CreekPA
Eleven Foot Hole
Carved into Swift Run Creek over centuries of patient water work, this deep natural pool earns its name. Plunging to a depth that gives swimmers room to truly disappear beneath the surface.
View detailsSwimming holes near State College, Pennsylvania
24 natural swim spots within about 100 miles of State College, Pennsylvania.
This page lists 24 natural swimming holes near State College, Pennsylvania, sorted by straight-line distance within about 100 miles — including 3 rivers, 16 creeks, 4 lakes, and 1 other. It is a city day-trip list, not the national GPS finder. Open each listing for directions, fees, and access before you drive.
Where can you swim near State College?
Near State College, Pennsylvania, our directory maps 24 natural swimming holes within about 100 miles of the city center — including 3 rivers, 16 creeks, 4 lakes, and 1 other. The closest mapped spot is Eleven Foot Hole (0.1 mi straight-line). Distances are not drive time; open each listing for directions, fee notes, access rules, and safety context before you travel.
At a glance — swimming holes near State College
| Central place | State College, Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Search radius | About 100 miles |
| Mapped spots | 24 |
| Closest listing | Eleven Foot Hole (0.1 mi) |
| Water types | River (3), Creek (16), Lake (4), Other (1) |
| Typical fees | 20 free · 2 fee · 2 varies |
All swimming holes near State College
24 natural swim spots in Pennsylvania, sorted by distance from the city center. Statewide inventory counts are on the U.S. swimming holes dataset. For live GPS sorting from your device, use the GPS finder.
LakePA
Greenwood Furnace State Park
Greenwood Furnace S. P. is a lake swimming spot on East Branch Standing Stone Creek near State College, Pennsylvania. What people come for: Historic ironworks ghost town; Clear, cool creek for swimming. Access is free, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas, camping and parking. Best visited in June to August. Swim only in the designated area.
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Varies- see belowPA
Trough Creek Region Swimming Spots
Trough Creek Region Swimming Spots is a varies- see below destination on Varies- see below in PA near Altoona, Huntingdon, Entriken. Fee note: No. Confirm current access and conditions before you go — no lifeguards at informal spots.
View detailsCreekPA
Hammersley Hole
Hammersley Hole is a creek swimming spot on Hammersley Fork near Williamsport, Pennsylvania. What people come for: Secluded natural pool in Pennsylvania; Challenging 12-mile hike to access. Access is free, and there are no facilities on site. Best visited in Autumn. The round-trip hike is over 12 miles on demanding, unmarked trails.
View detailsSpring-fed lake at damPA
R.b.winter State Park
R.B.Winter S. P. near Williamsport, Pennsylvania is a spring-fed lake at dam swimming spot on Rapid Run, Halfway Lake. What people come for: Spring-fed Halfway Lake with cool temperatures; Surrounded by Bald Eagle State Forest. Access is free, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas and camping. Best visited in Summer. Supervise children closely at all times in and near the water.
View detailsCreekPA
Blackwell Region Swimming Holes
The wild waterway that carved Pennsylvania's own Grand Canyon. There's no single destination here, but rather a series of discoveries waiting along one of the most scenic creek corridors in the northeastern United States.
View detailsCreekPA
Ole Bull State Park
Ole Bull S. P. near Williamsport, Pennsylvania is a creek swimming spot on Kettle Creek. What people come for: Historical significance tied to Ole Bull; Clear, refreshing waters of Kettle Creek. Access is free, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas and camping. Best visited in Summer. Always supervise children closely in and near the water.
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Pine Creek Swimming Holes In Pennsylvania
Pine Creek swimming holes in Pennsylvania’s PA Wilds near Waterville and Jersey Shore (Williamsport area) include clear roadside and creek pools along Route 44. Free access — levels rise fast after rain.
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Yellow Breeches Creek
Yellow Breeches Creek near Carlisle and Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania has clear limestone creek swimming holes with free informal access. Cold spring-fed water; respect private property along the corridor.
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RiverPA
City Island Beach
City Island Beach is a river swimming spot on Susquehanna River near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. What people come for: Located in the heart of Harrisburg; Gentle waters ideal for families. Access is free, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas, camping and parking. Best visited in June to August. No lifeguard services are indicated.
View detailsCreek/LakePA
Galeton
Where Pine Creek and Berger Lake come together, you'll find cool, clear water framed by the green hills and hardwood forests that define this corner of north-central Pennsylvania.
View detailsCreekPA
Swatara
This unofficial spot draws locals who know the creek well. Families spreading out on picnic blankets, kids splashing in the shallows, and the occasional great blue heron standing motionless at the water's edge.
View detailsCreekPA
Davidsville
Davidsville is a creek swimming spot on Stonycreek River and Paint Creek near Johnstown, Pennsylvania. What people come for: Cool, clear water ideal for swimming; Scenic single-lane bridge access. Access is free, and there are no facilities on site. Best visited in Late spring through early fall. Always enter water feet-first.
