Kingwood Region Swimming Holes

Directions to Kingwood Region Swimming Holes (WV)

General Overview:
The Kingwood Region Swimming Holes are located in West Virginia, near the towns of Morgantown, Kingwood, and Rowlesburg. These swimming spots are accessible via Route 72, which runs alongside the scenic Cheat River. Below are detailed directions to three popular locations: Pringle Run Falls, Rock Garden, and Pewee Rock.

Pringle Run Falls

Driving Directions:

1. From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
2. Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood.
3. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street).
4. Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here.
5. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 4.1 miles.
6. Look for a small bridge over Pringle Run. Just before crossing this bridge, there will be a steep dirt road on the right (west side) and some parking space at the bottom of the road.

Trailhead and Approach:

• The dirt road leading to the falls is steep and rough, and vehicles are not permitted on it.
• Hike up the dirt road for about 0.25 miles. The falls can be seen and heard from the road.
• To access the waterfall, there is a short, steep climb down from the road.
• The area features a stunning waterfall, aquamarine water, colorful rocks, and a large pool at the base. Flat rocks nearby provide space for sunbathing.

Note:
Pringle Run contains mine runoff with high acidic drainage and iron content, which creates the clear water and colorful rocks. There are no known health hazards associated with swimming here, and visitors have reported swimming without issues.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 39.41722
Longitude: -79.6925
Google Maps Link

Rock Garden

Driving Directions:

1. From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
2. Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood.
3. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street).
4. Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here.
5. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 5.8 miles.
6. Look for a small pull-off on the left (east side) of the road.

Trailhead and Approach:

• Park at the pull-off and take an easy walk down to the Cheat River.
• The area features large rocks scattered along the river, with deep swimming spots among them.

Caution:
The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times. Always check the current conditions before swimming.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 39.39748
Longitude: -79.68807
Google Maps Link

Pewee Rock (Party Rock)

Driving Directions:

1. From I-68 east of Morgantown, take Exit 23 for Bruceton Mills.
2. Merge onto Route 26 South and follow it to Kingwood.
3. In Kingwood, turn onto Route 7 East (Main Street).
4. Continue on Route 7 East until you reach the intersection with Route 72 South. Set your odometer here.
5. Follow Route 72 South for approximately 6.9 miles.
6. Look for a small pull-off on the left (east side) of the road.

Trailhead and Approach:

• Park at the pull-off and take an easy walk down to the Cheat River.
• The area features a large rock ("Pewee Rock") with a deep swimming spot below.

Caution:
The Cheat River is subject to heavy currents at times. Always check the current conditions before swimming.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 39.38915
Longitude: -79.70145
Google Maps Link

Additional Notes:

• These locations are remote and may not have cell service. Plan accordingly.
• Always exercise caution when swimming