NEW YORK SWIMMING HOLES
(86 PLACES)
UPDATED 5/2009

Swimmingholes.info

Swimmingholes.info

AU SABLE AREA [5 PLACES] (AUSA)	NO PHOTO TO LOCAL AREA MAP TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	PLATTSBURGH, AU SABLE FORKS, JAY, UPPER JAY,
STATE	NY
WATER	Ausable River
TYPE	River
DESCRIPTION	Swimming holes/pools in the Ausable River. See below.
AREAS	Adirondack Park
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	Picnic Tables nearby
ACTIVITIES	Swimming
PHONE	None
CAMPING	Unknown
BATHING SUITS	Unknown
DIRECTIONS	From way north on I-87, get off at Exit 34, Keeseville. Go south on RT 9N to Au Sable Forks, then: THE DAM [DAMT]: Continue south on RT 9N into Au Sable Forks. Turn west (right) on Mill Rd. (County Route 9T). You will be traveling along the south shore of the Au Sable River. When you get to the dam (before Murphy Rd.) (you may need to ask locally) there is a swimming place upstream of the dam. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=44.44124, lon=-73.69054(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP Uncertain. Not verified. Updated 12/13/2002. COVERED BRIDGE [COVE]: A popular local swimming hole by a falls and historic covered bridge in Jay. Lots of rocks and flat ledges above falls, many deep swimming holes, slide down falls. LINK TO PHOTO. As of summer 2008, this area has been made into a park but the swimming hole is still here. To get here: Return to RT 9N south and continue couth on 9N to the town of Jay. In Jay, turn east (left) on CR 22 (I think) to the covered bridge over the East Branch Ausable River. The swimming place is here near the bridge. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=44.37286, lon=-73.72500(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/13/2002. Family-Friendly Walden's Pond Road Trip Dip WILMINGTON GORGE [WILM]: Just north of where the West Branch Ausable River crosses under RT 86 is a high fall (AUSABLE FALLS - DO NOT SWIM AT THE FALLS - FATAL), but below the falls there is a gorge, then a low falls that dumps into a large deep swimming hole. There are two cliffs to jump off of into this pool. One (30ft) near the the falls, and another (20/10ft) on the other side somewhat up from the falls. To get here: Where RT 9N meets RT 86, go west on RT 86 to where it crosses the West Branch Ausable River (near Wilmington). There is a small parking area right at the bridge crossing on the south side of RT 86 about 100 yards northwest of the Gorge. Trails through the woods are well worn but require careful footing due to an abundance of roots and branches. The trails lead down to the river where bathers and picnickers stake out spots on the boulders, and fishermen cast into the small rapids. Near the base of the falls a deeper pool allows for a good swim. (Other directions I have are: From the parking area, walk north up the road along the river (Fox Farm Rd.?) to a large dirt area on the right (where some people park their cars), and then follow the trail that starts there down to the river (a few hundred feet)). Not sure which directions are best. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=44.39342, lon=-73.81003(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 11/12/2004. BIG POOL [BIGP]: Return to RT 9N and continue south to Stone House Rd. on the west (right) side of 9N before you get to Upper Jay. Park here at Stone House. Walk across RT 9N and follow the property line east about 500 feet to Wedding Corner and go down the steps at the river (if the water is low enough). This is Big Pool, a swimming area.LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=44.35713, lon=-73.74651(source: DeLorme ) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 12/13/2002. THE ROCK [ROCT]: About .1 miles SOUTH of Stonehouse Road on RT 9N, turn east on Beach Spot drive. Here there is a beach and swimming hole called "The Rock". Pretty confident. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=44.35207, lon=-73.75441(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Not verified. Updated 12/13/2002.
CONFIDENCE	See above
VERIFIED	No
LAST UPDATE	12/13/2002

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BUTTERMILK FALLS S. P. (BUTT)	PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3 TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond
TOWNS	ITHACA
LAT, LON [N83/W84]	lat=42.41125, lon=-76.51300(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE	NY
WATER	Buttermilk Creek
TYPE	Falls
DESCRIPTION	Official swimming in large, deep pool at bottom of Buttermilk Falls. Lifeguard, diving board. Close to highway; not as scenic as Treman (see Treman). Signs say "NO SWIMMING" in stream in gorge above falls, but there is evidence that some do swim there.
AREAS	Buttermilk Falls S.P.
SANCTION	Official in pool below falls
FEE	Yes
FACILITIES	Toilet, Picnic tables, changing room, showers
ACTIVITIES	Swimming, diving (in pool below falls)
PHONE	(607)-273-5761
CAMPING	Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS	Required in pool below falls
DIRECTIONS	From Ithaca, go SW on RT 96/13 about 3 miles, follow signs to Buttermilk Falls S.P.
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	Yes
LAST UPDATE	8/31/1999

