Holly River S. P.
Swimming hole in Buckhannon, West Virginia · Creek
Holly River S. P. is a river/chute swimming hole. It is near Buckhannon, West Virginia. Access is free. Best season: from late spring through early fall, particularly June to September, when the water is warmest and the forest is at its greenest.
Typical season: from late spring through early fall, particularly June to September, when the water is warmest and the forest is at its greenest
About Holly River S. P.
Near Buckhannon in West Virginia, Holly River S.P. offers a straightforward outdoor swim on Left Fork Holly River.
The Left Fork Holly River winds through a landscape of dense hardwood forest, moss-covered boulders, and sandstone hollows. And along its course, it carves out a series of natural . The air here carries the clean, earthy scent of wet leaves and moving water, and the only soundtrack is birdsong and the rhythmic rush of current over stone.
These chutes and cascades send cold, clear Appalachian water tumbling into natural basins below. The kind of pools that make you catch your breath the moment you wade in. Whether you slip in slowly from a flat rock or take the plunge beneath a falling curtain of water, the sensation is immediately, gloriously reviving. Trails, Wildlife, and the Character of the Place Getting to the best . The park's well-maintained trail network winds through the kind of lush Appalachian forest that makes West Virginia legendary. Tulip poplars, black birches, and rhododendron thickets line the path.
No lifeguards patrol Holly River S.P. 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
- River/chute
- Water body
- Left Fork Holly River
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Buckhannon
- State
- West Virginia
- Coordinates
- 38.63700, -80.32200
- Best season
- from late spring through early fall, particularly June to September, when the water is warmest and the forest is at its greenest. Autumn also offers stunning foliage views.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate. Trails leading to the .
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Camping site in State Park.
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- The park offers comprehensive facilities, including picnic areas, vacation cabins, campgrounds, and well-maintained trails. Parking areas are available near trailheads.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit from late spring through early fall, particularly June to September, when the water is warmest and the forest is at its greenest. Autumn also offers stunning foliage views.
- Access Moderate. Trails leading to the .
- Facilities The park offers comprehensive facilities, including picnic areas, vacation cabins, campgrounds, and well-maintained trails. Parking areas are available near trailheads.
- Camping nearby Camping site in State Park.
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear swimming holes
- Scenic waterfalls like Shupe's Chute
- Hiking trails through lush forests
- Rich Appalachian history
- Abundant wildlife and photography spots
- Natural waterfalls forming swimming holes
- Secluded and serene locations
- Potato Knob trail with panoramic views
How to get there
Holly River S.P. lies in West Virginia near Buckhannon, Webster Springs. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. 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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Starting Point: Buckhannon, WV
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From Buckhannon, take Route 20 South and drive about 35 miles to reach the entrance of Holly River State Park.
Once you arrive at the park entrance, continue south on Route 20 for about 1 mile until you reach Holly River Left Fork Road. Turn left onto Holly River Left Fork Road. Drive 4.1 miles on Holly River Left Fork Road until you see a small sign on the right indicating Shupe’s Chute and the Potato Knob Section of the park.
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Parking and Trail Information
Park your vehicle near the marked area by the sign for Shupe’s Chute and Potato Knob. From the parking area, follow the trail signs to reach the Upper Falls. This is the first . Continue walking about 0.25 miles further along the trail to reach Shupe’s Chute, another scenic . For those seeking a more secluded experience, follow the Potato Knob trail downstream. This path leads to the Lower Falls, which are more isolated. Here, the water flows over a waterfall, cascades along rocks, and then drops into a smaller waterfall that forms a tranquil .
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Helpful notes
The trails are well-marked, but sturdy footwear is recommended as some areas may be uneven or slippery.
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Parking is limited, so arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the trails are exposed in some areas. The . Have a safe visit to Holly River State Park and its beautiful !
Plan your visit
Holly River S.P. works well as a day trip from Buckhannon or Webster Springs. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Anthony Creek Greenbrier Swimming Spots or browse more West Virginia river spots in our directory. For the full list in West Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via Holly River State Park. Parking is limited near the trailhead for Shupe's Chute and Potato Knob. The swimming holes are unofficial and natural with no designated lifeguards. All park facilities are located elsewhere within the state park grounds.
Top picks for this trip
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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Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
Buy two — a large for drying off and a small for gear — and you still spend less than one cotton beach towel.
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What to pack for Holly River S. P.
Gear we compare side by side for creek swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Holly River S. P.?
Yes. Holly River S. P. near Buckhannon and Webster Springs in WV is a river/chute swimming spot on Left Fork Holly River. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Holly River S. P. free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Holly River S. P.?
Holly River S. P. is in WV within day-trip range of Buckhannon and Webster Springs. 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
The park reflects Appalachian heritage, with local history tied to early settlers who relied on the land for sustenance and community building. Nearby towns enhance the cultural experience.
Conservation
Holly River State Park emphasizes environmental protection. Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles, avoid disturbing wildlife, and minimize their impact on the natural surroundings.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.