The 4 Best Swimming Holes Near Buford

When the mercury rises near Buford, Georgia, during the long and languid summer, the air can feel like you stepped into a sauna. Those who know about the best swimming holes in the area do not keep to air-conditioned confines during these hot months. Rather, they take the opportunity afforded to them by the warm climate to enjoy the recreational opportunities provided by these cool waters to step off the beaten path and into a great swimming spot.

Chattahoochee National Forest

The Chattahoochee National Forest plays host to a number of great swimming holes, complete with waterfalls, wading pools, and nearby campgrounds with facilities. The Rabun Beach recreation area boasts two stair-step waterfalls, Panther Falls and Angel Falls, as well as a clearly delineated area for swimming at Lake Rabun. The lake itself is great for swimming, while the shallow sandy pool at Panther Falls allows an opportunity for younger children to safely wade and play in the gentle falling water.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is situated on the Tallulah River, a two-mile stretch of water that lies at the bottom of a spectacular gorge. In order to access the floor of this scenic gorge, visit the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center and obtain a permit. Find the center by following signs from the entrance to the park. With permit in hand, visit Bridal Veil Falls by following the signs along a trail. Beware as sections of the trail can be steep along the gorge, and wet by the river and falls.

Chattahoochee River

Just north of Atlanta and west of Buford runs a section of the famous Chattahoochee River that is home to numerous pools that are great for swimming. Stretches of the river that can run quite quickly down a series of rapids connect the pools. These swimming holes are a popular spot, often frequented by university students, and they can attract large crowds on hot weekends and summer holidays.

Mill Creek and Settingdown Creek

To avoid big crowds at popular swimming holes, venture off the well-worn path. Bring your spirit of adventure and prepare to explore hidden spots. Just north of downtown Woodstock is the Olde Rope Mill Park; it is a good point to set off to explore Mill Creek. Rainfall brings higher water, and the opportunity to find a little swimming hole of your own. Nearby Settingdown Creek is the site of an historic covered bridge and small spillways and waterfalls. These are just right for lounging and wading in when the days are hot. Settingdown Creek is just north of Heardsville on Poole’s Mill Road.

Whether a hidden offshoot of Lake Lanier or a creek-fed pool shaded by overhanging trees, these swimming holes dot the landscape within easy reach of Buford. These spots can be public lands playing host to fun-loving crowds, privately owned spring-fed pools where a modest admission buys a day filled with swimming fun, or serene places, perfect for relaxed contemplation amidst the stony remains of an old mill.