SWIMMING HOLES EAST

CANAJOHARIE GORGE AREA [2 LOCATIONS] (CANJ)	PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	UTICA, AMSTERDAM, CANAJOHARIE
STATE	NY
WATER	CANAJOHARIE River
TYPE	River/Falls
DESCRIPTION	Various swimming holes along a spectacular gorge area. Layered slate-like rocks make flat surfaces near water. There are two access points here. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
AREAS	None
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	None
FACILITIES	At Wintergreen Park: Picnic tables, toilets, volleyball, horseshoes, ballfield
ACTIVITIES	Swimming, jumping
PHONE	None
CAMPING	None at site
BATHING SUITS	Customary
DIRECTIONS	From Albany, take I-90 west to Exit 29 (Canajoharie). Take RT 10 south a short distance then east (left) on RT 5S to the first right turn onto Cunningham Rd. Continue uphill on Cunningham Rd.(keeping right to stay on Cunningham Rd.), then: BOILING POT [BOIL]: This is in Floral Park. Unique "Pothole" formation at park within village of Cahanjoharie. Has rope swing and jumping possibilities. Water often warm due to shallow shale bed within canyon. There may be other swimming places upstream and downstream of here. PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO . To get here from Cunningham Rd., go right onto Moyer St. (CR 93) then left onto Floral St.. The park and swimming hole are at the end of Floral St.. LAT, LON [N83/W84]lat=42.89858, lon=-74.57197(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 4/30/2009 CANAJOHARIE FALLS [CANA]: A beautiful, high falls in Canajoharie Gorge, well upstream of the Floral Park area. PHOTO . Swimming at the bottom, jumping from low rocks along the sides, BUT CAUTION: DO NOT JUMP FROM THE TOP OF THE FALLS, EVEN IF YOU SEE OTHERS DOING SO - PEOPLE HAVE DIED JUMPING HERE . It may or may not be possible to walk upstream from Floral Park to get there, uncertain. One could hike downstream from Wintergreen Park about .75 miles to these falls. There are "no swimming" signs posted at Wintergreen Park but people are said to swim here regardless. Police enforce traffic and drinking rules at Wintergreen Park very vigorously, but perhaps not so much the no swimming rule. To get to Wintergreen Park, continue on Cunningham Rd. (careful not to take any forks)to the stop sign. Continue straight onto Carlisle Road. Where Carlisle Rd. goes sharply to the left, keep straight onto Old Sharon Rd. Go into Wintergreen Park to the lowest level, near the creek, then walk downstream along the creek. Along this walk, there are several swimming holes in layers of the shale PHOTO , PHOTO . The falls are at about .75 miles downstream. LAT, LON [N83/W84]lat=42.89256, lon=-74.56539(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 4/30/2009
CONFIDENCE	Pretty confident
VERIFIED	Partially
LAST UPDATE	4/22/2009

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CHAUTAUQUA GORGE (CHAU)	PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE A Road Trip Dip
TOWNS	BUFFALO, ERIE (PA), WESTFIELD
LAT, LON [N83/W84]	lat=42.25181, lon=-79.57414(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE	NY
WATER	Chautauqua Creek
TYPE	Creek/Falls
DESCRIPTION	Chautauqua Gorge is a very scenic site with a clothing-optional area located near Westfield in the westernmost part of New York. There are several small waterfalls which are very refreshing after hiking on a warm day. There are also small pools for soaking or swimming a few strokes and level space along the creek for sunbathing. Sandals are recommended as you may have to cross the creek a number of times along the way. CAUTION We received this email report "A 10 year old boy was hospitalized recently (in the last couple of years) for E.coli poisoning contracted from the chatauqua gorge. you may want to tell your readers not to drink the water." Maybe no longer a danger, but keep your head out of the water to be safe. CAUTION We received this email caution:"The chautauqua gorge is a great place to visit, but you should warn your visitors about climbing there. Quite a few people have been injured and killed trying to climb up the loose shale walls of the gorge. Almost every year the local fire departments are called out to rescue people who are stuck too.(Imagine how embarrasing that would be!!) NO PLACE IN THE GORGE IS SAFE FOR CLIMBING! Come visit & have fun, but stick to the paths or the floor of the gorge ."
AREAS	Chautauqua Gorge
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	None
ACTIVITIES	Skinny dipping, Swimming
PHONE	None
CAMPING	Primtive camping in the gorge
BATHING SUITS	Optional (very)
DIRECTIONS	From the New York State Thruway (I-90) in far western NY, take the Westfield exit (Exit 60). Follow RT 394 a short distance south to the center of Westfield. (see also, "another way", below) Turn right onto RT 20. After crossing a bridge, turn left at the first street, Chestnut Street (county road 21). Follow C.R. 21 south for about 3.3 miles and then turn left onto Ogden Road. Follow Ogden road 1.5 miles and then turn left onto Taylor Road (a gravel road). Follow Taylor Road a short distance to the dead end sign where there is a small parking area on the left. A very rough road continues down into a deep valley. Follow this until you reach the creek, then turn left (downstream). Soon you will see a sign painted on a rock saying "nudist area next one mile". From there, if you follow the creek, you will pass several small waterfalls until you get to Skinny Dip Falls. FIRST HOLE,SECOND HOLE, THIRD HOLE , ANOTHER SPOT. ANOTHER PLACE: An easier way to get into the gorge, further south, i.e., upstream, of the way above. There is a very nice, deep swimming hole right at the bottom of this trail but it is hard to walk up or downstream from here unless you walk in the creek. PHOTO,PHOTO, PHOTO. To get here, stay on RT 394 through Westfield. When you get to Mayville, turn west (right) on RT 430. Go about 1.5 miles then turn west (right) on Hannum Rd.. Continue on Hannum Rd. about 3 miles (turns into gravel) to where there is a picnic area and some primitive (no tables, no water, porta-potties) camping. Park and hike pretty steeply downhill about 1/3 mile into the gorge at this point. The best swimming hole is to the right at the bottom of this trail. Park at: LAT/LON: lat=42.23976, lon=-79.58730(source: measured) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	Yes
LAST UPDATE	9/6/2009

