Almost everyone is familiar with the ocean for swimming and the beach where the sand is so hot that it burns the soles of our feet. Did you know Virginia State Parks offers more than an Atlantic Ocean beach to enjoy? We have swimming beaches in the mountains and the piedmont in lakes, rivers and creeks. Read about family-friendly swimming beaches, swimming holes and other enjoyable ways to cool off at Virginia State Parks.

So, where can you swim at Virginia State Parks? We're glad you asked.

Small lakes

Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a daily per-person fee. Weather and other issues may arise and force the suspension of guarded swimming, such as thunderstorms. When guarded swimming is unavailable, guests may swim at the beach's designated area but do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is prohibited.

• Bear Creek Lake State Park
• Douthat State Park
• Fairy Stone State Park
• Holliday Lake State Park
• Hungry Mother State Park
• Twin Lakes State Park

Large lakes

Between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, guarded beach swimming is available for a daily fee. Weather and other issues may arise and force the suspension of guarded swimming. Please be aware that thunderstorms are common in our summer months in Virginia, and the saying "when thunder roars, go indoors" is applicable.

Guests may swim at the beach's designated area when guarded swimming is unavailable (other than during thunderstorms). But are warned they will do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advisable.

• Claytor Lake State Park
• Lake Anna State Park
• Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Chesapeake Bay

There is no guarded swimming, but you can always cool off in the Chesapeake Bay at Kiptopeke State Park.

You won't find guarded swimming at these beaches. Swimmers using these areas do so at their own risk. Swimming elsewhere in these parks is not advisable.

• First Landing State Park
• Kiptopeke State Park

Pool

The popular Aquatic Recreation Center at Pocahontas State Park.

Guarded swimming is available for a daily fee between the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. Weather and other issues may arise and force the pool to close (thunderstorms, as mentioned above). Swimming elsewhere in the park is not advisable.

• Pocahontas State Park

Splash Park

 

Splash Park at Occoneechee State Park is oodles of fun.

Everyone loves random sprays of cool, refreshing water when it's warm outside. The Splash Park at Occoneechee State Park has playground equipment, two charcoal grills, a picnic shelter, restrooms and 25 parking spaces. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, it's open Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission is included in daily parking, camping and cabin fees. 

Get in the water

When the temperatures rise, it's time to cool off, and the best way to do that is to submerge yourself. Many of our Virginia State Parks have great places to chill out in the water.

 

SUP on the Potomac River at Westmoreland State Park.

Rent a canoe at Hungry Mother State Park.

Rent a kayak to paddle the river and creeks at Belle Isle State Park.

Rent something

Some parks do not have a specific swimming area, but visitors can get out on the water via tube, SUP, paddle boat, Jonboat, canoe, kayak or pontoon/ski boat. You can rent these at various state parks across Virginia.

New River Trail State Park has a seasonal service where you can rent a canoe, kayak or tube, and a shuttle service to pick you back up. All tubing is subject to weather and river conditions and is unguided. View this flyer for more information.

Many of our parks also offer seasonal guided canoe, kayak, and standup paddleboard programs that include basic training and a guided experience with certified staff. Use our programs and events search tool, and you can filter by the park and/or date. 

Free Swimming

Pick a park to cool off this summer. Swim for free if you stay the night in a campground or cabin.

Did you know that guarded swimming is free for overnight guests? If you're not staying the night, there will be a fee per person to use a guarded swimming beach. When swimming is at your own risk, there is no charge. Please remember if the guards come on duty while you are there, you will have to pay at that point. 

Learn more about camping or cabin rentals. Or you can call 800-933-7275 during regular business hours.

Pack up the family, some strong SPF sunscreen, cool shades, colorful beach towels, a picnic lunch and the biggest and broadest sun hat, then head to a Virginia State Park near you this summer.

FIND YOUR PARK