Kerhonkson Region Swimming Holes

Tucked into the rolling landscape of Ulster County, the swimming holes of the Kerhonkson region feel like a well-kept secret shared between locals and those lucky enough to wander off the beaten path. Strung loosely along Route 209, these unofficial spots along Sandburg Creek and Rondout Creek offer something increasingly rare: a genuinely wild place to cool off on a hot summer afternoon, surrounded by towering forest and the sound of water moving over ancient stone.

The Setting and Landscape

The terrain here is quintessential Catskills — dense hardwood forests punctuated by mossy rock outcroppings and the glint of creek water through the trees. Both Sandburg Creek and Rondout Creek have carved their way through the region over centuries, leaving behind a series of natural rock formations that pool into swimmable hollows. The geology tells a long story: smooth, curved stone walls worn by millennia of current, shallow ledges giving way to deeper pockets where the water takes on a cool, greenish clarity. In summer, the canopy closes overhead and the air near the water feels noticeably cooler — a welcome relief when the valley bakes in July heat. Come fall, the same corridors explode in amber and crimson, making even a casual walk to the water feel like a reward in itself.

What Swimming Is Like

These are true swimming holes in the oldest sense: no ropes, no lifeguards, no concession stands. What you'll find instead is a range of natural options — some spots shallow enough for kids to wade and splash, others with depth enough for a proper swim or a careful jump from a low rock ledge. The water in both Sandburg Creek and Rondout Creek runs crystal clear in summer, fed by the surrounding hillsides and filtered through rock. It's cold even in August, the kind of cold that makes you gasp on entry and feel electric once you're in. Because these are unofficial, unsanctioned sites, the experience changes depending on the season and recent rainfall. Spring brings dramatic flow and powerful current; summer mellows things into inviting pools. A little exploration is part of the charm — and part of the responsibility.

Practical

Rondout Creek's historical significance as a 19th-century industrial waterway adds depth to its recreational use today. The area also reflects the rich natural heritage of Ulster County.

Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the area’s natural beauty. Avoid littering and respect the local wildlife and plant life.