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 Corn Mazes

    Local farms offer corn mazes, hayrides and more family fun this October

    Many local farms offer hayrides, corn mazes and additional family fun attractions this October. Great family fun is waiting to be had. read more »
  • 10 family-friendly Halloween movies to stream

    Grab some cider and popcorn

    There is nothing better than ending a night of trick or treating snuggled up on the couch with a good Halloween movie. So, grab some cider and popcorn we have a great list of 10 movies your family will love. read more »
  • Family Friendly Leaf Peeping in the Hudson Valley

    Enjoy the changing of the leaves before it's too late

    We asked local Hudson Valley Moms what their leaf-peeping spots are and compiled a list of favorite family friendly places for fall foliage sightings in the Hudson Valley read more »
  • Halloween Events for Families

    Spooky local events bring screams, laughs and fun!

    As Summer leaves us and Fall swoops in, the atmosphere around us changes. Here in the Hudson Valley, there are several locations that offer fun, scares, candy, and costumes that the whole family can enjoy. Make this Halloween season one to remember. read more »
  • Fall festivals and fairs

    Celebrate the season with your family

    Taking the family to local fall festivals and fairs offers fun activities, delicious food, and a chance to enjoy autumn together. read more »
  • Drive-In Movies in the Hudson Valley

    Treat the family to a night out at the movies

    Going to the Drive-in for a double feature has always been a Hudson Valley summer tradition. It is great family fun to get in your car and watch fun movies on huge outdoor screens. Grab your bug spray and blankets and head out to one of these local drive-in theaters! read more »
  • The Best Cider Donuts in the Hudson Valley

    The most delicious family favorite fall treats revealed

    We asked the experts (our readers of course) to let us know where we can find the best cider donuts in the Hudson Valley read more »
  • Top Hudson Valley Dog Parks

    A roundup of our favorite parks for our fur-babies

    Our human children aren't the only ones who enjoy the great outdoors, open grassy fields and a playdate with friends. Take your pooch to one of these great local dog parks for an afternoon playdate read more »
  • Your top pick picnic spots

    Here are your picnic destinations for Dutchess, Orange, Ulster and Sullivan counties

    Picnics are a great way to spend a day with the family. Try some of the spots we have listed this weekend! read more »
  • Best of pick your own peaches in the Hudson Valley

    A county by county list of places to pick peaches!

    We've put together a list of places for your family to go pick juicy peaches! Get ready to make peach jam, salsa, chutney, and cobbler. read more »