Swimming Holes & River Dips

When summer arrives in Vermont, we head for the water.

Tucked along winding dirt roads and shaded by maples and pines, you’ll find clear rivers, gentle pools, and cool swimming holes that feel like little discoveries. Some are perfect for a quiet morning dip. Others invite you to linger on sun-warmed rocks while the kids splash nearby.

Bring a towel, water shoes, and a sense of adventure — Vermont’s rivers are refreshing, beautiful, and very much part of local life.

North Hartland Lake (Beach & Swim Area)

Approx. 8–10 miles
Type: Sandy beach + swimming area on Ottauquechee River reservoir
When: Daylight hours; summer swimming & picnics

Website

A classic summer favorite with a sandy swimming beach, picnic tables, and plenty of space to relax by the water.

Kedron Valley Inn Pond – South Woodstock

Approx. ~5 miles
Type: Private pond with sandy beach & swim dock
When: Summer (passes available)
Website
Additional pass info available locally at the South Woodstock Country Store.

A spring-fed pond with a sandy beach and small swim dock — gentle water and grassy lawn areas make this a great family spot.

Martin Mill Covered Bridge (Lulls Brook) – Hartland, VT

Approx. 6–7 miles
Type: River swimming hole
When: Daylight hours; best in summer during lower water levels
Directions:
Park on the south side of Martin Mill Covered Bridge on Martinsville Road (about ½ mile from Hartland Elementary School). Follow the steep footpath over the old mill foundations down to Lulls Brook.
Info:

A tucked-away swimming hole below Martins Mill Covered Bridge. A steep path leads down to Lulls Brook (use caution). Roaring water over rocks, a still pool about five feet deep, shallow soaking spots, and a sunny bank on the far side.

Pompanoosuc Mills / Ompompanoosuc River – Norwich/Thetford line

Approx. 20–22 miles
Type: River swimming hole
More Info

A classic Upper Valley river swim with deeper pools and rocky access. Not formal or maintained — very much a local favorite.

Kennedy Pond – Windsor Recreation Pond

Approx. ~8 miles
Type: Public pond swim & play area
When: Typically open in warmer months; check Windsor Recreation for exact seasonal hours
Website

A local pond swimming and recreation area managed by Windsor Recreation — great for casual swims and family time.

Quechee Gorge Swimming / River Access

Approx. ~10 miles
Type: Gorge river swimming
More Info

Hike down to the Ottauquechee River below the Quechee Gorge Bridge for a cool, scenic swim.

Ayers Brook Swimming Hole – Randolph, VT

Approx. 30 miles
Type: River swimming hole with cascades
More Info

A beautiful swimming hole with small waterfalls and deep pools along Ayers Brook. A favorite on hot days, though access requires a short walk and careful footing.

Storrs Pond Recreation Area – Hanover, NH

Approx. 20 miles
Type: Managed pond with beach & facilities
When: Seasonal, staffed beach during summer
Website

A well-loved Upper Valley swimming spot with sandy beach, lifeguards, restrooms, and picnic areas. Great for families and guests who want an easy, safe swim.

Mascoma River Greenway Access Points – Lebanon, NH

Approx. 18–20 miles
Type: River swimming & wading
More Info

Several informal access points along the Mascoma River where locals wade and swim during hot spells. Water levels can change quickly after rain.

Ottauquechee River – Woodstock Village Spots

Approx. ~6 miles
Type: River swimming & wading
Website

The Ottauquechee flows through Woodstock with a few easy access points:
• At the Lawn of the Woodstock History Center — shallow wading and swimming with views of the Middle Covered Bridge.
• Between the Recreation Center and Little Theater — family-friendly sandy riverbank and waist-deep swimming.

Silver Lake State Park – Barnard, VT

Approx. ~16 miles
Type: Lake beach with amenities
When: Seasonal with parking/entry fees
Website

A well-appointed lake beach with sandy shore, picnic tables, snack bar, playground, and facilities — more “beach day” than remote swim spot.

Cedar Circle Farm / White River Access – East Thetford, VT

Approx. 17–18 miles
Type: River swimming & wading
More Info

Swimming access along the White River near East Thetford, often used by locals for cooling off after hot days. Conditions vary by water level.

Union Village Dam / Ompompanoosuc River – Thetford, VT

Approx. 22 miles
Type: River & dam swimming area
More Info

A broad swimming area with calmer water near the dam, popular with locals. Best during lower water levels and warm weather.

Boston Lot / Boston Pond (Lebanon, NH)

Approx. 16–18 miles
Type: Natural pond / conservation area
When: Daylight hours; summer swimming
Website

Boston Pond is located within the Boston Lot, a large conserved forest area just outside downtown Lebanon. The pond is peaceful and scenic, with informal access for swimming on warm days. A great choice for guests who enjoy quieter, more natural spots paired with a walk in the woods.