Summer in the Laurel Highlands means water. Confluence sits where the Youghiogheny, the Casselman, and Laurel Hill Creek all meet, which means you are never more than ten minutes from somewhere you can swim, wade, or float. Here are ten spots locals actually use. Bring a towel, bring friends, and please pack out what you pack in.
On the Youghiogheny
- Ramcat Access. The classic. Gravel beach, rock slabs, deep pools. A short drive from the town square.
- The confluence footbridge pool. Walk down from town. Shallow on the edges, deeper in the middle, kids love it.
- The Yough tailwater below the dam. Cold water year round. Better for wading and fishing than a full swim, but the icy shade in August is magic.
On the Casselman
- Upriver from the town square. A short walk and you are in quieter water. Good for a quick dip when you do not want to drive.
- Harnedsville area pullouts. A few miles up, less crowded, bigger pools.
On Laurel Hill Creek
- Laurel Hill State Park beach. Lifeguards in season, sand, picnic tables. The family-friendly pick.
- Route 653 pullouts. Pull off, scramble down, find your own rock. Very Laurel Highlands.
On Yough Lake
- Outflow Recreation Area. Sandy swim beach and a boat launch. Busy on July weekends, quiet on weekday mornings.
- Jockey Hollow. Rocky coves and an afternoon breeze.
- Tub Run Recreation Area. Our pick for sunset swims. Park, walk a few minutes, usually have it to yourself.
Safety, Obviously
Currents change with the weather. Life jackets are the difference between a good story and a bad one. Watch kids, scout from shore before you jump, and know where your phone has signal. If you are floating more than a mile, shuttle with Riversport so you actually make it home.
Swim all ten in a summer and we are buying you a coffee at Tissue Farm.
Pair this with our 48-hour Confluence itinerary and the Yough Lake summer guide.