Red Creek
Swimming hole in Petersburg, West Virginia · Waterfall
Red Creek is a falls/slide swimming hole. It is near Petersburg, West Virginia. Access is free. Best season: Late spring to early fall (May through September) provides the best conditions for swimming.
Typical season: Late spring to early fall (May through September) provides the best conditions for swimming
About Red Creek
Red Creek sits in West Virginia. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. This is not a manicured park with parking lots and picnic tables. It is a genuine wilderness . The creek earns its name: the water carries a faint amber tint from tannins and minerals, a hallmark of high-elevation mountain streams, and it runs cold and clear even in summer's peak. The terrain is strenuous. Steep inclines, exposed rocky scrambles, and multiple creek crossings demand sturdy footwear and a honest assessment of your fitness level. This trail is not recommended for small children or inexperienced hikers, and the difficulty is genuine rather than exaggerated. What you earn at the end is extraordinary: a series of cascading falls descending through a moss-edged gorge thick with ferns, rhododendron tunnels, and the kind of Appalachian biodiversity that stops photographers mid-stride. Birdsong and the persistent rush of moving water are your constant companions. In autumn, the surrounding hardwood canopy ignites in gold, rust, and crimson. Making the hike itself as rewarding as the destination. No lifeguards patrol Red Creek. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Falls/Slide
- Water body
- Red Creek
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Petersburg
- State
- West Virginia
- Coordinates
- 38.99780, -79.35550
- Best season
- Late spring to early fall (May through September) provides the best conditions for swimming. Autumn offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures for hiking.
- Access difficulty
- Strenuous; steep inclines, rocky terrain, and creek crossings make this location challenging. Not recommended for small children or inexperienced hikers.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Red Creek Campground is nearby on RT 75; Seneca Shadows Campground is further away, south on RT 33/28. Primitive camping is permitted in the area - BUT DO NOT CAMP near the swimming area.
- Activities
- Swimming, sliding, jumping
- Facilities
- No facilities are available on-site. You should bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and safety gear. Camping options are available nearby at Red Creek Campground and Seneca Shadows Campground.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitLate spring to early fall (May through September) provides the best conditions for swimming. Autumn offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures for hiking.
- AccessStrenuous; steep inclines, rocky terrain, and creek crossings make this location challenging. Not recommended for small children or inexperienced hikers.
- FacilitiesNo facilities are available on-site. You should bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and safety gear. Camping options are available nearby at Red Creek Campground and Seneca Shadows Campground.
- Camping nearbyRed Creek Campground is nearby on RT 75; Seneca Shadows Campground is further away, south on RT 33/28. Primitive camping is permitted in the area - BUT DO NOT CAMP near the swimming area.
Highlights & features
- Three picturesque waterfalls
- Refreshing natural swimming pools
- Strenuous yet rewarding hiking trails
- Rich Appalachian wildlife and flora
- Unmatched photography opportunities
- Three distinct swimming holes beneath waterfalls
- Rugged terrain offering a true wilderness experience
- Historical context tied to the region’s cultural heritage
How to get there
Red Creek lies in West Virginia near Petersburg, Hopeville. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go.
Starting Point: Petersburg, WV
Drive to Jordon Run
Road
From Petersburg, take Route 55 southwest for about 9.25 miles.
Just before reaching the town of Hopeville, turn sharply right (north) onto Jordon Run Road (County Road 28/7).
Turn onto Forest Road 19
Drive less than 1 mile on Jordon Run Road, then turn left (west) onto Forest Road 19 (FR 19). Choose Your Route to Red Creek Option 1: Via Fisher Spring Run Trail (TR 510) Continue west on FR 19 for about 6 miles.
Turn right (north) onto Forest Road 75 (FR 75).
Drive 3.2 miles to the trailhead for Fisher Spring Run Trail (TR 510). Park at the trailhead. Hike about 2 miles on Fisher Spring Run Trail, keeping to the right along Fisher Spring Run. The trail involves tricky creek crossings, large boulders, and steep sections near the end, making it challenging for small children. The trail leads to where Fisher Spring Run meets Red Creek. Option 2: Via Red Creek Trail (TR 514) Continue west on FR 19, passing FR 75. Drive about 3.5 miles past FR 75 until you reach a brown gamekeeper’s cabin near Route 45. Park near the cabin. Begin hiking on Red Creek Trail (TR 514). Follow the trail for about 2.5 miles to its intersection with Fisher Spring Run Trail (TR 510), where Fisher Spring Run enters Red Creek. This hike is considered strenuous and may not be suitable for beginners or small children. On Red Creek, both above and below the point where Fisher Spring Run enters, you will find three small waterfalls. Each waterfall has a scenic swimming spot. Parking Information Parking is available at the Fisher Spring Run Trailhead (Option 1) or near the brown gamekeeper’s cabin by Route 45 (Option 2). Ensure your vehicle is parked safely and does not obstruct any roadways or access points.
Helpful notes
Both hiking routes involve rugged terrain and may require crossing streams and navigating steep sections. Wear sturdy footwear and bring appropriate gear for hiking and swimming. Be mindful of weather conditions and plan accordingly, as trails may become slippery or difficult to navigate after rain. Have a safe visit to Red Creek and its beautiful ! 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
Red Creek works well as a day trip from Petersburg or Hopeville. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Seneca Area (about 9.2 mi away) or browse more West Virginia waterfall spots in our directory. For the full list in West Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, unmaintained natural area with no fees, facilities, or services. Parking is at designated trailheads on Forest Service roads. Both hiking routes are strenuous and involve navigating difficult terrain and creek crossings. Not suitable for young children or beginners. Access and water conditions depend on weather and season.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Red Creek?
Yes. Red Creek near Petersburg and Hopeville in WV has waterfall / cascade pools on Red Creek used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Red Creek free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Red Creek?
Red Creek is in WV within day-trip range of Petersburg and Hopeville. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Red Creek’s name and historical significance reflect the dynamics of early Appalachian settlements. Nearby towns like Hopeville and Petersburg offer glimpses into the region’s past.
Conservation
Overuse has led to environmental concerns. Visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the area’s natural beauty. Camping near swimming holes is prohibited to prevent degradation.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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