Devil's Bathtub & southwest Virginia swims

Appalachian gorge hikes to iconic plunge pools — cold water, rugged trails, and high summer demand. Start early for parking.

5 spots in Virginia.

Plan your trip with individual listing pages below — fees, access, and seasonal notes vary by site. Use swimming holes near me to sort by GPS, or see all swimming holes in Virginia.

Creek VA

Arnold Valley Pool

Guide to the unofficial Arnold Valley Pool swimming hole in Virginia. Find directions, safety tips, and details for swimming and rope swing access.

River VA

Ben Salem Wayside

Unofficial swimming hole & picnic spot on the Maury River near Buena Vista and Lexington, VA. Free parking, tables, and river access. Plan your visit.

Slide VA

Big Marys Creek Slide

A guide to the unofficial Big Mary's Creek Slide in Virginia. Find directions, safety tips, and what to expect for swimming and sliding.

River VA

Big Otter River

Guide to the Big Otter River in Virginia. Find directions, safety tips, and details for swimming and canoeing at this unofficial, no-fee spot near Lynchburg.