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Martins Mill Bridge
Martins Mill Bridge lies in Pennsylvania, where Conococheague Creek moves through a wooded corridor. The historic covered bridge arches over the Conococheague Creek, its weathered timbers casting dappled reflections on the water below, and on a warm summer afternoon, it's easy to understand why.
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Conococheague Creek
You don't need a trail map or a full-day commitment. Just a warm afternoon, a pair of shorts, and the willingness to follow the sound of laughing kids and splashing water to a place that feels surprisingly removed from the surrounding streets.
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Fairhope Wills Creek Swimming Holes
There are no signs, no snack bars, no lifeguards. Just the sound of rushing water over smooth stone, the cool shade of overhanging hardwoods, and a creek that has been carving its path through this ridge-and-valley landscape long before anyone thought to swim in it.
View detailsCreekPA
Four Quarters Farm
Access to this private retreat requires either a membership or registration for one of the seasonal festivals held on-site. A small hoop to jump through that keeps the crowds away and the atmosphere genuinely special.
View detailsRiverPA
Cook Forest State Park
Cook Forest S. P. is a river swimming spot on Clarion River near Marienville, Pennsylvania. What people come for: Historic virgin white pine and hemlock forest; Crystal-clear Clarion River. Access is free, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas, camping and parking. Best visited in Autumn. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket when tubing or canoeing.
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Loleta
Loleta near Ridgway, Pennsylvania is a creek swimming spot on Millstone Creek. What people come for: Historical ghost town setting; Crystal-clear Millstone Creek. There is a fee or park admission, and you will find restrooms, picnic areas and camping. Best visited in June through August. No lifeguard is on duty.
View detailsRiverPA
Pirate Rock
Pirate Rock lies in Pennsylvania, where Tioga River moves through a wooded corridor. There are no signs pointing you here, no entry gates, no lifeguard stands.
View detailsCreekPA
Loyalsock Creek Swimming Destinations In Pennsylvania
Loyalsock Creek Swimming Destinations in Pennsylvania is a creek destination on Loyalsock Creek in PA near Williamsport, Laporte, Forksville. Fee note: Varies, see below. Confirm current access and conditions before you go — no lifeguards at informal spots.
View detailsLakePA
Mount Gretna Lake
Fed by the cool, spring-influenced waters of Lake Conewago, this officially recognized swimming area. The lake's crystal-clear water catches the summer light in a way that makes the sandy bottom visible from the surface.
View detailsCreekPA
Blue Hole Barronvale
Blue Hole Barronvale on Laurel Creek near Somerset, Pennsylvania is a free clear creek swimming hole in the Laurel Highlands. Unique rock formations and cold mountain water — no lifeguards.
View detailsCreekPA
Robinson Hole
Robinson Hole on Montour Run near Robinson Township / Pittsburgh Airport, Pennsylvania is a free clear creek swimming hole. Accessible Pittsburgh-area swim — check depth and current after rain.
View detailsTypes of swimming holes near State College
Browse by water type in Pennsylvania — each link opens the full state directory for that category.
River (3)
Looking for rivers near you to swim? A river swimming hole is moving water deep enough to swim or wade — often a bend, pool, or slack-water pocket. Browse river spots below, or start with GPS near-me sorting, then confirm access and flow the day you go.
Creek (16)
Looking for swimming creeks near you? Creek swimming holes are smaller stream and brook pools — usually cooler, shallower, and tucked into forests or hollows. Use the list below (or near-me GPS), then confirm water level after rain.
Lake (4)
Looking for swimming lakes near you? Only swim where it is allowed — many reservoirs and drinking-water lakes ban body contact. This catalog is lakes, ponds, and reservoirs with documented public swim access: beaches, fees, and no-swim warnings on each listing.
Other (1)
Mixed or unique water types that do not fit a single category — review each listing for access and conditions.
Creeks, lakes, and water holes near State College
People search for this in a dozen different ways. Here is what each one means around State College, with the counts from our directory.
- creeks near me
- Within about 100 miles of State College we map 16 creek swimming holes. The closest is Eleven Foot Hole, about 0.1 mi out. Also searched as: swimming creeks near me, water streams near me. Sort creek swimming holes by distance from you.
- river swimming near me
- Within about 100 miles of State College we map 3 river swimming holes. The closest is City Island Beach, about 63 mi out. Also searched as: rivers you can swim in near me. Sort river swimming holes by distance from you.
- swimming lakes near me
- Within about 100 miles of State College we map 4 swimming lakes. The closest is Greenwood Furnace State Park, about 11 mi out. Also searched as: lakes to swim near me, swimmable lakes near me. Sort swimming lakes by distance from you.
- water holes near me
- "Water hole" and "swim spot" are the same search as swimming hole — natural outdoor water deep enough to swim or wade. We map 24 of them within about 100 miles of State College, across 4 water types. Browse the full directory.
