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📨  The Latest Go-To Newsletter: 🖌 Meet a Local Muralist

Where to Swim Near Winston-Salem

It’s no secret that summers in North Carolina are hot. Luckily, you don’t have to go that far from the city to cool off in a river, lake, watering hole, or waterfall. Keep reading to find out where to swim near Winston-Salem! 

Updated May 2024

 

Stone Mountain Waterfall

 

Shacktown Falls at Shore-Styers Mill Park 

ADDRESS | 1400 Styers Mill Rd, Yadkinville

This is your spot if you want to get your feet wet and enjoy nature. Located about 30 yards from the parking lot, this waterfall is the perfect place to cool off. The waterfall is only 10 feet high but is spread across a very wide stream with a large water flow (depending on the amount of rainfall). 

Important to know: Bring a towel or chair to sit on and water shoes.

 

Carrigan Farms 

ADDRESS | 1261 Oakridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville

Open swim begins May 18! Take a day trip to cool off in the quarry, grab a bite to eat at their restaurant, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. No outside food or beverages are allowed.

Important to know: You must make a reservation; All guests must wear a lifejacket unless they have passed the Carrigan Farms swim test; Cash and check only at their restaurant; No pets

 

Hanging Rock Lake 

ADDRESS | 2847 Hanging Rock Park Rd, Westfield

Hanging Rock offers more than hiking. Head to its lake for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Swimming in the lake is available only from May 25 to Sept 2, and the diving board is only open when an attendant is on duty. They also have canoeing and kayaking rentals available. 

Important to know: Fee charged for all swimmers; Free swim from 4:45 PM – 5:30 PM

 

Lake Norman State Park

ADDRESS | 759 State Park Rd, Troutman

Hike, fish, boat, and swim at Lake Norman State Park. The swim area includes a 125-yard-long sand beach, parking area, and bathhouse with a concession stand, restrooms, changing stalls, warm showers, and lockers. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

Rent a canoe, pedal boat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the water. This equipment is available for rent 9 AM – 3 PM on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Important to know: There is a fee (cash only) when a lifeguard is on duty. 

 

Carter Falls

ADDRESS | 921 Pleasant Ridge Rd, Elkin

Carter Falls is accessible by a 0.5-mile trail from a parking lot. There are 4 trails we recommend to reach the falls (Carter Falls Trailhead, Byrd’s Branch Campground, Grassy Creek Vineyard Trailhead, and Isaac’s Trailhead).

Swimming is allowed, but be cautious and use your best judgment – especially with little ones – as rocks can get slippery. Use this map from Elkin Valley Trails! 

Important to know: This hike is popular, so be prepared for crowds on a Saturday afternoon.

 

River Park at Cooleemee Falls (The Bullhole)

ADDRESS | 645 Erwin Temple Church Rd, Woodleaf

This park is perfect for relaxing in a tube or just playing in the water. You can even “ride” the little rapids. After swimming, enjoy lying on the sandy beach. Be sure to bring your water shoes as the rocks are slippery and the riverbed is rocky!

Important to know: The current can be strong; There are restrooms 

 

Stone Mountain Waterfall

ADDRESS | 3042 Frank Pkwy, Roaring Gap

Even though you can’t swim here, the shallow water is perfect for kiddos to splash their feet in. This is a great spot to end your Stone Mountain hike, or you can skip the hike altogether and head straight to this water attraction! The waterfall is very close to the “upper trail” parking lot. 

Important to know: There is a massive staircase to get to the lower part of the waterfall.

 

Salem Lake 

ADDRESS | 815 Salem Lake Rd, Winston-Salem

Salem Lake is known for its biking/walking/running 7-mile loop, but you can always take advantage of the lake itself. Although you can’t swim in Salem Lake, we recommend renting a kayak for just $4/hour or a Jon Boat for $6/hour.

Important information to know: Inflatable kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards are allowed pending an inspection of the Salem Lake staff; No inflatable rafts/tubes or designs that cause persons to have body parts in the water are allowed.                                     

 

Dan River

If you want to float in a tube, check out the Dan River—a 214-mile river spanning Virginia and North Carolina. There are a variety of activities to do, including trails, camping, tubing, and more! Check out the following outfitters to book your next tubing adventure: 

 

Yadkin River

The Yadkin Pee Dee River Trail, stretching across multiple counties in North Carolina, provides a chance to discover the region’s natural wonders via kayaking or canoeing.

The trail starts east of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in Wilkes County, passes through the town of Elkin, and then proceeds toward Winston-Salem. Continuing southward along the borders of Davie, Rowan, and Davidson counties, it finishes at the entrance of High Rock Lake.

You can check out all the access points and find helpful information here and on the Yadkin River Keeper website. For tubing adventures and more, check out the following outfitters:

 

Lake Hampton

Lake Hampton, located in Yadkinville, has 140 acres of beautiful water – perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.  Please note that swimming is not allowed at Lake Hampton. Other amenities at the park include a dog park, playground, disc golf course, shelters, restrooms, and more.

Important to know: The park hours vary, so check the website before heading there. Single kayaks are $6/hour or $35/day; double kayaks & Jon Boats are $10/hour or $40/day. 

 

Public Pools & Splash Pads

Want to stay close to home? Click the link to find a list of public pools and splash pads right here in Winston-Salem.

 

Happy Hills Plash Pad

 

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