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FILLMORE GLEN S. P. (FILL)	PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3 TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond A Road Trip Dip
TOWNS	SYRACUSE, AUBURN, MORAVIA
LAT, LON [N83/W84]	lat=42.702, lon=-76.389 (source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE	NY
WATER	Dry Creek
TYPE	Creek
DESCRIPTION	Very nice, small swimming area created by a dam across the creek somewhat downstream from a waterfall. 6-7 feet deep, lifeguards, jumping (no diving). Stairs to enter water - no beach but grassy area for sunning. Great family place - for older kids who can swim and don't need beach entrance.
AREAS	Fillmore Glen S.P.
SANCTION	Official - lifeguards
FEE	Yes. $7 fee per car, free if you park outside the park and walk in (it is not a great distance to walk in)
FACILITIES	Toilet, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES	Swimming, jumping
PHONE	(315)-497-0130
CAMPING	Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS	Required
DIRECTIONS	from I-81 north of Cortland at HOmer, take RT 90 west to Locke then RT 38 north toward Moravia. See signs to park just south of Moravia.
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	Yes, 7/2006
LAST UPDATE	7/31/2006

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KAATERSKILL AREA [2 PLACES] (KAAT)	PHOTOS BELOW TO CATSKILL LOCAL AREA MAP TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	KINGSTON, SAUGCERTIES, PALENVILLE
STATE	NY
WATER	Kaaterskill Creek
TYPE	Creek/Falls
DESCRIPTION	See below.
AREAS	Catskill Preserve
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	Unknown
ACTIVITIES	Swimming
PHONE	None
CAMPING	Nearby at North South Lake State Park
BATHING SUITS	See below
DIRECTIONS	From Kingston, go north on I-87 to Exit 20. Go north on RT 32 for 6 miles then north on RT 32A then west on RT 23A. Then: KAATERSKILL CREEK [KAAC]: Large swimming hole at the base of a tumbling falls with many other smaller pools and water channels to explore upstream. NOTE: I have information that there is private property around this location - please respect any private property in this vicnity. To get here: on RT 23A, 1.4 miles west the junction of RT 32A and RT 23A in Palenville, there is a large pullout on the south (left) side of the road. (Apparently called "Palenville" by locals.) Park here and continue walking west on the road, along Kaaterskill Creek. This is a VERY narrow, winding and busy road. Be extremely careful as the road shoulder is narrow. When you reach the bridge over Kaaterskill Creek, take a left and follow the rocky path down to the swimming area. Bathing suits unknown. PHOTO FROM ABOVE, PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 , PHOTO 4. Verified 7/02. Very confident. Updated 10/10/05. LAT, LON [N83/W84]lat=42.17660, lon= -74.04739(source: measured ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Road Trip Dip KAATERSKILL FALLS [KAAF]: Kaaterskill Falls are the tallest falls in New York. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3 , PHOTO 4 , PHOTO 5 , PHOTO 6 , PHOTO 7 . There are two ways to get there: BOTH WAYS ARE DANGEROUS - STAY AWAY FROM THE EDGE OF THE TRAIL NEAR THE FALLS. PEOPLE HAVE FALLEN AND BEEN INJURED AND KILLED. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=42.19342, lon=-74.06328(source:DeLorme ) (accuracy: exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP WAY 1: Continue west on RT 23A and, before you get to the town of Haines Falls, you cross a bridge over a falls/creek then, as you climb a steep hill, there is a very large parking area on the south (left) side of the road. Park here and walk back down the road (careful, it is a narrow road with not much of a pedestrain shoulder) cross over the bridge and take the trail up to the falls. It is an easy hike to the BOTTOM of the Kaaterskill Falls, but there is no swimming place here. The swimming place is at the MID LEVEL of the falls, half way up the falls, where there is a huge pool. Bathing suits optional, depending on crowd. IT IS A TOUGH, STEEP CLIMB ON SOMETIMES LOOSE ROCKS TO GET TO THE MID LEVEL WHERE THE SWIMMING PLACE IS. The State does not advise continuing above this level, as some have fallen and been hurt. IF YOU DO CONTINUE UP, DO NOT TAKE THE APPARENT SHORT CUT PATH (on the immediate right side of the falls, looking at the falls from below), IT IS VERY DANGEROUS. TAKE THE LONGER FOOT PATH (also on the right side, but farther away). THIS PATH IS ALSO VERY STEEP BUT NOT QUITE SO DANGEROUS. Verified 7/02. Very confident. WAY 2: Continue west on RT 23A, past the Kaaterskill Falls, to the town of Haines Falls and turn right on RT 18. Head toward North-South Lake S. P.. About .5 miles BEFORE you get to the entrance to the State Park, see Scutt Road on the right. Turn right and park at the bottom of that road. (The State is discouraging this access to the falls because people have fallen and been hurt or killed. This trail is not maintained for this reason and you MUST BE VERY CAREFUL if you go this way.) It's not a hard trail but it is all up hill for the hike out. From South Lake Road park in the small turn-off and yellow gate and walk past the sewer plant (in about 200 yards) and continue past there till the trail splits. (10 minutes?) If you go right on the less traveled path signs will say "leaving park property" but you are still within the "preserve" so continue a few minutes till you see a small foot bridge on your left. Over that bridge and go right for 10 minutes to the "sign in" point. Continue down that trail till you hear the waterfall. At this point you can wander down the hill to the top of the falls (not a well marked trail but few enough trees to see the water) or continue another 10 - 15 minutes and come out below the falls. (again, not a well marked trail cut-off but visible). This trail is very steep but away from the edge and comes out well below the falls.... too far below for some I guess. There is a memorial plaque along the trail to Scutt Road with the name of a Hartwick student who perished falling over the edge a few years ago. Not verified. Pretty confident. Updated 12/10/2002.
CONFIDENCE	Varies- see above
VERIFIED	Varies- see above
LAST UPDATE	12/10/2002

