Splash: Southeastern Swimming Holes by Pancho Doll

The latest Splash Guide covers one or more swim holes in 91 southeastern creeks and rivers in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Most choices involve a short hike to reach the natural pool, some involve more difficult scrambling or longer hikes.

All sites have been personally visited by the author and rated for season, difficulty of approach, family and dog use. Several lie near the Appalachian Trail. Pancho features the best, most pristine plunges, but he also makes shorter comments about other choices in each area.

"His motto: ‘I get lost, so you don’t have to.’"
~National Geographic Adventure

280 pages, 5-½ x 8-½ Full-color cover, 150 photographs, 90 maps with GPS coordinates, index. Published by Running Water Press. ISBN 0-9657686-3-5
trade paper

Here’s Where to Jump In

Secluded waterfalls, remote two-person tubs and hidden pools. Clothing optional spots are noted. Icons tell dog owners if four-legged hikers are appropriate and families can tell at a glance if the journey is a good one for the little dippers.

GPS users appreciate latitude and longitude notes, but even if you don't use satellite navigation, the maps set a standard for clarity and ease of use. Send in proof of purchase to register on the website, then print individual maps from the screen, so instead of carrying the whole book, you take only the page you need.