Campbell Creek
Swimming hole in Marion, Virginia · Waterfall
Campbell Creek is a waterfall/creek swimming hole. It is near Marion, Virginia. Access is free. Best season: Spring for vibrant wildflowers, Summer for the best.
Typical season: Spring for vibrant wildflowers, Summer for the best
About Campbell Creek
Campbell Creek lies in Virginia. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
This is no roadside pull-off. Reaching the creek demands a moderate hike across uneven terrain and steep descents, through forest corridors where poison ivy reminds you this is wild country. But when you finally hear the sound of water tumbling over rock and push through the last stretch of trail, the effort dissolves entirely.
Crystal-clear water spills over small cascading waterfalls and pools into a secluded . One of the spot's most memorable quirks is the natural log staircase that leads down to the creek. A handsome, almost theatrical entrance to a place that feels entirely removed from the developed world. In spring, wildflowers push up along the banks in vivid color. By summer the canopy is full and green, cooling the air above the water.
No lifeguards patrol Campbell Creek. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Waterfall/Creek
- Water body
- Campbell Creek
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Marion
- State
- Virginia
- Coordinates
- 37.87456, -79.00281
- Best season
- Spring for vibrant wildflowers, Summer for the best .
- Access difficulty
- Moderate; trail includes uneven terrain, steep descents, and potential encounters with poison ivy. Suitable for experienced hikers.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Backpack camping at A.T. Shelter on trail. Nearby is car camping in George Washington N.F. At Sherando Lake, off of RT 664 south of Waynesboro. Crowded on summer weekends.
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No facilities available. Visitors must bring their own supplies, including water, food, and waste bags.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Spring for vibrant wildflowers, Summer for the best .
- Access Moderate; trail includes uneven terrain, steep descents, and potential encounters with poison ivy. Suitable for experienced hikers.
- Facilities No facilities available. Visitors must bring their own supplies, including water, food, and waste bags.
- Camping nearby Backpack camping at A.T. Shelter on trail. Nearby is car camping in George Washington N.F. At Sherando Lake, off of RT 664 south of Waynesboro. Crowded on summer weekends.
Highlights & features
- Secluded swimming hole in the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Cool, clear water ideal for swimming
- Challenging hike with scenic views
- Seasonal foliage and wildlife
- Nearby attractions like Sherando Lake
- Natural log staircase leading to the creek
- Crystal-clear waters and small cascading waterfalls
- Solitude away from crowded swimming spots
How to get there
Campbell Creek lies in Virginia near Marion. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Campbell Creek lies near Marion, Virginia, and offers a scenic hike leading to a waterfall and . Follow these detailed directions to reach the location: Driving Directions: Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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From Waynesboro, Virginia
Begin by taking the Blue Ridge Parkway south. Continue on the Parkway until you reach the intersection with Route 664 at Reed’s Gap (about milepost 12). At Reed’s Gap:
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Turn east (left) onto Route 664.
Immediately after turning, you will see a parking area on the right-hand side. Park here. Hiking Directions: Starting at the Parking Area: Locate the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) trailhead, which begins as a path across a grassy field next to the woods. Follow the A.T. South for about 1.6 miles until you reach the Maupin Field Shelter. At Maupin Field Shelter: The shelter is a typical Appalachian Trail structure, and there is a spring behind it where you can collect water (ensure you purify it before drinking).
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From here, leave the A.T. And transition to the Mau-Har Trail.
Finding the Mau-Har Trail: The Mau-Har Trail begins at the left rear of the shelter (as you face the shelter). Look for signage a few yards down the trail to confirm you are on the correct path. Following the Mau-Har Trail: Hike about 1 mile on the Mau-Har Trail. Note that this trail is less frequently used and may be overgrown with vegetation, including poison ivy. Wearing long pants is recommended. The trail descends via a long log staircase to Campbell Creek. Reaching Campbell Creek:
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Cross the creek and continue following the trail downstream on the opposite side.
After about 0.25 miles, you will arrive at Campbell Creek Waterfall. : The waterfall area may offer . However, a potentially better .
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Additional Notes
Poison ivy is prevalent along the trail, so wearing long pants is strongly advised. The Mau-Har Trail may be overgrown in sections, so proceed with caution and ensure you stay on the marked path.
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Parking at Reed’s Gap is free and easily accessible.
Have a safe visit to Campbell Creek and its beautiful natural surroundings!
Plan your visit
Campbell Creek works well as a day trip from Marion. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Warrens Ferry or browse more Virginia creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, natural area with no fees or facilities. Access is via public trails (Appalachian Trail and Mau-Har Trail). The trail may be overgrown; proper hiking preparation is essential. Swimming is at your own risk.
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What to pack for Campbell Creek
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Campbell Creek?
Yes. Campbell Creek near Marion in VA is a waterfall/creek swimming spot on Campbell Creek. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Campbell Creek free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Campbell Creek?
Campbell Creek is in VA within day-trip range of Marion. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Located near Marion, VA, named for Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion, the area reflects Appalachian heritage and natural history.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles. Avoid disturbing wildlife and carry out all trash to preserve the creek’s pristine environment.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.