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MAX SHAUL AREA [1 PLACE] (MAXS)	PHOTOS BELOW TO STATEMAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	ALBANY, COBLESKILL, MIDDLEBURUGH
STATE	NY
WATER	Varies-see below
TYPE	Creek
DESCRIPTION	Swimming places near Max Shaul S.P.. For details, see DRIECTIONS below.
AREAS	Nearby is Max Shaul S. P.
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	Nearby at Max Shaul S. P.
ACTIVITIES	Swimming
PHONE	None
CAMPING	None at site. Camping at Max Shaul S.P.; .25 mile south on RT 30.
BATHING SUITS	Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS	From Albany, take I-90 west then I-88 west to Central Bridge, then take RT 30 south through Middleburgh and Fultonham. Then: MAX SHAUL [MAXL]: Deep pool at bend in Schoharie Creek. Sandy shore, rocky stream bed, rock ledges on opposite shore. Bathing suits customary (at least in daytime). PHOTO of parking , PHOTO of path , PHOTO , PHOTO . All facilities and camping nearby at Max Shaul S.P.; .25 mile south on RT 30. Very confident. Verified 7/02. Updated 10/10/05. LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=42.55839, lon=-74.40250(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here continue south on RT 30 then RT 30 will cross the Schoharie Creek and a state rest area will be on the right. (If you get to Max Shaul S. P. you have gone .25 mile too far.) Just after you pass the rest area, at end of the guard rail on the right, you will see a dirt track. Park off the side of RT 30. It is a one minute walk to the creek. Swimming places are right here in the creek. A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond A Road Trip Dip
CONFIDENCE	Varies-see above
VERIFIED	Varies-see above
LAST UPDATE	10/13/2005

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MINNEWASKA AREA [3 PLACES] (MINA)	PHOTOS BELOW TO CATSKILL LOCAL AREA MAP TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	POUGHKEEPSIE, NEW PALTZ, MINNEWASKA
STATE	NY
WATER	Varies-see below
TYPE	Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION	Swimming places in the Minnewaska S. P./ Mohonk Preserve area. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS	Minnewaska S. P./ Mohonk Preserve
SANCTION	Varies-see below
FEE	Varies-see below
FACILITIES	Varies-see below
ACTIVITIES	Varies-see below
PHONE	Unknown
CAMPING	None at site
BATHING SUITS	Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS	I-87 to Exit 18 (New Paltz). At exit go west on RT 299 thru New Paltz, over bridge and in about 6 miles from New Paltz come to the end of RT 299 at RT 44/55. Turn west (right) on RT 44/55, then: NOTE: We do not list this place but a visitor wanted us to alert visitors to a problem here in summer 2009 since many persons apparently do go here: "I’m deeply concerned about a swimming hole that’s not on your list. I was there this weekend and discovered someone had allowed their dog to deposit feces in a stagnant pond on rocks right in the main swimming area, just waiting to wash into the swim water with the early summer rains. It’s a health disaster waiting to happen, and is a highly popular swim hole, featured on YouTube. The local health authority has refused to take any action as it’s not an official swimming hole and is “most likely” on private land. Would you care to alert your members about this hazard? The site is on Towpath Road, Accord, NY, just north of the Shawangunk Ridge (Minnewaska State Park) between Alligerville and Accord, on the Peterskill River. Avoid at all costs!" SPLIT ROCK HOLE [SPLH]:A unique swimming place in Coxing Kill. Creek falls into small gorge in solid rock, runs out other end into pool. Can swim in gorge and in pool and downstream. Can jump into gorge. Bathing suits required. A significant parking fee is required (around $8 to $9). Porta-John in parking area. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=41.73961, lon=-74.20356(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Go over the mountain on RT 44/55 then turn right at the 2nd road on the right after you go over the top of the mountain (Clove Rd., about 2 miles from RT 299 intersection.). Keep to the right on this dirt road, over bridges, until you get to the large, manned, parking area on the left. Pay fee here and walk very short distance down path to swimming place. Family-Friendly Walden's Pond Road Trip Dip Also, if you walk across the bridge here at Split Rock, just past the bridge on the left there is a tree limb stairway. Go down and follow path for about 10 minute walk. Some trees are marked with yellow paint so it's easy to follow. There is a sign that you may encounter nude bathers on a tree. You will know when you get there. Not a very deep swimming hole, but wading and sunning are nice here and bathing suits are said to be a personal choice but rarely worn (optional). Very confident. Verified. Updated 11/11/2003. LAKE MINNEWASKA [LAKM]: This description from a fan: "Lake Minnewaska: It's a very long story but with some good news finally. This used to be prime swimming hole territory until the mid 1980's. Marriott wanted to buy the whole area to drain for a luxury conference center but intense opposition from many sectors enabled NY State to buy the whole area instead. (Original owners couldn't afford to keep it.) Unfortunately, as some of us had foreseen, the State then outlawed swimming due to fears of lawsuits. This year (2002), a pilot program has been established to permit limited swimming in one area to (adult)members of the newly-formed MDSA club, who take a swimming test for admission. The scene is still unfolding and no one knows yet what the deal will be for future years. For information about the club and swim test, see MINNEWASKA SWIMMERS CLUB. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=41.7252, lon=-74.2354(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Go over the mountain on RT 44/55 then continue past the turn off for Split Rock Hole. At about 5 miles from the RT 299 intersection, turn south (left) on Hamilton Point Trail. Follow this to Lake Minnewaska S. P. area. The swimming beach is on the lower eastern side of the lake. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 11/11/2003. STONY KILL FALLS [STOK]: Spectacular, 87 foot high falls - but the swimming hole is ABOVE the falls, not below. Up there is a pool behind a rock dam that is a traditional clothing-optional place. Wikipedia info . To get here: From Hamilton Rd, above, continue west on RT 44 about 4.25 miles more and turn left on Lower Granite Rd. (there may be an error here in the Wikipedia directons - they call it Minnewaska Trail Rd.) From the Wikipeida listing:"Take the first left on Rockhaven Road and go a few miles, winding uphill. Near the end of Rockhaven Rd. bear left onto Shaft 2A road. (The road is marked by a very small piece of wood with "shaft 2A" written on it in small black letters.) Follow it to the end. There is no parking area but the area at the end of the road immediately before a gate can accommodate two cars." From here, follow the "Hiking Guide" information in the Wikipedia listing link above. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 10/31/2007.
CONFIDENCE	Varies- see above
VERIFIED	Varies- see above
LAST UPDATE	10/31/2007

