One of the best parts about warm days in South Carolina is finding ways to cool off. If you’re a fan of spending time in the great outdoors, then you’ll be relieved to learn that the Palmetto State offers plenty of natural swimming holes where you can take a dip. Whether it’s the base of a waterfall or a bend in the creek, you’ll love the opportunity to splash around in these fantastic swimming holes in South Carolina. So pack your bathing suit and a towel and let the swimming adventures begin!
1. Wildcat Creek Falls
Our list of the most wonderful South Carolina swimming holes starts at Wildcat Wayside State Park. The bottom of the falls is pretty shallow, but further up there is a beautiful place to swim and a 130-foot sliding rock. The lower falls are really good for families and small children. The top can be pretty difficult to get to, but is worth the effort.
2. Carrick Creek Falls
Located in Table Rock State Park. Beautiful place to swim and the water is so nice and cool. Learn more about some other easy-to-access waterfalls in South Carolina.
3. Reedy Cove Creek
Located in Greenville County just north of Table Rock State Park. The actual location is pretty shallow, but just before you get there on the trail you will see a very deep, beautiful swimming hole. Plus, there's a beautiful South Carolina hike nearby.
4. Long Shoals Wayside Park
Located inside Poe Creek State Forest. It's a very popular spot for tourists and locals. The water is cool even on a hot day. This gorgeous natural swimming hole in South Carolina is a treat for nature lovers!
5. Parsons Mountain Recreation Area
There is a spring fed pond that is just heaven! Especially nice for families with small children. There is a little hike (not too long) before you get to the spot. Parsons Mountain Recreation Area
6. Riley Moore Falls
Located in Sumter National Forest. This place has been voted as a Primo! swimming spot with gradual entry into the water, a sandy beach, and a huge pool of water to enjoy. Learn more about hiking to this beautiful emerald lagoon in South Carolina.
7. Grapevine
At least that's what the locals call it. It's located on the Chauga River. It's a pretty huge spot of nice water and a remote area as well.
8. Chau-Ram Falls
Located in Sumter National Forest. This is short for Chauga River and Ramsey Creek. It features a nice 30-foot cascade of cool mountain water.
9. Todd Creek Falls
Located just outside of Six Mile north of Clemson, SC on Brookbend Road. It has a nice sized pool of water at the bottom of the falls although it can be a bit muddy at times. There are also some nice places to gradually enter the water instead of jumping in.
10. Cedar Shoals Creek
Located in Spartanburg County. You will find Horseshoe Falls here. Cedar Shoals Creek is popular with the locals and although it is not always deep enough to actually swim, you can definitely cool off on a hot summer day.
11. Black River
Located in Andrews, SC. There are many places here to swim, fish, and picnic. The water is nice, cool, and absolutely perfect during the summer. Black River State Park is a treat and a half for nature lovers.
12. Aiken State Park
For one of the best South Carolina swimming holes, head to Aiken State Park. This park holds a 14-acre lake that is spring fed. There are no lifeguards here so be careful and parents watch those children. However, it is really nice and there is only a small fee for entry into the park.
13. Barnwell State Park
Go swimming in the lower lake. No lifeguards, however. The admission is free to Barnwell State Park.
14. Cheraw State Park
Cheraw State Park holds Lake Juniper which is quite large. And, like a good many of our state parks, admission is free here too.
15. Oconee State Park
At 20 acres, this swimming spot is really bigger than a "hole," but what a place they have here! Not only is the water nice, but they also have low and high diving boards! There is a small entrance fee into Oconee State Park, but the swimming is free and there is a lifeguard on duty here.
What are you waiting for? Grab that brand-new swimsuit and a cooler full of drinks and sandwiches for a day of swimming and fun! Did we miss your favorite South Carolina swimming hole? Please, fill us in on all the details in the comments!
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