Mount Storm Swimming Spots
Swimming hole in West Virginia, West Virginia · Other
Mount Storm Swimming Spots is a natural swimming hole. It is near West Virginia, West Virginia. Fee varies. Best season: Late spring to early fall is ideal, with peak.
Typical season: Late spring to early fall is ideal, with peak
About Mount Storm Swimming Spots
Mount Storm Swimming Spots sits in West Virginia along Varies -See Below. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. In a single afternoon you could leap from a rock bluff into a cold, shadowy river pool, then warm yourself in a lake heated by an industrial power plant. A juxtaposition as surprising as it is delightful. The Settings: From Deep Pools to Warm Open Water Each site here has its own distinct personality. At Barnum Hole , the water is deep and dramatic. The kind of place where a rock bluff rises above a dark, clear pool and practically dares you to jump. The sound of water moving through the gorge and the cold shock of the plunge make it one of the most memorable spots in the region. Abrams Creek feels like a rustic hideaway: waterfalls and cascades tumble through a landscape thick with rhododendron and hardwood, and in late summer you may share the water with herons and other wildlife. The creek's cascades create natural wading pools framed by mossy boulders and fern-draped banks. Schell Road rewards adventurous visitors willing to navigate rugged terrain. A high-clearance vehicle may be necessary. with a scenic swimming area. Laurel Run offers something gentler: low waterfalls spill into tranquil pools beneath a canopy of lush vegetation, making it a strong choice for a quiet afternoon float. Then there is Mount Storm Lake , where warm water discharged from a nearby power plant keeps temperatures unusually comfortable, creating a scenic swimming spot. Open water that feels more like late July even when the surrounding hills have cooled. The creek and river spots. Barnum Hole, Abrams Creek, Schell Road, and Laurel Run. Run cold and clear in the warmer months, fed by highland springs and shaded ravines. Depths range from the dramatic plunge pool at Barnum Hole to the shallow, rocky runs at Laurel Run. Mount Storm Lake, by contrast, offers open, warm water more reminiscent of a southern reservoir than a highland lake. Treat Mount Storm Swimming Spots as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Varies -see below
- Water body
- Varies -see below
- Fee
- Fee varies
- State
- West Virginia
- Coordinates
- 39.27450, -79.25280
- Best season
- Late spring to early fall is ideal, with peak . Fall offers breathtaking foliage around Abrams Creek.
- Access difficulty
- Varies by site: Barnum Hole and Mount Storm Lake are easily accessible, while Schell Road and Laurel Run require moderate effort and may demand high-clearance vehicles.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Limited — see facilities notes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Developed camping nearby at Jennings Randolph Lake. Lots of campgrounds south of here in the Monongahela N.F. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere in the N.F. Camping nearby at private campgrounds.
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Barnum Hole offers picnic tables and toilets nearby. Mount Storm Lake has a boat launch and portable restrooms. Abrams Creek features cabins and camping facilities.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitLate spring to early fall is ideal, with peak . Fall offers breathtaking foliage around Abrams Creek.
- AccessVaries by site: Barnum Hole and Mount Storm Lake are easily accessible, while Schell Road and Laurel Run require moderate effort and may demand high-clearance vehicles.
- FacilitiesBarnum Hole offers picnic tables and toilets nearby. Mount Storm Lake has a boat launch and portable restrooms. Abrams Creek features cabins and camping facilities.
- Camping nearbyDeveloped camping nearby at Jennings Randolph Lake. Lots of campgrounds south of here in the Monongahela N.F. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere in the N.F. Camping nearby at private campgrounds.
Highlights & features
- Barnum Hole: Deep, dramatic swimming pool with rock bluff for jumping.
- Abrams Creek: Rustic retreat with waterfalls, cascades, and wildlife.
- Schell Road: Adventurous swimming hole surrounded by rugged terrain.
- Laurel Run: Tranquil waters with low waterfalls and lush vegetation.
- Mount Storm Lake: Warm, industrially-heated waters ideal for year-round swimming.
- Diverse swimming experiences: warm lake waters, deep river pools, cascading streams, and rock bluffs.
