The Best Swimming Holes Near Philadelphia

It is absolutely wonderful and necessary to plunge into ice-cold water when the temperatures soar. Although Philadelphia offers many public swimming pools, it’s great to embrace your sense of adventure and make a short excursion to a natural body of water. Within a three-hour journey of the city, we’ve picked up the top swimming holes. They are sure to help you escape the warmth and have a blast with your friends and family. Let’s discover the best swimming holes near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!

Atsion Recreation Area

When visiting Philadelphia, you’ll soon learn that a lot of fun activities are just over the border in New Jersey, like the Wharton State Forest and Atsion Recreation Area. This Lake only allows swimming while lifeguards are on site from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Atsion Village and Recreation area offer a diverse range of activities, including camping, hiking, horseback riding, and hunting. The Atsion Recreation Area has one of the most well-liked bathing beaches in the area, and Atsion Mansion is one of the outstanding restored historic buildings in Wharton State Forest.

Several relaxation stations with showers and restrooms are among the many amenities offered around the 100-acre lake. Along with the lake, you can utilize the playgrounds, ball fields, picnic spots, BBQ grills, and refreshment stands. Additionally, two nature trails are accessible for hiking. They are wheelchair accessible and clearly labeled.

Beltzville State Park

This park is situated in Carbon County and features recreational grounds near Beltzville Lake and Pohopoco Creek. The lake has a 949-acre surface area and 19.8 miles of shoreline. In addition to swimming, Beltzville Lake is a popular place for fishing and boating. 

There are 15 miles of hiking and bike routes. The trails come in a variety of lengths, and some travel along historic roads. People of all ages enjoy spending time at Beltzville State Park on a toasty summer day!

An old, covered bridge constructed in 1841 stands between the picnic spots and the beach. Though horse-and-buggy traffic first used this bridge, it is currently solely accessible to pedestrians. 

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area contains around 200 lakes. There are numerous lakes and ponds to discover here. Additionally, Delaware Water Gap offers three swimming places, although some leisure facilities struggle to have just one. 

Milford Beach, Smithfield Beach, and Turtle Beach are the three swimming spots in this recreational area, and they are located in the Delaware River rather than lakes. From mid-June through August, lifeguards are present at every swimming location. 

The Delaware Water Gap, which spans Pennsylvania and New Jersey, is a pleasant location to visit with friends or family. To fully utilize the picnic spaces, visitors may bring their own food. 

Blue Marsh Lake

Amazing recreational facilities like Blue Marsh Lake are certainly worth numerous family outings. A great spot to get acquainted with the area is the tourist center on Palisades Drive. Inside are displays about the history and wildlife of the area, and a wraparound deck offers a magnificent view of the lake. 

Families can spend a day in the water in a variety of ways on the eight-mile lake. Canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats can embark from the boat launch off Bernville Road at the northern end of the lake, or at the launch on Old Church Road. 

The middle of the lake can be quite congested with motorboats. From here, you can tour the lake’s wide stretches and tranquil, shaded arms. The Dry Brooks Day Use Area has a restroom and a well-liked beach. 

Locust Lake

Locust Lake State Park is located on the side of Locust Mountain and is well-known for its popular camping area. The 52-acre Locust Lake is encircled by lovely woodlands and is situated between two campgrounds. In the 1,772-acre park, popular activities include hiking and fishing. Each day of the year, from sunrise to sunset, the park is accessible. However, at dusk, day-use zones close. 

To access the park, take Exit 131B off I-81 North, cross under the overpass, and turn left straight away in the direction of New Boston. After 1.1 miles, turn left and follow the signs. The beachfront, overnight areas, and other locations only operate at certain times of the year. For facilities seasons and hours, get in touch with the Tuscarora State Park office.

Bellmawr Lake

Although this next swimming hole is in New Jersey, Bellmawr is among the nicest lakes near Philadelphia for a speedy retreat. It is accessible from Philadelphia and only takes 15 to 20 minutes to reach Center City. It is also available every day of the week. 

There are a ton of fun things to do there, whether you visit independently, with your family, or just to hang out with friends. Dining spots, beach volleyball, mini golf, a water slide, horseshoes, and outdoor cuisine are available at Bellmawr Lake. 

Although domesticated animals and alcohol are not permitted there, the lake has everything you’ll need for a good time and an opportunity to cool off.

As per a prior version of this list, we advise locals and visitors to avoid swimming in Devil’s Pool for their own safety. It’s illegal to swim there, yet still makes a mighty fine place to visit as long as you avoid the water!

Summary of the Best Swimming Holes Near Philadelphia

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