Nottoway Falls

Tucked along the banks of the Nottoway River in southside Virginia, Nottoway Falls is one of those rare local secrets that feels like it belongs to another era. This unofficial, undeveloped swimming spot draws visitors from nearby Petersburg, Blackstone, and Crewe who are willing to trade manicured amenities for raw, unhurried beauty. The river tumbles over rock shelves and cascades into deep, cool natural pools, surrounded by dense Virginia forest that filters sunlight into shifting green patterns on the water's surface. It's the kind of place where the loudest sounds are birdsong and moving water.

The Setting and Landscape

The approach to Nottoway Falls sets the mood immediately. A moderate hike over uneven terrain winds through forested lowland, where hardwoods and river birches crowd the path and the smell of damp earth and moss hangs in the air. The trail is accessible to most visitors but does require sure footing, so good shoes matter. As you near the river, the sound of cascading water grows louder before you catch your first glimpse of the falls — water rushing white over exposed rock before settling into slower, deeper pools below. In summer, the canopy overhead is full and lush. Come autumn, the same trees ignite in amber and crimson, making this one of the most quietly spectacular spots in the region. Spring brings its own energy: wildflowers dot the banks, and the river runs higher and faster, though high water levels mean swimming should be avoided until conditions settle.

Swimming at Nottoway Falls

The swimming here is dynamic and refreshing in a way that no municipal pool can replicate. The cascading falls feed into natural pools of varying depth, and the cold, freshwater current keeps the temperature bracing even in the height of summer. You'll feel the pull of the current near the base of the falls, so stronger swimmers will be most comfortable exploring the deeper sections, while calmer pools along the margins offer gentler options. The water in a river environment like this runs clear after dry stretches but can cloud with sediment following rain, so timing matters. Wildlife is a constant companion — herons stalk the shallows, turtles sun on exposed rocks, and dragonflies hover over the surface in late summer. There are no lifeguards or formal safety staff on site, and facilities are unknown, so visitors should come self-sufficient and swim with a buddy.

Plan Your Visit

Nottoway Falls is free to visit and carries an unofficial designation, meaning there are no developed amenities, formal parking areas, or staff on site. Bring everything you need — water, snacks, a first aid kit, and any gear for a comfortable day outdoors. The site is best reached from the surrounding towns of Petersburg, Blackstone, and Crewe, each of which offers places to fuel up before your visit. Summer weekends draw the most visitors, so arriving early rewards you with a quieter experience. Spring and autumn offer breathtaking scenery with far fewer crowds. Always check river conditions before you go, and avoid the site entirely during or after heavy rain when water levels rise and currents become unpredictable.

Linked to the Nottoway Native American tribe and Civil War history in Petersburg; a blend of natural and historical significance.

Practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect local wildlife and plant life to preserve the area’s natural beauty.