- Contrasting industrial and natural settings at Mount Storm Lake.
How to get there
Mount Storm Swimming Spots lies in West Virginia near West Virginia. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Mount Storm State: West Virginia (WV) Nearby Towns: Keyser, Mount Storm Barnum Hole Description: A large, deep . Caution: Do not swim here if the current is strong. Always check the depth before jumping. Driving Directions:
From I-68 in Cumberland, MD, take Route 220 south to Keyser, WV.
Continue on Route 972 south until you reach Route 50. Follow Route 50 west to the intersection with Route 42 north. From the intersection, take Route 42 north and then turn right onto Route 46 north toward Jennings Randolph Lake. Drive about 2 miles on Route 46, then turn left onto Route 64-2 (Barnum Road). Follow Barnum Road for 3.3 miles, passing the county park with picnic tables and toilets (no camping allowed). Continue to the very end of Barnum Road, where you will find a large parking area.
Final Approach
Developed camping is available nearby at Jennings Randolph Lake. Abram’s Creek Description
A privately-owned natural retreat featuring waterfalls, . Camping, small cabins, and tipi rentals are available. Fees apply, and reservations are required. Driving Directions: From the intersection of Route 50 and Route 42 north, proceed west on Route 50 for 4.3 miles. Look for a concrete bridge crossing Abram’s Creek (not signed). Just before the bridge, turn right onto a gravel road marked by a mailbox labeled "Lombardi." Follow the gravel road past a small white house and a larger stream-front home. Bear right and continue past entrance fence poles. Drive along the road (which transitions from dirt to improved gravel) and park near the port-a-potty in the overflow parking area.
Final Approach
Follow the low road past the cabin and down to the stream and main bonfire area. Schell Road Description: A deep . Caution:
Do not swim here if the current is strong. Driving Directions
From the Abram’s Creek turnoff, continue west on Route 50 for 0.2 miles. Turn right onto Schell Road.
Drive 4.7 miles along Schell Road
The first 2 miles are paved. The next 2 miles are gravel. The final mile is rough earth and rock (high-clearance or 4-wheel drive required). At mile 3.5, keep left down the hill. Park in the rounded parking area near the AT&T fiber optic crossing and railroad tracks.
Final Approach
Walk across the railroad tracks and take any trail down to the swimming area. Explore upstream or downstream for additional sights. Laurel Run Description: A series of . Caution:
Only wade across the river at low water when the current is safe. Driving Directions
From the Schell Road . Once across, walk upstream along Laurel Run to explore the swimming area. Mount Storm Lake Description: A warm lake used for cooling by a nearby coal-burning power plant, with water temperatures averaging about 20 degrees above normal. popular for swimming and relaxing. Driving Directions:
From Route 50, follow signs for Mount Storm Lake.
Look for the boat launch area, which also serves as the swimming area. Final Approach: Bathing suits are required. Picnic tables and porta-potties are available near the boat launch area.
Helpful notes
Always exercise caution when . Check currents and water levels before entering. Many locations have few developed facilities, so plan accordingly. 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.
Plan your visit
Mount Storm Swimming Spots works well as a day trip from West Virginia. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Potomac State Forest Swimming Holes, Maryland (about 6.3 mi away) or browse more West Virginia swimming spots in our directory. For the full list in West Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access details vary by location. Barnum Hole and Schell Road are public river access points. Abram's Creek is privately owned and requires reservations and fees. Mount Storm Lake has a public boat launch for swimming. Always respect private property and posted regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Mount Storm Swimming Spots?
Yes. Mount Storm Swimming Spots in WV is a varies -see below swimming spot on Varies -see below. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Mount Storm Swimming Spots cost?
Plan for fees: Varies -see below. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Mount Storm Swimming Spots?
Mount Storm Swimming Spots is in WV. Confirm the trailhead or park entrance on a current map before you go; roadside parking is often limited.
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Map & location
Culture & history
The North Branch Potomac River and surrounding waterways have historical importance, supporting local communities for centuries. Mount Storm Lake reflects the intersection of industry and recreation.
Conservation
Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing the wildlife and vegetation. Respect water safety conditions to prevent erosion and contamination.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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