Swimming Holes

The swimming holes can be described as places in the natural water bodies like streams, rivers, springs, etc. that are suitable for swimming. Oceans and lakes are not included in this category, for the reason that these water bodies do not contain freshwater. The swimming holes were mostly used in olden times. With the increase in number of artificial swimming pools, popularity of these natural swimming holes had decreased for a while. However, people are once again resorting to enjoying swimming in the natural environment. Let us understand more about them through information provided below.

About Swimming Holes

Enjoying a bright sunny afternoon in a swimming hole can be a refreshing experience. According to Pancho Doll, who traversed 25,000 miles in search of swimming holes and who is an author of Day Trips with a Splash: Swimming Holes of California, an ideal swimming hole offers privacy, depth and height. Other features about the perfect swimming hole are that of having a ledge to jump from and a surrounding rock which provides a nice and cozy enclosure.

Swimming Holes: New York

The state of New York has many swimming holes and few of them are described below.

Peekamoose Blue Hole: The Rondout Creek is where this swimming hole is located. A deep pool where water flows down from a rock opening is the main feature of this place.

Vernooy Falls: 'Catskill Nature Preserve' is the place where Vernooy Falls is located. Situated in the scenic natural environment, the swimming hole is surrounded by a camping area; the water is cold throughout summer.

Wilmington Gorge: This gorge is formed by a high fall. The Wilmington gorge is located at a point where the West Branch Ausable River crosses route 86 (RT 86). The gorge takes form of small waterfall and finally a deep swimming hole.

Swimming Hole Safety Measures

The swimming holes though offer a great swimming experience during summer season, one should follow all the necessary precautions before taking that tempting dive. The first and foremost thing to do is getting an idea of the water level. The water level dips down considerably in the summer season and therefore, one has to be careful before getting into swimming holes. The following points should also prove to be useful.

• It is not advisable to swim alone. Getting any kind of help during emergency situations thus, becomes difficult.
• Entering unknown waters barefoot can be risky; the sharp edges of rocks/pieces of glass may lead to injuries.
• Stepping into areas that don't offer a clear view could be dangerous. Possibility of snakes hiding in crevices and other such places can't be denied.
• Swimming in upper pools of a waterfall poses a danger of swimmers getting washed off.
• Standing directly under the waterfalls too is risky. Small pebbles and rocks are washed off the waterfalls which might hurt the people standing beneath.
• Acts like climbing alongside the waterfalls have resulted into most number of deaths near swimming holes. One should completely avoid doing any such activity.
• Drinking alcohol at the swimming hole can lead a person to lose control; this might cause injuries.
• Beware of stagnant waters; the possibility of contracting amoeba infection increases manifold in such kind of water bodies.

The swimming holes are perfect places to enjoy holidays in summer season. There are many swimming holes in New York, the US, and in the entire world. One should experience swimming in these water bodies while taking all the required safety measures. Keeping them free of water pollution too is our own responsibility.