Sunburst Swimming Hole (also called Sunburst Rocks) is one of the most popular places to cool off during the summer in Western North Carolina. Located along NC Highway 215 near Bethel in the Pisgah National Forest, this beautiful swimming hole features a large, clear pool, a small sandy beach area, and the cold, refreshing waters of the West Fork Pigeon River.
Its easy roadside access makes Sunburst a favorite destination for both locals and visitors looking to escape the summer heat. Whether you want to spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing along the river, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery, it's easy to see why this spot has become one of Haywood County's best-known swimming holes.
As mountain locals, we've visited Sunburst many times over the years and have seen just how busy it can become on warm weekends. In this guide, we'll share everything you need to know before visiting, including parking, what to expect, swimming conditions, safety tips, and a few local insights to help you make the most of your trip.
Updated: 7/30/2026 - New information, photos, formatting, and Hurricane Helene updates.
Need to Know |
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Location: NC Highway 215, Pisgah National Forest, near Bethel, North Carolina |
Accessible: There are no official ramps or accessible facilities; however, with assistance, the beach area is roadside. |
Dog Friendly: Very dog-friendly |
Distance: Area is roadside. |
Difficulty: Easy |
Features: swimming, jumping, rope swing, fishing, and beach area |
Directions: Sunburst swimming hole is located just off Highway 215 near Bethel, NC. From the Parkway, take Highway 215 north for about 8 miles. Just before the bridge, you’ll see the swimming hole parking area on your right. |
Sunburst Swimming Hole
Sunburst Swimming Hole is a natural mountain water swimming hole, so the water is crisp, clear, fresh, and cold. Sunburst has two primary swimming areas.
- One has a large rock that you can jump off and plunge into the deep, cool waters. There is even a rope here that you can use.
- The second area is more beach-like, with shallows that slowly transition into deeper waters for swimming.
The shoreline of Sunburst Swimming Hole is unique as well, as it has a very beach-like feel to it, and makes for a great place to spread out a blanket, take in some sunshine, or even have a picnic.
Sunburst Swimming differs from Sunburst Falls, which is about 8 minutes further south on Highway 215. Visitors often get these two locations confused. Sunburst Falls is a roadside waterfall, and not a safe or good swimming hole.
During the summer months, Sunburst is a very popular location for both local families and vacationers to hang out and swim. On a typical weekend from June - August, you'll often find Sunburst very busy and parking on the roadside parking lot can be a challenge. If all the parking is full, drive down to Forest Srv. Rd. and park on the side there.
Is Sunburst Swimming Hole Worth Visiting?
Yes!
We've visited nearly every popular swimming hole in Western North Carolina, and Sunburst remains one of our favorites because it's incredibly easy to access, has room for both swimmers and families relaxing along the shore, and sits in one of the prettiest stretches of Pisgah National Forest. It's also not far from our home, just outside of Waynesville, so we visit often during the summer.
If you don't mind sharing it with others on summer weekends, it's absolutely worth the trip.
Local Tips When Visiting
Two of our kids when they were younger enjoying the cool waters!
Here' are a few tips to make your visit to Sunburst Swimming Hole more enjoyable:
- We recommend getting there early, or arriving later in the afternoon/evening to avoid the crowds and parking issues.
- There are no restroom facilities here.There are restrooms at the nearby campground, but in our personal experience, access is limited depending on who the campground host is.
- Bring some chairs and/or a blanket. There aren't many rocks to sit on, so chairs and/or a blanket will come in really handy.
- Bring a cooler with water, drinks, and snacks. There aren't really any stores nearby.
- Dogs are allowed, but should be on a leash per national forest rules. In our personal experience, dogs are often not on leashes.
- There are no lifeguards or officials here, so please watch your kids and pets. The water is deep further out, and there is a current.
Where to Stay When Visiting Sunburst Swimming Hole
Downtown Waynesville, NC in the spring
If you're planning a trip to Sunburst Swimming Hole, we recommend staying in either Waynesville or Maggie Valley. Both towns offer a great selection of hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals while providing easy access to NC Highway 215 and many of Western North Carolina's best outdoor destinations.
Our Pick: Waynesville
Waynesville is our recommended place to stay when exploring this part of Haywood County. Its vibrant historic downtown is filled with locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and unique boutiques, making it the perfect place to relax after a day by the river. Waynesville also provides convenient access to Sunburst Swimming Hole, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and many of the area's most popular waterfalls and hiking trails.
Also Recommended: Maggie Valley
Just a short drive from Waynesville, Maggie Valley offers a quieter mountain-town atmosphere with beautiful views and plenty of lodging options. It's an excellent choice if you also plan to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Waterrock Knob, Cataloochee Valley, or other nearby attractions. Staying in Maggie Valley gives you the best of both worlds—a peaceful mountain getaway with easy access to Sunburst and the surrounding region.
Whether you choose Waynesville or Maggie Valley, you'll be within about a 30-minute drive of Sunburst Swimming Hole, making either town an excellent home base for your mountain adventure.
