handles the walk in, the swim, and the lounge afterward, the Hydro Moc is the easiest pick.
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Treman S. P.
Robert H. Treman State Park near Ithaca, NY — lifeguarded natural pool below Lower Falls in Enfield Glen, plus gorge trails to Lucifer Falls. Seasonal vehicle fee and swim rules.
View details Buttermilk Falls S. P.
Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. Buttermilk Creek carves its way through a dramatic gorge before spilling down a series of cascading falls into a cool, inviting pool below.
View details Six Mile Creek Area
Six Mile Creek Area sits in New York. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities.
View detailsFrequently asked questions
Are there swimming holes near Ithaca?
Yes — the best-known are managed gorge parks. Robert H. Treman State Park’s lifeguarded stream-fed pool and Buttermilk Falls State Park are the primary visitor searches. Follow posted swim zones only.
Can you swim at Treman or Buttermilk?
Swimming is allowed only in designated areas when open — often a lifeguarded pool at lower Treman. Creek and gorge swimming elsewhere in the parks is typically prohibited. Check NY State Parks conditions before you go.
When is Ithaca swim season?
Summer, while park swim facilities are staffed and open. Cold gorge water and after-rain closures still apply. Arrive early on hot weekends.