Ore Pit Pond
Swimming hole in Copake Falls, New York · Quarry
Ore Pit Pond is a flooded quarry swimming hole. It is at 253 Route 344, Copake Falls, NY. Fee notes: $6.00 day use, camping depends on site type. Best season: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for swimming.
Typical season: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for swimming
About Ore Pit Pond
Ore Pit Pond gives you flooded quarry swimming access near Copake Falls in New York. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach. What was once an active iron ore quarry is now a spring-fed pond of striking clarity, framed by the rugged ridgelines of the Taconic Mountains. The industrial past adds a layer of intrigue to every visit. This is a place where history and wilderness have grown together into something unexpectedly beautiful. The pond sits in a natural bowl carved by decades of quarrying, and the surrounding terrain still hints at its industrial origins. Stone remnants of the Copake Iron Works linger nearby, mossy and atmospheric, giving the site a character that purely natural . Tall deciduous trees lean over the water's edges, and the hillsides beyond the park burst into vivid color each autumn. Birdsong, rustling leaves, and the occasional splash from a fellow swimmer are about as loud as it gets on a weekday morning. Wildlife. From great blue herons to white-tailed deer. Moves through the surrounding woodland with comfortable familiarity. Swim at your own risk at Ore Pit Pond. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Address
- 253 Route 344, Copake Falls, NY 12517
- Water type
- flooded quarry
- Water body
- pond
- Fee
- $6.00 day use, camping depends on site type
- Nearest town
- Copake Falls
- State
- New York
- Coordinates
- 42.12239, -73.51450
- Best season
- Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for swimming. Summer weekends are lively, while weekdays are quieter.
- Access difficulty
- Easy to moderate. The pond is easily accessible by car, and trails range from beginner-friendly to moderate in difficulty.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- Ground; platform tent sites, 2 sizes of RV sites, cabins; 1-800-456-CAMP
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, biking
- Facilities
- Visitors can enjoy on-site amenities like showers, lockers, toilets, and a wading pool. Camping options range from tent sites to cabins.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitLate spring through early fall offers the best weather for swimming. Summer weekends are lively, while weekdays are quieter.
- AccessEasy to moderate. The pond is easily accessible by car, and trails range from beginner-friendly to moderate in difficulty.
- FacilitiesVisitors can enjoy on-site amenities like showers, lockers, toilets, and a wading pool. Camping options range from tent sites to cabins.
- Camping nearbyGround; platform tent sites, 2 sizes of RV sites, cabins; 1-800-456-CAMP
Highlights & features
- Spring-fed swimming pond
- Historical ironworks site
- Family-friendly facilities
- Scenic trails and wildlife
- Photography opportunities
- Historical remnants of Copake Iron Works
- Spring-fed water with exceptional clarity
- Proximity to Bash Bish Falls
How to get there
Ore Pit Pond lies in New York near Copake Falls. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Begin your journey by heading to Route 22 (RT 22) and follow it to the town of Copake Falls, NY. Once in Copake Falls, turn east onto Route 344 (RT 344). This road is also known as Falls Road and leads toward Taconic State Park. Drive about 0.25 miles on RT 344, and you will see the entrance to Taconic State Park on your left. This is where you will park. Look for signage indicating the park entrance. Parking is available at the Taconic State Park lot. Be aware that parking may require a fee, depending on the season. It’s recommended to bring cash or a card for payment.
From the parking lot, follow the designated trails within Taconic State Park to reach Ore Pit Pond. Trailheads are typically marked with signage, and park maps may be available at the entrance or visitor center to assist you.
If you wish to explore further, Bash Bish Falls lies about 2 miles down RT 344 from the park entrance. However, this is optional and not required to access Ore Pit Pond.
Additional Notes
Ore Pit Pond lies within Taconic State Park, so be prepared to follow park rules and regulations. Bring appropriate footwear for walking on trails, as some paths may be uneven. Restrooms and picnic areas are typically available within Taconic State Park near the parking lot. Have a safe visit to Ore Pit Pond! 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
Ore Pit Pond works well as a day trip from Copake Falls. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Bash Bish Falls (about 0.8 mi away) or browse more New York quarry spots in our directory. For the full list in New York, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is through Taconic State Park. A day-use fee of $6.00 applies; camping fees vary by site. Parking is available at the main park lot, where fees may also be required. Always verify current rates and hours with New York State Parks before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Ore Pit Pond?
Yes. Ore Pit Pond near Copake Falls in NY is a flooded quarry swimming spot on pond. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Ore Pit Pond cost?
Plan for fees: $6.00 day use, camping depends on site type. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Ore Pit Pond?
Ore Pit Pond is in NY within day-trip range of Copake Falls. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Once a bustling center for iron production, the area around Ore Pit Pond is steeped in industrial history, with preserved artifacts and educational exhibits nearby.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the pond's pristine ecosystem. Fishing is regulated to maintain a balanced aquatic habitat.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.