Family Fun     PlacesTo Go Guide    

Hudson Valley Swimming Holes and Beaches



Looking for place to cool off this summer? Let nature be your guide!

Cool down and take the family swimming in the great outdoors! The Hudson Valley has so many beautiful lakes to offer, many of which have been made into private and state parks available for public day use and camping.

Dutchess County 

Lake Wilcox. 1639 Rte. 199 Stanfordville. 845-758-6100. Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. Two lakes offer swimming and paddle boat rentals, fishing and playground. Amenities: Showers, toilets, pavilion rental, playground and snack bar. Lifeguards on duty.

Orange County

Central Valley Pond. Large paved swimming area with diving boards. Picnic area, changing room and restrooms also available. Open to Woodbury residents with park pass.

Ulster County

Big Deep. Route 212, Woodstock. Popular swimming hole in Ulster County. Park and take the trail down to the pool. Jump off the rocks or take your turn on the rope swing.

Sullivan County 

Hanofee Park. Liberty. Swimming, fishking, tennis, baseball, playground and more at this popular family- friendly town park.

...click HERE to see the full list.



Other articles by HVP Top Lists


  • Hudson Valley Maple Sugar Events

    A round up of some of the best maple sugar tours and events in the Hudson Valley

    It's Maple Sugar season and many local sugar bushes are opening their doors for public events and tours read more »
  • Indoor Play Spots

    We've picked the best play spots in the Hudson Valley that your family is sure to love!

    Weather can be unexpected and ruin an outdoor play date with rain or snow, but with these indoor playgrounds, nothing can interrupt the fun and let your children's imaginations run wild! read more »
  • Hudson Valley Winter Farm Markets

    The very best in local, fresh produce

    Most farm markets are closed in the colder months. We found a few where you can still get great product. read more »
  • Indoor spots for teens to play

    Older kids need to have some play time too

    Teens need places to go that aren't lame and won't bore them to tears. We have the best in the Valley listed just for you. read more »
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations

    3 spots where you can go

    Commemorate the life and work of Dr. King, who was a Baptist minister and prominent leader in the American civil rights movement. read more »
  • Top Places for sledding, tubing and skiing

    Skiing, Sledding, and Tubing... oh my! Hudson Valley families gear up for outdoor winter fun

    Enjoy various winter activities with the family at these amazing winter fun spots in Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan and Orange County, NY read more »
  • Hudson Valley Sweet Shops

    Top places to grab a sweet treat, birthday cake and more

    Need a birthday cake? A sweet cookie reward for a great report card? Or just a break to indulge in a sweet treat? Find out where the favorite bakeries and candy shops are in the Hudson Valley. read more »
  • Best places to bowl in the Hudson Valley

    Take the family and have a ball

    List of bowling alleys in the Hudson Valley read more »
  • Christmas Tree Farms of the Hudson Valley

    A round-up of all the best places to cut your perfect Christmas tree

    Take some time this winter to visit a Christmas tree farm. You and your family can plan an outing to choose the perfect tree that will adorn your living room! read more »
  • Santa Sightings

    Great places to take the kids to see Santa in the Valley

    You better watch out, you better not cry! You better not pout I'm telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town! We have the best places to get the kids out to see Santa with our list of events. read more »