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PHOENICIA AREA [2 PLACES] (PHOE)	PHOTOS BELOW TO CATSKILL LOCAL AREA MAP TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	KINGSTON, PHOENICIA, BIG INDIAN, OLIVEREA
STATE	NY
WATER	Varies-see below
TYPE	Varies-see below
DESCRIPTION	Swimming and tubing places in the Catskills near Phoenicia. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS	Catskill Park
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	Varies-see below
FACILITIES	In Phoenicia
ACTIVITIES	Tubing, Swimming
PHONE	Unknown
CAMPING	Very nearby at Woodland Valley State Park
BATHING SUITS	Customary
DIRECTIONS	From I-87, get off at Exit 19, Kingston exit, RT 28. Go northwest on RT 28 about 25 miles to Phoenicia. Then: ESOPUS CREEK [ESOP]: Popular tubing place in Esopus Creek right in Phoenicia. PHOTO. Several outfitters or bring your own tubes. Some rapids, some quiet sections. Ask for an outfitter that lets you start right at the dam rapid (some don't). Life jackets seem to be required. Camp very nearby at Woodland Valley State Park A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond Here are some suggestions from a user: "The commercial outfitters offer 2 sections of river: upstream from Phoenicia & downstream. Upstream, they take you by bus & you float back. Downstream, you float from town & take train back Kids like the train, it's kind of cute. Upstream has more current and 1 significant rapid. Downstream is much slower floating. As I recall, there was maybe 1 rather small swimmable section the entire way and it's not road accessible. Otherwise, the river is basically too shallow. If you use a tube without the board on the bottom, you end up scraping (your) bottom much of the way. The entire river is dam controlled. On release days, it's said to be quite different but I've never experienced it personally. The outfitters know the release schedules, as do the local canoe & kayak clubs (and fishermen). Note that the water comes from below the dam so it's colder than you might expect (at all times)." LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=42.08097, lon=-74.31533(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified. Updated 3/10/04. OTTER FALLS[OTTE]: In amongst rare Catskills virgin forest of Hemlock, Otter Falls cascades down about 30 feet to a large deep bowl that measures about 20-30 feet in diameter with a depth of about 6-8 feet at its center. It is on state land with a small side trail that leads to it. Otter falls is only about .5 mile from the popular Giant Ledge trail parking area (hairpin turn) which makes it an excellent stop after a hot sweaty hike. PHOTO 1 ,PHOTO 2 , PHOTO 3. To get here from RT 28 in Phoenicia: Continue west on Rt 28 through Shandaken to Big Indian. Turn south (left) on RT 47 and go through Oliverea. Go about 3.5 miles past Oliverea to a telephone pole with mile post #167 1/2 on it. Other things to look for are the state land signs (the yellow ones with the DEC logo). This state land is the only State land on the west side of Route 47 in Big Indian Valley. (If you come to the "hairpin turn", an extremely sharp right hand turn, on RT 47, you have gone about .5 mile too far.) The parking area and access to the trail is actually a little complicated to find. There is no designated parking area but once you park along the road, the trail is clear and very short. There is very limited parking at the trailhead; probably enough for once car. A good suggestion might be to park at the Giant Ledge train parking area and walk down the hill to the swimming hole, using the telephone pole numbers to find the path. It may take a few passes to find but eventually, the cascade and pool is very very easy to find. LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=42.0314, lon=-74.4201(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact). LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 10/31/07.
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	Varies-see above
LAST UPDATE	10/31/2007

