Swimming Holes in South Carolina

South Carolina's mountains are thin, but the rivers that drain them aren't. The Chattooga River on the Georgia border is Wild and Scenic, with swimming in the upper section near Earl's Ford and the Section III launch point. Walhalla Oconee State Park has swimming in a reservoir in the Blue Ridge foothills. The French Broad River crosses through the western corner for swimming near Mountain Rest. The Saluda River has informal swimming in Greenville County upstream of the lakes. For developed swimming, the beaches of the Grand Strand are the state's primary draw — the river holes are for locals who know them.

Always check current conditions before visiting — water levels, algae advisories, and access roads change seasonally. Never swim alone in remote sites. Tell someone your plans. Explore all swimming holes on the Trek4Free map →