The Best Swimming Spots In North Carolina: Lakes, Rivers, And More

Only a few states have both large mountains and a coastline. And North Carolina is one of them. This southeastern state is divided into three geographical sections: the coastal plain, Piedmont, and the Appalachian Mountains. And due to the state’s mild, humid climate, there are many opportunities for swimming and other water activities. 

North Carolina’s hot season lasts for nearly five months, almost half the year. Temperatures are typically warm enough for swimming from mid-May to mid-September, with average highs from 80 to 90 degrees. North Carolina features 300 miles of shoreline, so there are plenty of places to soak up the sun and splash in the ocean. But inland areas of the state offer abundant freshwater sources for fun. Discover the best swimming spots in North Carolina, including swimming holes, lakes, rivers, water parks, and beaches.

North Carolina Swimming Holes

North Carolina has many natural pools perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Many of the most well-known spots with waterfalls and large slipper rocks are located near the base of the mountains in the western portions of the state. But you can also find several in Central North Carolina. Many of the swimming holes also have hiking trails nearby. Once you’re done swimming in the cold, clear waters, you can dry off and put your hiking boots on.

Here are some of the best swimming holes in North Carolina:

• Deep Creek in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
• Bust Your Butt Falls in Nantahala National Forest
• Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest
• Schoolhouse Falls in Panthertown Valley
• Skinny Dip Falls in Pisgah National Forest

Check out this article for an in-depth look at all the best swimming holes in North Carolina.

North Carolina Lakes

While many people think of the beaches when visiting North Carolina, the state is geographically diverse, with many options for a summer getaway. North Carolina’s lakes provide another level of beauty and oneness with nature. Plus, they are excellent for keeping cool and having fun. You can find lakes in almost every part of the state, but naturally occurring lakes are most abundant in the eastern regions. These NC lakes provide opportunities for swimming, sunning, boating, fishing, and camping.

Ready to learn about more of the best swimming spots in North Carolina? Check out these lakes!

• Lake Norman – near Charlotte
• Lake Santeetlah – far west near the Tennessee border
• Hyco Lake – Northwest North Carolina, close to the Virginia border
• Lake Lure – Southwest NC in Rutherford County
• Lake Mattamuskeet – along the coast near Pamlico Sound

Read this article to discover the 10 biggest lakes in North Carolina.

North Carolina Rivers For Swimming and Floating

Swimming and rafting in a lazy river on a hot day is a favorite pastime for North Carolina natives. If you grew up in this great state, you’ve probably spent your childhood floating down rivers with all your friends. Swimming and floating rivers exist al lover the state, but there are a few, in particular, that are local favorites. The only things you need for these swimming spots are a raft and a cold drink.

Check out these rivers in North Carolina for your next summer weekend trip.

• Deep Creek near Bryson City
• Fontana Village Resort – Nantahala National Forest
• Dan River – Northwest Piedmont
• Davidson River – Pisgah National Forest
• French Broad River – Asheville
• Cape Fear River – Lillington

North Carolina Beaches

With over 300 miles of coastline, North Carolina has many prime locations for beach activities, including swimming, sunning, surfing, fishing, wakeboarding, and any other ocean adventure you can think of. The shoreline is in Eastern North Carolina, running from Virginia to South Carolina. And it includes the outer banks, a string of barrier islands in the Atlantic. Bring a towel, an umbrella, and some sunscreen, and you’re all set.

Here are some of the best beaches in North Carolina for swimming.

• Emerald Isle
• Cape Lookout
• Bald Head Island
• Nags Head
• Cape Hatteras
• Carolina Beach

North Carolina Water Parks

There is no question that North Carolina has an endless amount of natural swimming areas in nature. But what about manmade parks that offer family fun? If you’re looking for wave pools, lazy rivers, waterslides, and roller coasters, North Carolina has that, too. 

Check out the best swimming spots in North Carolina at these water parks.

• Carowinds – Charlotte
• Wet ‘n Wild – Greensboro
• White Lake Water Park – Elizabethtown
• Lake Lure Beach and Water Park – Lake Lure
• Great Wolf Lodge – Concord

Summary Of The Best Swimming Spots In North Carolina