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SARANAC LAKES AREA [6 PLACES] (SARL)	PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	SARANAC LAKE, TUPPER LAKE
STATE	NY
WATER	Varies-see below
TYPE	Lake
DESCRIPTION	Swimming holes on the Saranac Lakes - most only acessible by boat. The Saranac Lakes include Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac Lakes. Weller Pond is an often-associated water-body connected to Middle Saranac Lake. Between Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes is a self-operated lock (an operator is often on duty during summer daytime hours).
AREAS	Adirondack Forest Preserve
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	None
ACTIVITIES	Swimming, boating, hiking
PHONE	none
CAMPING	There are 20 primitive first-come first-serve free primitive campsites on Upper Saranac Lake. The state runs the Saranac Lake Islands campground - this campground has 87 fee-based primitive campsites (reserve at www.reserveamerica.com) spread across Lower Saranac Lake, Middle Saranac Lake and Weller Pond. The state also runs the Fish Creek Pond campground (just off Upper Saranac Lake) - this campground has 355 campsites and accommodates all equipment from tents to 40' RVs.
BATHING SUITS	Varies-see below
DIRECTIONS	From the center of the town of Saranac Lake, (set your odometer) take RT 3 west, then: AMPERSAND BEACH [AMPE]: This is the only of these places that is accessible without a boat. Ampersand Beach is a beautiful half-mile long beach on Middle Saranac Lake. It is located near the popular trailhead to Ampersand Mountain and climbers often stop here for a refreshing swim after their descent. The waters are very shallow here - one can walk out 100 yards and be only waist deep - an excellent beach for young children. Swimsuits are customary during daylight hours. PHOTO . LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.2550, lon=-74.2466(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From the center of the town of Saranac Lake, take RT 3 West for about 8.25 miles. Park at a parking area on the north (right) side of the road, just across the road from the Ampersand Mountain trailhead. Follow trail from the left side of the parking area to the north over a half mile long trail to Ampersand Beach on Middle Saranac Lake. This beach is also boat/canoe accessible from the state boat launch on NYS Route 3. From the state boat launch, head upriver (left) into Lower Saranac Lake. Then head westward into Middle Saranac Lake, passing through the self-serve locks. The beach is located along the southern half of the west shore of Middle Saranac Lake. The distance from the state boat launch is approximately six miles. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008. A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond PICNIC POINT [PICN]: On Lower Saranac Lake, this is accessible by boat/canoe only. A nice place to stop off for lunch and a swim. It is right off one of the Adirondack classic canoe trails. The rock ledge is only about a foot above the water level, but the water here is deep. Because of the amount of nearby boat and canoe traffic, swimsuits are required. PHOTO . LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.2953, lon=-74.1985 (source: measured by another) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From the middle of the town of Saranac Lake take RT 3 west about 4 miles to the well marked state boat launch facility (16 miles east of Tupper Lake, and 4 miles west of Saranac Lake on RT 3.). In your boat, head upriver (left) into Lower Saranac Lake. Once you reach Lower Saranac Lake, the rock ledge is just west of here. This spot can be identified by the "Picnic Area" sign. The distance from the state boat launch is approximately one mile. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008. BLUFF ISLAND [BLUF]: On Lower Saranac Lake, this is accessible by boat/canoe only. The prominent feature of Bluff Island is the 80-foot granite face that rises almost perpendicularly from the water. It is too dangerous to jump from here. However on the backside of the island is a much smaller 10-foot plunge. Picnic tables and a very small sandy landing make this a family friendly stop. The very small sandy area affords kids a place to wade and swim. This is a fun island to explore, but if climbing Bluff Point for the view, keep all children very well supervised. PHOTO , PHOTO . As this area is rather popular with families, swimsuits are recommended (and customary). LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.2980, lon=-74.1992 (source: measured by another) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From the state boat launch on RT 3 (above), head upriver (left) into Lower Saranac Lake. Upon entering Lower Saranac Lake, the Bluff Point of Bluff Island is the obvious rock face dead ahead. Proceed around to the left side of the island to a sandy landing near the low rock cliff. The distance from the state boat launch is approximately one mile. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008. A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond ROCKY LEDGE [ROCL]: On Lower Saranac Lake, this is accessible by boat/canoe only. Take a plunge from this rocky ledge into the deep cool waters on this classic Adirondack Lake. Although this swimming spot is on a major canoe route, it is quite private because paddlers hurriedly pass through this part of Lower Saranac Lake. Except for these paddlers, an occasional camper or early morning/late evening fisherman, this part of Lower Saranac Lake is much less active than the other portion. This rocky point is popular among Boy Scouts and other outdoor groups because it is on one of the classic Adirondack canoe trails. Most visitors linger only long enough for a quick lunch/snack and a dip. This rock ledge is accessible only by boat or canoe, and because of its isolation, most swimmers skinny dip here. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.2859, lon=-74.2238(source: measured by another) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: From the state boat launch on RT 3 (above), head upriver (left) into Lower Saranac Lake. Upon entering Lower Saranac Lake, head west. This sloped rocky point is located on the north shore of the west end of Lower Saranac Lake, between campsites 45 and 46. Campsite 45 is at the narrow section of the lake. Campsite 46 is on a rocky point. This swimming spot is on a smaller rocky point just before campsite 46. You can easily identify this location by a "No Camping" sign. There are hooks anchored into the rock here for you to tie up your boat/canoe. The distance from the state boat launch is approximately three miles.. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008. WELLER POND [WELL]: This is accessible by boat/canoe only. Proficient map skills and suitable maps are required. A beautiful remote pond and this rock ledge is a wonderful place to stop for lunch and a swim. It is not far from the terminus of the less-used canoe carry (portage) between Upper Saranac Lake and Weller Pond. The rock ledge is only about a foot above the water level, but the water here is deep. Solitude is almost always assured here, so skinny dipping is customary. PHOTO . LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.2842, lon=-74.2849(source: measured by another) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: Proficient map skills and suitable maps are required. From the state boat launch on RT 3 (above), head upriver into Lower Saranac Lake. Then head westward into Middle Saranac Lake, passing through the self-serve locks. Head into the northernmost bay of Middle Saranac Lake and look for the Weller Pond outlet stream. The rock ledge is located in the northwestern part of Weller Pond. It is the obvious bare rock area on the western shore just north of Tick Island (campsite #84). The distance from the state boat launch is approximately ten miles. Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008. TOMS ROCK [TOMR]: On Upper Saranac Lake, this is accessible by boat/canoe only. Tom's Rock (or Tommy's Rock, as the USGS map calls it) on Upper Saranac Lake is great for jumping. People go there just for that. The jump is anywhere from 8-12 feet, depending on where you stand (run). Also on Upper Saranac Lake, is Green Island. On the south side of Green Island, there is reportedly a rope swing. Bathing suits: unknown. LAT, LON [N83/W84]: lat=44.3376, lon=-74.3196(source: measured by another) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. To get here: This is accessible by boat/canoe only. Drive west on RT 3 from the boat ramp (above) to the junction with RT 30 - before the town of Tupper Lake. Drive north on RT 30 for 14.1 miles. Turn right onto Back Bay Road towards Saranac Inn (Back Bay Road is approximately 2 miles past the entrance to Fish Creek Pond State Campground). The state boat launch facility on Upper Saranac Lake is about a half mile down Back Bay Road. Launch your boat/canoe here. Tom's Rock is less than a quarter mile south of the state boat launch. Green Island is approximately another half mile further south from Tom's Rock. Green Island can be identified by the location of campsites #2 and #3 - these are first-come first-served no-fee campsites.Very confident. Not verified. Updated 1/21/2008.
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	no
LAST UPDATE	1/21/2008

