Kingwood Region Swimming Holes
Swimming hole in Morgantown, West Virginia · Other
Guide to unofficial swimming holes near Kingwood, WV on the Cheat River. Find directions for Pringle Run Falls, Rock Garden, and Pewee Rock for swimming & tubing.
About Kingwood Region Swimming Holes
Tucked into the rolling highlands of Preston County, West Virginia, the swimming holes of the Kingwood region offer something increasingly rare in modern outdoor recreation: genuine wildness. Scattered along the Cheat River and its tributary Pringle Run, these unofficial spots draw locals and adventurous visitors alike who are willing to trade manicured amenities for raw, unfiltered nature. There are no lifeguards here, no concession stands, no parking attendants — just cold water, ancient stone, and the sound of the current threading through the West Virginia hills.
The Setting and Landscape
Each site has its own personality. Pringle Run Falls rewards the effort of a moderately steep hike with a payoff that stops you in your tracks: water with an unmistakable aquamarine tint, a color born of the mineral-rich geology of this region. The vivid hue catches sunlight in a way that feels almost tropical, a striking contrast against the dense Appalachian forest pressing in on all sides. Downstream toward the Cheat River corridor, Rock Garden lives up to its name — massive, weathered rock formations emerge from the water and shoreline, shaped over millennia into natural platforms and alcoves. Pewee Rock offers a more adrenaline-forward experience, with jump points that have made it a rite of passage for generations of local teenagers and thrill-seeking adults. The geological drama throughout the region is real: colorful, striated rock faces tell the slow story of this land's ancient past.
Swimming, Tubing, and the Water Itself
Swimming conditions vary by site and season. Late spring through early autumn — roughly May through October — is your window. Summer brings warmer water and the full energy of the swimming hole scene, with tubers and kayakers sharing the Cheat River's gentler stretches. Fall transforms the surroundings entirely: the crowds thin, the hardwood canopy ignites in orange and gold, and the quieter pools feel almost meditative. The aquamarine color at Pringle Run is visually striking, but it's worth knowing it results from mine runoff in the watershed — something to keep in mind when planning your swim. Rock Garden and Pewee Rock require minimal hiking and are accessible to most visitors, while Pringle Run Falls demands more effort on the trail before you earn the plunge. Beyond swimming, the Cheat River corridor is well regarded for kayaking and rafting, particularly in higher water conditions earlier in the season.
Plan Your Visit
There are no facilities at any of these sites — no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash cans — so pack in and pack out everything you bring. Admission is free. The nearest towns are Kingwood, Morgantown, and Rowlesburg, all of which offer food, fuel, and lodging options to anchor your trip. Morgantown, home of West Virginia University, has the broadest range of services and is a natural base for exploring the region. If you're looking to extend your adventure with an overnight, Swallow Falls State Park across the border in Maryland offers camping and its own swimming holes worth exploring. Come prepared, leave no trace, and let the Kingwood region's untamed character do the rest.
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring to early autumn (May to October) for optimal swimming conditions and scenic beauty. Summer offers warm water, while fall brings tranquil surroundings and colorful foliage.
- Access Moderate for Pringle Run Falls due to steep hiking; easy for Rock Garden and Pewee Rock with minimal walking required.
- Facilities No facilities available. Bring water, snacks, and necessary gear. Plan ahead for a fully self-sufficient visit.
- Camping nearby At Swallow Falls S. P., east of here in MD, there are also swimming holes there.
Highlights & features
- Aquamarine water at Pringle Run Falls
- Large rock formations at Rock Garden
- Thrill-seeking jumps at Pewee Rock
- Historical charm of Kingwood area
- Vibrant fall foliage surrounding the sites
- Geological formations with colorful rocks
- Aquamarine water due to mine runoff
- No facilities for a truly natural experience
How to get there
The Kingwood Region Swimming Holes are located in West Virginia, near the towns of Morgantown, Kingwood, and Rowlesburg. These swimming spots are accessible via Route 72, which runs alongside the scenic Cheat River. Below are detailed directions to three popular locations: Pringle Run Falls, Rock Garden, and Pewee Rock. Pringle Run Falls Driving Directions:
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From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street). Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 4.1 miles.
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Look for a small bridge over Pringle Run. Just before
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crossing this bridge, there will be a steep dirt road on the right (west side) and some parking space at the bottom of the road.
