Swimming Holes in SC

Discover 8 amazing natural swimming destinations across SC. From pristine lakes to refreshing rivers, find your perfect swimming spot.

8
Swimming Holes
6
Types
6
Free Access
2
Fee Required
8 locations found
River
Fee

BLACK RIVER

ANDREWS

A guide to the Black River swimming hole near Andrews, SC. Find directions, safety tips, and details for swimming, rope swinging, and tubing.

Black River
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River
Free

EDISTO RIVER AREA

CHARLESTON

Plan a visit to the Edisto River near Charleston for unofficial swimming and canoeing. Find directions, safety tips for alligators, and access info for Colleton State Park.

Edisto River
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Waterfall
Free

HORSESHOE FALLS

GREENVILLE

Find Horseshoe Falls near Greenville SC. Guide for swimming, jumping, and directions to this unofficial waterfall on Cedar Shoals Creek.

Cedar Shoals Creek
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Artesian Spring
Free

LEE STATE PARK

FLORENCE

Plan your visit to the natural artesian pool at Lee State Park, SC. Find directions, access notes, and safety tips for cooling off in the spring water.

Spring
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Falls
Free

Moonshine Falls Scenic Swimming Spots

GREENVILLE

Guide to unofficial Moonshine Falls swimming spots near Greenville, SC. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice for water play.

Varies, see below
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Spring fed pond
Fee

PARSONS MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA

AUGUSTA

Visit the official spring-fed pond at Parsons Mountain Recreation Area in SC for swimming. Details on fees, directions from Augusta, and safety tips.

Lake
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Falls/River
Free

SUMTER N. F. AREA

WESTMINSTER

Plan a visit to the unofficial Chau-Ram Falls swimming hole in Sumter National Forest, SC. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal info for this river cascade.

Varies, see below
View Details
Falls
Free

TODD CREEK FALLS

CLEMSON

Find hiking directions and safety tips for Todd Creek Falls, an unofficial waterfall and swimming spot near Clemson, South Carolina.

Todd Creek
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Safety & Responsibility

  • Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, and hazards change quickly.
  • Follow posted signs and local regulations. Do not trespass.
  • Never jump or dive without checking depth and underwater obstacles.
  • Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for non‑swimmers.
  • Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.

Overview

SC features 8 natural swimming spots across 6 water types. Expect varying access and conditions by season; arrive early on weekends, pack out trash, and always verify current rules and water levels before you go.

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Ready to discover more? Check out swimming holes in other states or browse our complete directory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many swimming holes are in SC?
Our directory lists 8 natural swimming destinations in SC, spanning 4 water types: Rivers (2), Falls (2), Waterfalls (1), Artesian Springs (1). Of these, 6 (75%) are free to access and 2 require an entry fee or parking pass.
What types of swimming spots does SC have?
SC's 8 listed swimming destinations include rivers and creeks with natural swimming access, spring-fed pools, and waterfall plunge pools. Notable water bodies include Black River, Edisto River, Cedar Shoals Creek, Spring, Varies, see below.
Which swimming holes in SC are free?
6 of the 8 swimming holes in SC (75%) are listed as free to access. The remaining 2 are in managed areas such as state parks or national forests that charge a day-use or parking fee — typically $5–$10 per vehicle. Always verify current fee information with the managing agency before your visit, as prices change.
Where are the best areas to find swimming holes in SC?
Swimming destinations in SC are clustered around ANDREWS, CHARLESTON, WALTERBORO, ST. GEORGE. 8 of the listed sites are officially sanctioned swimming areas, typically in state or national parks with better access and signage.
When is the best time to visit swimming holes in SC?
Based on the conditions reported across SC's listed sites, summer tends to offer the best swimming conditions — warm enough water with manageable crowds. Late spring is ideal for waterfall flows; check USGS streamflow data before visiting any river site after rainfall. Spring-fed pools in the state often maintain consistent temperatures year-round. Always check current weather and water conditions before heading out.
Are swimming holes in SC safe for families and children?
Safety varies significantly by location. 8 officially managed sites in SC typically have clearer access, signage, and in some cases lifeguard coverage — these are generally the best starting points for families. Unofficial or backcountry swimming holes require more caution: always check water depth before letting children enter, watch for currents — even slow-looking rivers can have strong undertow, and avoid swimming during or after heavy rain. Supervise children closely at all times.
Do I need a permit or reservation to swim in SC?
Most swimming holes in SC do not require advance permits, but some high-traffic locations within national forests and popular state parks have moved to timed-entry reservation systems, especially on summer weekends. 2 sites charge a day-use or parking fee. Check the official website of the land management agency — US Forest Service (fs.usda.gov), BLM (blm.gov), or your state parks authority — for the most current access rules before your trip.