- where to go swimming near me
- For outdoor swimming near State College, start with the 24 listings on this page sorted by distance from the city center, then read the access notes before you drive — the closest pin is not always one you are allowed to swim in. Municipal pools are not in this directory. Sort everything by GPS distance.
- free places to swim near me
- 20 of the 24 spots near State College are listed as free or no-fee access. Most are public-land creek and river access points; parking passes can still apply at trailheads. Show free swim spots near me.
What to expect at nearby spots
Highlights and safety notes from our listings — not third-party reviews. Report outdated info or share a tip.
- Eleven Foot HoleCrystal-clear waters
- Eleven Foot HoleAlways test water depth and check for submerged obstacles before entering
- Greenwood Furnace State ParkHistoric ironworks ghost town
- Greenwood Furnace State ParkSwim only in the designated area
- Trough Creek Region Swimming SpotsSandy beach at Tatman Run
- Trough Creek Region Swimming SpotsSwim at your own risk
- Hammersley HoleSecluded natural pool in Pennsylvania
- Hammersley HoleThe round-trip hike is over 12 miles on demanding, unmarked trails
Natural swim spots in the State College area
State College is a practical launch point for day trips to natural swimming holes in Pennsylvania. Within about 100 miles you will find 24 mapped destinations in our directory, starting with Eleven Foot Hole about 0.1 mi from the city center.
The mix spans river, creek, lake, other — related terms searchers use include creek swimming, river swimming holes, spring-fed pools, and wild swimming.
How distances work near State College
Every card on this page is a verified directory entry in Pennsylvania with map coordinates. We measure straight-line distance from the State College city center — not driving time. A creek swimming hole 12 miles away on forest roads can take longer than a river access point 20 miles away on a highway.
Wild swimming near State College includes informal river bends, spring-fed pools, waterfall plunge pools, and developed park swim areas. Rules, fees, and seasonal access differ by land manager. Never assume swimming is allowed without checking the listing and posted signs the day you visit.
Safety and water quality near you
Natural water near State College changes after rain, snowmelt, and summer heat. Cold shock, currents, submerged rocks, and bacteria are real risks at creek and river swimming holes — most sites have no lifeguard. Check weather and local advisories before you enter the water.
We publish original planning copy, safety tips, and last-updated dates on each listing. See our editorial policy for sourcing standards, or contact us if access or conditions have changed.
Swimming holes near State College — FAQ
Where can you swim near State College?
Near State College, Pennsylvania, our directory lists 24 natural swimming holes within about 100 miles — mainly 3 rivers, 16 creeks, 4 lakes, and 1 other. Each listing links to directions, fee notes, and safety context. Use near me on your phone for live distance sorting from your location.
How many swimming holes are near State College, Pennsylvania?
This page shows 24 mapped natural swim spots within about 100 miles of State College. The full Pennsylvania directory may list additional holes farther out or awaiting coordinates. Counts update as we verify new listings.
What is the closest swimming hole to State College?
The closest open mapped spot to State College is Eleven Foot Hole (0.1 mi straight-line). Open that listing for driving directions, access notes, and current fee information — unofficial holes can change without notice.
Are swimming holes near State College free?
20 listings note free or no-fee access; 2 require a fee or park admission; 2 have variable or unverified fees. Open each spot page for current fee details.
What types of swimming holes are near State College?
Near State College, documented water types include rivers, creeks, lakes, other. A swimming hole is a natural outdoor pool in moving or spring-fed water — not a chlorinated pool. Filter by type on the Pennsylvania state page or open each card for water-body details.
When is the best time to visit swimming holes near State College?
Late spring through early fall is the usual swim season near State College, but snowmelt, drought, and weekend crowds change conditions week to week. Check each listing before you drive — high water after storms can make creeks and rivers unsafe.
Is it safe to swim in rivers and creeks near State College?
Wild swimming near State College carries real risks: cold water, currents, rocks, and no lifeguards at most unofficial sites. Check weather, water level, and posted warnings the day you visit. Read our river safety guide and each listing's safety section before entering the water.
Where can I find creeks near State College?
Within about 100 miles of State College we map 16 creek swimming holes. The closest is Eleven Foot Hole, about 0.1 mi out. Also searched as: swimming creeks near me, water streams near me.
Where can I find river swimming near State College?
Within about 100 miles of State College we map 3 river swimming holes. The closest is City Island Beach, about 63 mi out. Also searched as: rivers you can swim in near me.
Where can I find swimming lakes near State College?
Within about 100 miles of State College we map 4 swimming lakes. The closest is Greenwood Furnace State Park, about 11 mi out. Also searched as: lakes to swim near me, swimmable lakes near me.
Where can I find water holes near State College?
"Water hole" and "swim spot" are the same search as swimming hole — natural outdoor water deep enough to swim or wade. We map 24 of them within about 100 miles of State College, across 4 water types.
Listing data last updated across spots on this page.
Guides: Pennsylvania swimming holes guide · Swimming holes near Philadelphia · Swimming holes near Pittsburgh