The best spots in the Mountain State to cool off on a hot summer day can be found at a West Virginia’s state parks and forests. With an abundance of both mountains and rivers, West Virginia is a prime location for picturesque swimming holes that look like they belong on a postcard.

Audra State Park

Audra State Park has several excellent spots for a refreshing swim, but the best location, according to the locals, is underneath the bridge just below the rapid. There is also a main swimming hole if you’re looking for company – Audra is popular with local college students and campers as it’s a great destination to bask in the sun and take in scenic Almost Heaven views. 

Holly River State Park

Shupe’s Chute is exactly what you would expect an east coast waterfall-and-swimming-hole combo to look like. These wooded, rocky cliffs give way to a turquoise-hued, deep swimming hole that you’ll never want to leave. If you find yourself wanting a break from swimming, you’ve got the entire 8,000-acre Holly River State Park to explore, with more than 42 miles of hiking trails, plus camping or cabins if you want to spend the night.