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STONY BROOK S. P. (STON)	PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3 TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond A Road Trip Dip
TOWNS	ROCHESTER, DANSVILLE
LAT, LON [N83/W84]	lat=42.5176, lon=-77.6921(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE	NY
WATER	Unknown
TYPE	River
DESCRIPTION	River swimming, waterfalls, cold water, great place. This description from a fan who visited here since he was a boy: "The park follows a gorge created by the stream. There's a lower pool with lifeguards, and an upper pool not always with lifeguards. (NOTE: We had an email in 2008 that the upper pool is closed) But the best part of the park is a trail which follows the rim of the gorge. You enter the park at the lower pool and begin the approx two mile hike to the upper pool. There are 3 trails that link the lower and upper areas. One is along the gorge (going in the water along the trail is OK and there are 3 waterfalls); two trails are along either rim of the gorge. Moderately strenuous. End at the upper pool. There's a concession stand, sometimes open, and that's where the camping is. You descend on the gorge trail alongside the stream to the lower pool. Spectacular views at the base of the gorge, about 150 or 200 feet deep. Several neat waterfalls - too big and dangerous to go over. Plenty of opportunity to sit in quiet pools. Whole deal takes about 2 or 3 hours depending on how much swimming you do. My favorite place on earth." Hey, I can't beat that endorsement!
AREAS	Stoney Brook S.P.
SANCTION	Partially official
FEE	Yes
FACILITIES	Toilet, Picnic tables
ACTIVITIES	Swimming
PHONE	(585)-335-8111
CAMPING	Camping at site.
BATHING SUITS	Unknown
DIRECTIONS	From Rochester, go about 45 miles south on I-390 to Exit 4 (Dansville). From Dansville, south about 2-3 miles on RT 36.
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	By another, 8/2003
LAST UPDATE	4/30/2009

