Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest
Swimming hole in Lewisburg, West Virginia · Creek
Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest is a creek swimming hole. It is near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Access is free. Best season: Summer months (June-August) for.
Typical season: Summer months (June-August) for
About Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest
Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest lies in West Virginia, where Varies - See Below moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
These are not the kind of places you stumble upon from a parking lot. Reaching the best of them, particularly Tea Creek, demands a three-mile hike each way through some of the most quietly spectacular Appalachian terrain in the eastern United States. That effort is exactly the point, and it's exactly why the reward feels so personal.
In summer, the forest canopy closes overhead in a dense weave of green, ferns brushing your legs as you follow the path alongside the sound of moving water. The air carries the mineral coolness of the watershed long before you reach the creek itself. Geological formations shaped by centuries of river erosion line the banks. Smooth-worn boulders and layered stone shelves that double as natural platforms for sunning after a swim. This is rich Appalachian biodiversity at its most tangible: herons picking through shallow riffles, rhododendron thickets blooming in early summer, and the occasional rustle of wildlife in the underbrush that reminds you this forest has residents far beyond the weekend visitor.
No lifeguards patrol Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest. 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
- Creek
- Water body
- Varies - see below
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Lewisburg
- State
- West Virginia
- Best season
- Summer months (June-August) for .
- Access difficulty
- Moderate; Tea Creek requires a three-mile hike each way. Suitable for active individuals and families with older children.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Teacreek campground and Day Run campground are nearby off RT 86. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Toilets available at Tea Creek Campground and Three Forks of the Williams area; primitive camping permitted near .
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer months (June-August) for .
- Access Moderate; Tea Creek requires a three-mile hike each way. Suitable for active individuals and families with older children.
- Facilities Toilets available at Tea Creek Campground and Three Forks of the Williams area; primitive camping permitted near .
- Camping nearby Teacreek campground and Day Run campground are nearby off RT 86. Primitive camping is permitted elsewhere.
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear water at Tea Creek
- Three-mile scenic hike
- Primitive camping options
- Rich Appalachian biodiversity
- Seasonal photography opportunities
- Geological formations carved by river erosion
- Primitive camping near swimming holes
- Diverse wildlife and plant life
How to get there
Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest lies in West Virginia near Lewisburg, Marlinton. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. 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.
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Starting Point: Lewisburg, WV
Begin by heading north on Route 219 (RT 219) from Lewisburg. Drive about 40 miles to reach Marlinton, WV.
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From Marlinton, continue north on Route 219/55 (RT 219/55) through the small community of Edray.
After passing through Edray, look for signs for Route 150 (Highland Scenic Highway). Turn left onto Route 150 and proceed west for about 12 miles. At the intersection with Route 86 (RT 86), turn left onto Route 86 and continue west. Tea Creek Once on Route 86, locate Tea Creek Campground within Monongahela National Forest. There is parking available at the campground. From the campground, begin your hike along the trail leading to Tea Creek. The . The trail is well-marked, but be prepared for uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the hike can take a few hours depending on your pace. Upon reaching the . Nearby, there is a primitive camping area with a lean-to structure that can be used for camping without a tent.
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Helpful notes
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Parking: Tea Creek Campground offers parking for visitors. Ensure your vehicle is parked in designated areas.
Trailhead: The trail to the . Look for trail signs to guide you. Supplies: Bring appropriate hiking gear, water, and snacks. If camping, Bring all necessary supplies for a primitive camping experience. Safety: Always exercise caution near water and on trails. Let someone know your plans if hiking alone. Have a safe visit to the Williams River !
Plan your visit
Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest works well as a day trip from Lewisburg or Marlinton. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Horseshoe Bend Swimming Spots, Tucker County Wv or browse more West Virginia creek spots in our directory. For the full list in West Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via a hiking trail from Tea Creek Campground. No fee is indicated for access, but facilities are limited to vault toilets at the campground and the Three Forks area. The swimming spots are unofficial and not maintained for recreation.
Top picks for this trip
Merrell Hydro Moc
If you want one shoe that handles the walk in, the swim, and the lounge afterward, the Hydro Moc is the easiest pick.
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Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
Buy two — a large for drying off and a small for gear — and you still spend less than one cotton beach towel.
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What to pack for Williams River Swimming Spots In Monongahela Forest
Gear we compare side by side for creek swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest?
Yes. Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest near Lewisburg and Marlinton in WV is a creek swimming spot on Varies - see below. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest 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 Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest?
Williams River Swimming Spots in Monongahela Forest is in WV within day-trip range of Lewisburg and Marlinton. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Culture & history
Located in the heart of Appalachia, this area reflects the rich history of West Virginia, with nearby towns offering glimpses into local traditions and heritage.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, avoid disrupting wildlife, and respect the natural environment to preserve its beauty.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.