The Best Swimming Holes Near Charlotte

Do you live in North Carolina? Perhaps you’re visiting family near Charlotte. Whatever your reasoning is, why not treat yourself to a refreshing soak at one of Charlotte’s top swimming holes? We’ve found some of the best options for everyone. Whether you’re looking for rushing waters to kayak or a relaxing stream to meditate near, we’ve got you covered! 

1. Carrigan Farms

Although swimming at the Carrigan Farms quarry isn’t the cheapest option in the Charlotte area, it’s worth mentioning in case you can afford to splash out. The most picturesque, unspoiled swimming spot in the vicinity is here. 

Following swinging on the rope swing, people can plunge off the rocks and dive into the quarry. The quarry’s entrance is located at 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Highway, Mooresville, 28115. The cost per person starts at $20 but varies depending on the day and hour, sometimes reaching $25. 

Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and, on some days, 3:45 p.m. until sunset. It is perfect for swimming because it is 25 feet deep and has a cool, refreshing temperature in the summer. It is surrounded by a white sand beach and an expansive lawn.

2. Sliding Rock

Every summer, hundreds of kids and adults slide down Sliding Rock, a well-liked natural mountain waterfall close to Brevard and Asheville, North Carolina. As they surf the icy water across the 60-foot smooth, sloping boulder one at a time, the sliders calmly line up and anticipate their turns. 

They create a wave in an eight-foot-deep pool, swim a short distance to shore, line up, and repeat the process. Usually, the water is between 50 and 60 degrees! Eight miles from Brevard, this natural waterfall in Transylvania County is powered by 11,000 gallons of water that pour down the cliff every minute. 

On sweltering summer days, it is very popular, so wait! There are several places to sit on rocks and unwind or stand on observation platforms and gaze.

3. Skinny Dip Falls

A sunny summer day is a great time to cool off in the clear, chilly water of Skinny Dip Falls. And with numerous cascades and pools, it’s a stunning waterfall environment in Transylvania County that can be enjoyed at any time of year without getting wet.

Skinny Dip Falls isn’t a clothing-optional area, despite the cheeky name. If you feel adventurous, there are several partially isolated areas. There are various areas to wade or take a seat in the cool mountain water, in addition to a wonderful “jump off rock” into a deep pool (approximately six feet deep). Be careful because there is no lifeguard on duty.

The parking lot at the “417” milepost is located across Blue Ridge Parkway from the trailhead for Skinny Dip Falls. Although there are a few detours, stick to the Mountains to Sea Trail. There are a few rises and some pebbles throughout the trail, but nothing difficult. The walk comes to an end at a bench and a staircase that leads to the swimming hole and cascade.

4. Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park began as a Civilian Conservation Corps project and is now a park that provides every element of a classic outdoor experience. It is situated in Stokes County, 30 miles north of Winston-Salem. 

There are trails that lead to waterfalls, rock outcrops, stunning mountain views, and even a mountain cavern. A chunk is a part of the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, and some are accessible for mountain biking and horseback riding. 

A swimming lake, campgrounds, and access to canoeing on the Dan River round out the range of recreational options. The hours of operation at Hanging Rock State Park change depending on the season. Only in the summertime is it possible to swim in the lake, and only while a lifeguard is on duty is the diving board accessible.

5. Cane Creek Park

A 350-acre monster bass lake is surrounded by a stunning, fully furnished recreational resort. It’s the place to go whether you want to go fishing, camping, swimming, or just have a get-together for family, friends, or coworkers outside.

Cane Creek Park is located in Waxhaw, North Carolina. From Charlotte, this is just a 45-minute drive south. Not only is the water perfect to swim in, but many people also bring their kayaks, canoes, and other floating devices to enjoy a nice day out on the water. 

It is important to note that there is a $4 fee per vehicle. 

Learn More by Watching the Video Below

Summary of 5 Best Swimming Holes Near Charlotte

Here’s a recap of the five top swimming spots surrounding Charlotte that we took a look at.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Red_pexel/Shutterstock.com