We all had our favorite swimming holes growing up, from sneaking into a neighbor's pool while they were at work to the cool rushing water of a local creek.

When we moved to the mountains of Virginia, I had a terrible time trying to locate a public swimming pool. The community pools were membership-only and had waiting lists. The lakes were seemingly private property only, but with two young daughters and the heat being turned up, I was at my wit's end and desperate to find a place to cool off.

Then I came across Virginia State Parks online, knowing I had hit the jackpot. I found some awesome swimming beaches about an hour's drive.

Allow me to share a few of my favorites:

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE STATE PARK

There is plenty of parking, so pack up the gear and head over Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The main lifeguard tower is always manned during open swimming hours 

Get your swimming band here after paying for the swimming beach fee

This seasonal guarded swimming beach at Smith Mountain Lake State Park is perfect in the hot summertime. There is a concession area and bathhouse. A lovely view of the lake as the pontoons and other boats cruise past. The park's 500-foot beach is one of only two public beaches on the large and very popular Smith Mountain Lake. 

The tower has a lifeguard on duty. When you pay to swim at a guarded beach, your fee goes toward this.

DOUTHAT STATE PARK

When the beach is unguarded (like before it opens each day), you may still use it at your own discretion.

Use at your own risk, but swimming is never allowed during inclement weather.

Having fun in the sun can also lead to dehydration and exhaustion; parents and caretakers still need to be extra cautious in the summer months, even with a lifeguard on duty.

Restrooms and snack bar are available near the swimming beach, so your job is to have loads of fun

The swimming beach at Douthat State Park is in a secluded cove and adjacent to the boat rental area. Where you can even rent a SUP or water-bike. There is a concession/store with a bathhouse in case you want a hot dog and cold drink or forgot to bring sunblock.

Free Wi-Fi is available near the bathhouse. Learn more about Douthat State Park.

FAIRY STONE STATE PARK

Pick the perfect spot to dig in and enjoy a hot summer's day at the swimming beach.

Bring the chairs, beach blanket, towels, sunscreen, snacks and water for a fun day at this mountain beach.

Fairy Stone State Park swimming beach can be virtually deserted midweek, and the earlier you arrive when swimming opens, the more you will have the place to yourself. The beach water playground is cordoned off and available for little ones to enjoy. There is a concessionaire here for snacks, beach items and also restrooms.

If you get tired of lying in the sun, rent a paddle boat, kayak, canoe or row boat to tour Fairy Stone Lake. Since it is a smaller lake, there are no gas-powered motorboats allowed on this lake.

Learn more about Fairy Stone State Park.

WHEN DO THEY OPEN?

BEACHES ARE OPEN BETWEEN THE SATURDAY OF MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND AND LABOR DAY

Memorial Day is the official weekend opener for Summer fun at Virginia State Parks. While camping and cabins may be used before this time, this is the date chosen for swimming at our parks.

WHAT IS THE COST?

Fees for beach swimming apply only when the beach is guarded; click here for swimming fees. You can also purchase a season swimming pass that includes the parking fee or a swimming coupon book (if you plan to utilize the park's beach often this year). 

UNGUARDED SWIMMING

When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach's designated area but do so at their own risk. There is no fee for this. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advised.

WEATHER

If there is inclement weather, the beach is closed to everyone. You will be given a swimming rain check to come back and swim another day. If you are not sure if they are open or not, by all means, call ahead and ask the park directly. 

FREE SWIMMING

Cabin and camping guests can swim for free (one swimming pass for each occupant for each night), and you will receive daily swimming passes when you check-in.

STAY TUNED

Read Part 2, where I share three more fantastic swimming beaches on lakes.

FIND YOUR BEACH