Trailhead and Approach: The dirt road leading to the falls is steep and rough, and vehicles are not permitted on it. Hike up the dirt road for about 0.25 miles. The falls can be seen and heard from the road. To access the waterfall, there is a short, steep climb down from the road. The area features a stunning waterfall, aquamarine water, colorful rocks, and a large pool at the base. Flat rocks nearby provide space for sunbathing. Note: Pringle Run contains mine runoff with high acidic drainage and iron content, which creates the clear water and colorful rocks. There are no known health hazards associated with swimming here, and visitors have reported swimming without issues. Coordinates: Latitude: 39.41722 Longitude: -79.6925 Google Maps Link Rock Garden Driving Directions:
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From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street). Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 5.8 miles. Look for a small pull-off on the left (east side) of the road. Trailhead and Approach: Park at the pull-off and take an easy walk down to the Cheat River.
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The area features large rocks scattered along the river, with deep swimming spots among them. Caution
The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times. Always check the current conditions before swimming. Coordinates: Latitude: 39.39748 Longitude: -79.68807 Google Maps Link
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Pewee Rock (Party Rock) Driving Directions
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From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street). Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 6.9 miles. Look for a small pull-off on the left (east side) of the road. Trailhead and Approach: Park at the pull-off and take an easy walk down to the Cheat River.
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The area features a large rock ("Pewee Rock") with a deep swimming spot below. Caution
The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times. Always check the current conditions before swimming. Coordinates: Latitude: 39.38915 Longitude: -79.70145 Google Maps Link
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Additional Notes
These locations are remote and may not have cell service. Plan accordingly. Always exercise caution when swimming
Plan your visit
There are no facilities at any of these sites — no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash cans — so pack in and pack out everything you bring. Admission is free. The nearest towns are Kingwood, Morgantown, and Rowlesburg, all of which offer food, fuel, and lodging options to anchor your trip. Morgantown, home of West Virginia University, has the broadest range of services and is a natural base for exploring the region. If you're looking to extend your adventure with an overnight, Swallow Falls State Park across the border in Maryland offers camping and its own swimming holes worth exploring. Come prepared, leave no trace, and let the Kingwood region's untamed character do the rest.
There are no facilities at any of these sites — no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash cans — so pack in and pack out everything you bring. Admission is free. The nearest towns are Kingwood, Morgantown, and Rowlesburg, all of which offer food, fuel, and lodging options to anchor your trip. Morgantown, home of West Virginia University, has the broadest range of services and is a natural base for exploring the region. If you're looking to extend your adventure with an overnight, Swallow Falls State Park across the border in Maryland offers camping and its own swimming holes worth exploring. Come prepared, leave no trace, and let the Kingwood region's untamed character do the rest.
Access & fees
All sites are unofficial, remote, and have no facilities (restrooms, changing areas, or trash cans). Parking is limited to small pull-offs or roadside spots. Cell service may be unreliable. The dirt road to Pringle Run Falls is for foot traffic only; vehicles are not permitted to drive down it.
All sites are unofficial, remote, and have no facilities (restrooms, changing areas, or trash cans). Parking is limited to small pull-offs or roadside spots. Cell service may be unreliable. The dirt road to Pringle Run Falls is for foot traffic only; vehicles are not permitted to drive down it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kingwood Region Swimming Holes free to visit?
Kingwood Region Swimming Holes may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Kingwood Region Swimming Holes?
Yes, Kingwood Region Swimming Holes is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming, Tubing, Kayaking, Rafting. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Kingwood Region Swimming Holes?
Kingwood Region Swimming Holes is a varies-see below on Cheat River/Pringle Run located in WV, near MORGANTOWN. Guide to unofficial swimming holes near Kingwood, WV on the Cheat River. Find directions for Pringle Run Falls, Rock Garden, and Pewee Rock for swimming & tubing.
When is the best time to visit Kingwood Region Swimming Holes?
The best time to visit Kingwood Region Swimming Holes is Late spring to early autumn (May to October) for optimal swimming conditions and scenic beauty. Summer offers warm water, while fall brings tranquil surroundings and colorful foliage.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Kingwood Region Swimming Holes?
Reported facilities at Kingwood Region Swimming Holes include: No facilities available. Bring water, snacks, and necessary gear. Plan ahead for a fully self-sufficient visit.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Kingwood Region Swimming Holes?
At Swallow Falls S. P., east of here in MD, there are also swimming holes there.
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The Cheat River has long been a vital part of West Virginia’s landscape, offering recreation and inspiration. Kingwood’s Buckwheat Festival highlights local traditions and agricultural heritage.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering and respect the natural ecosystem. Help preserve the area's beauty for future generations.