With average temperatures in the high 80-degree range, summers in North Carolina can be brutal. Luckily, the Forsyth County area is full of swimming holes to help you cool off!
From hidden spots in the foothills to popular lakes close to town, here are the top places to check out if you’re looking to escape the heat this summer.
Hanging Rock State Park
Located just 45 minutes north of Winston-Salem, Hanging Rock State Park has some of the most picturesque bodies of water that you’ll find in the state. While you can’t swim near the waterfalls, the lake in the middle of the park only costs a small fee to access and has sandy shores and scenic, tree-filled banks!
If you don’t feel like going for a swim, you can also rent a boat on-site! Both canoes and rowboats are available for a small cost.
Belews Creek
The Belews Creek Lake area is home to a large body of water with a surface area of 3,864 acres and a shoreline that stretches for 88 miles. Fun fact: it was actually created by Duke Energy in the 1970s to provide cooling water for a nearby steam station!
The lake can get deep quickly, reaching up to 130 feet in some areas, so it’s more popular for boating and waterskiing than anything else. Be sure to check out the Carolina Marina once you’re done soaking up the sun!
Yadkin River
Boating, fishing, swimming—you’ll find it all along the Yadkin River. Just off of Yadkinville, the river has tons of access points, all of which are part of a 125-mile long paddling trail, the Yadkin Pee Dee River Trail.
If you know where to look, you can even find a few small waterfalls along the way!
Riverpark at Cooleemee Falls
Just a few minutes away from Yadkinville and Lexington, the Riverpark at Cooleemee Falls is a scenic swimming hole with a sandy beach and a small waterfall—perfect for grabbing a quick spritz of coolness! The bottom of the water is a little rocky and slippery, so be sure to wear some water shoes or sandals.
There are also picnic tables, shaded covers, and trails surrounding the water, so there’s plenty to do on land, as well!
Winston Waterworks
Are swimming holes not your thing? No problem! Winston Waterworks is a waterpark in Winston-Salem that features a pool, a lazy river, a water playground, and water slides. If you want to stick around the city and add some extra safety to your swimming outing, then be sure to check it out.
Find Your Home in Forsyth County
There’s plenty of hidden spots and local gems to explore in Forsyth County, and we’re here to help you find them all. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just finding your way around the area, give us a call!