Swimmingholes.info

STRATFORD AREA [4 PLACES] (STRA)	PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE
TOWNS	ALBANY,GLOVERSVILLE, CANAJOHARIE, PINE LAKE, STRATFORD, SALISBURY CENTER
STATE	NY
WATER	Varies, see below
TYPE	Varies, see below
DESCRIPTION	Several swimming places in the southwestern Adirondack area. For details, see DIRECTIONS below.
AREAS	Adirondack area
SANCTION	Unofficial
FEE	No
FACILITIES	Varies, see below
ACTIVITIES	Swimming
PHONE	Unknown
CAMPING	Little Sand Point S.P., north on RT 10, is super!
BATHING SUITS	Unknown
DIRECTIONS	From Albany, take I-90 west to Exit 29 (Canajoharie) then take RT 10 north (joins RT 29A) to Pine Lake, where RT 29A turns west. (a total of about 26 miles from I-90). Then: NINE CORNER LAKE [NINE]: Nine Corner Lake has a main beach-y area with a great rope swing plus many other coves where people swim with some privacy. Clothing is optional at some of the more remote coves, customary at she main/closest ones. There is primitive camping at site - commercial campgrounds and state park campgrounds nearby. PHOTO 1 , PHOTO 2 . To get here from the intersection of Rt 29A and RT 10 in Pine Lake: Turn west (left) onto RT 29A and in about .25 mile park at trail head. Parking is on both sides of the road, but the trail leaves from the north (right) side. Sign in at register and follow wide trail 1.1 miles to lake. Keep right at all forks and you will come to the lake and the main "beach" and rope swing. Cross over rock dam at main beach and follow "fisherman's" paths to other swim opportunities. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=43.19106, lon=-74.55022(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/2005. Updated 8/24/2005. A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond GOOD LUCK LAKE [GOOD]: Medium size lake with rocky shore for informal swimming. PHOTO OF LAKE (but not at beach) . Bathing suits optional. Primitive camping at site. Group camping or stays of over 3 days require DEC permit. To get here from intersection of Rt 29A and RT 10 in Pine Lake: Continue north on RT 10. Go past some parking areas and park where sign reads "Trailhead Parking". Park on the east side of the road, cross road to where trail begins. There is a sign there that says "Good Luck Lake .4 miles"- I think this is not correct. The trail will take you to a sandy beach area on the lake in about 4 miles. Or you can go about 30 yards south of this trailhead to an unofficial trail that begins near the diamond shaped highway sign that will get you to a rocky shore in .5 mile. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=43.24944, lon= -74.54194 (source: Topozone) (accuracy: general area) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Partially verified (didn't go full 4 miles to beach) 8/2005. Updated 8/24/2005. MUSSEY DAM [MUSS]: Swimming place in beautiful, rocky section of East Canada Creek at a picnic area. A traditionally nude place. PHOTO NOTE: I received this note in 7/2006: "I'm the owner of Mussy Dam. Every year I have an increasing number of visitors to my property, and I am constantly trying to persuade people to not block my driveway and not to build fires which they leave unattended, and NOT TO LITTER. Literally hundreds of people will pass through my backyard every month. Would you please, alter the post you have about Mussy Dam: NO campfires and NO littering. Or just delete the listing entirely. I do not want to prevent people from coming to swim and relax, but it's reaching critical mass. Most people are repectful of the earth, but many are not. I find so many bottles, cans, dirty diapers, used sanitary napkins, etc, that you can guess how this is very distressing to me." You can see that we are going to have to remove this listing if the littering and fires don't stop! So, please, respect this place and the property owner. To get here from Pine Lake, go west on RT 29A to Stratford. From Stratford, take the Piseco Rd. north for 2.5 miles and turn west (left) on Hawes Rd. - a dirt road marked with a "dead end" sign. Continue about .1 mile to where the road turns sharply right. Park here by the road and walk to the left down another (very rough) dirt road then onto a path that goes to the picnic place and the creek. Walk is only about 5 minutes. If you go about 50 yards downstream there is another deeper pool with higher cliffs for jumping off. Also on the rocks is a tree that has a ladder and wooden platform that allows for an even higher leap. Reported to be a pretty safe place to jump. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=43.204, lon=-74.688(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Very confident. Verified 8/2005. Updated 8/24/2005. SPRUCE HOLE [SPRU]: Swimming place at a park in Stratford in Spruce Creek just downstream of a covered bridge. PHOTO 1 (bridge) , PHOTO 2 (swim place) . To get here, continue west on RT 29A to Salisbury Center. Turn down Fairview street and park before the covered bridge. Walk downstream in the park along the creek a short way until you come to a large, flat sloping rock that goes down to the creek. Swimming place is here. There are other shallow places for water play also. LAT, LON [N83/W84] lat=43.14041, lon=-74.78725(source: DeLorme) (accuracy: approximate) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP. Pretty confident. Not verified. Updated 3/5/04.
CONFIDENCE	Varies - see above
VERIFIED	Varies - see above
LAST UPDATE	8/25/2005

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TREMAN S. P. (TREM)	PHOTO 1 PHOTO 2 PHOTO 3 PHOTO 4 PHOTO 5 PHOTO 6 TO STATE MAP TO HOMEPAGE A Family-Friendly Walden's Pond A Road Trip Dip
TOWNS	ITHACA
LAT, LON [N83/W84]	lat=42.39736, lon=-76.55744(source: DeLorme) (accuracy:exact) LINK TO GOOGLE MAP
STATE	NY
WATER	Enfield Creek
TYPE	Falls/Creek
DESCRIPTION	OK - this is one of the very best swimming holes in the US! It is beautiful, legal, safe and exciting. Kids love it, you can dive off a high board into a deep pool at the foot of a huge waterfall, swim behind the waterfall and all with lifeguards on duty. Beautiful falls with official swimming in pool below the falls. Diving board, lifeguards, safe and spectacular. This is a premier natural swimming place for the whole family. Also, hike the "Gorge Trail" (aka Enfield Glen) above the falls through a post-glacial gorge to 115 foot high Lucifer Falls. Fantastically beautiful! (see photos above). There is unofficial swimming at various places in the gorge above falls. Here is a report from a fan:" There are several great places to swim, along the hiking trails. Specifically the Gorge Trail - as it follows the water most of the way. I wouldn't recommend swimming in the river in the early summer, if it has been a wet year, as the water can be ferocious. However, there are several places where it is very shallow and pools over great sheets of rock, and warms in the sun. That's an important thing for this water, as it is glacier fed and is damn cold even in a very hot summer. There are also some gentle rapids that can be swam, and little ledges that can be jumped off of into deep pools. At the bottom of Lucifer Falls is a great swimming hole - it's not on a trail, but it is still easy to get to. Lots of folks swim there, and the depth ranges from around 10-12 feet (sold rock bottom) to pebble bottomed shallows."
AREAS	Robert H. Treman S.P., Enfield Glen
SANCTION	Official (only in pool below falls, not in gorge)
FEE	Yes
FACILITIES	Toilet, Changing room, Picnic tables, Showers
ACTIVITIES	Swimming, Diving (in pool below falls)
PHONE	(607)-273-3440
CAMPING	Camping at site. Pretty plain sites, not a lot of trees, close together. For wooded sites, try sites #20 to 35, although even some of these are quite close together.
BATHING SUITS	Required (in pool below falls)
DIRECTIONS	From Ithaca, go southwest on RT 96/13 about 8 miles (past Buttermilk Falls S.P.), follow signs to Robert H. Treman S. P..
CONFIDENCE	Very confident
VERIFIED	yes
LAST UPDATE	7/31/2006

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Swimmingholes.info