Anyone who’s spent summer in the Catskill Mountains knows that swimming holes are closely guarded secrets passed only through whispers between good friends. But never fear: locals and day-trippers bound for the Great Western Catskills of Delaware County don’t need to search too hard for a way to beat the summer heat and take a plunge.
Known for its rolling farmland, serene protected forests, and historic hamlets, Delaware County has long drawn artists, writers, and nature lovers looking for quiet beauty and room to roam. With a rich farming legacy, excellent farm-to-table restaurants, a vibrant arts, culture, and shopping scene, and easy access to outdoor recreation, there’s a reason the county continues to be a favorite destination for summer adventures.
From resort stays to serene paddling sessions, here are a few of the best spots for getting out on the water in the Great Western Catskills.
Freshwater Locales with Paddling Aplenty
Delaware County’s sparkling natural waterways offer endless opportunities for exploration.
Nestled in the hills near Andes, Little Pond is a state-operated campground with 67 tent and trailer sites and a 13-acre pond that feels like it’s worlds away. There’s a picturesque sand beach and swimming area, rentals for rowboat, paddle boat, kayak, and canoes, and a leisurely forested trail around the pond’s perimeter. The pond also has freshwater fishing access, and is minutes away from the world-renowned Beaverkill fly fishing stream.
In Halcottsville, Kayaking New York at Susan’s Pleasant Pheasant Farm offers kayak, row boat, and paddle board rentals for navigating peaceful Lake Wawaka. The serene waters offer an unhurried day on the water, complete with plentiful nature sightings and mountain views.
Downriver in Hancock, OARS (Outdoor Adventure Recreation Services) hosts tubing trips along the Delaware River with pick up and drop off at dedicated access points. With its mix of gentle currents, lush surroundings, and scenic overlooks, this stretch of river is ideal for relaxed summer adventuring. They also have kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals for use on the Cannonsville Reservoir.
Accommodations with Luxe Poolside Vibes
Looking to stay a few nights? Plenty of accommodations across Delaware County feature on-site pools that combine rustic Catskills charm with modern-day luxury.
The larger-than-life digs at the Roxbury at Stratton Falls feel like they were taken directly from a Broadway stage, with eight fantastical tower cottages and a circa-1800s mansion with seven rooms that take their themes from the property’s storied past. Pair a dip at the Cooked Cabana Pool and Spa’s sparkling outdoor pool with a session in the hot tub or dry sauna for complete relaxation.
In Margaretville, Homestead Farm Resort offers a classic Catskills retreat with a family-friendly vibe with roots that stretch back to 1819. The charming 150-acre property has a cozy cottage, a seven-room motel, a large outdoor pool, and paddle and row boats on its private lake.
Want private access to an entire pool? Breezy Hill Farmhouse in Fleischmanns provides exclusive access to its pool to anyone who rents out its entire five-bedroom farmhouse located right next to the B&B. Enjoy a cozy getaway with friends or the family and take advantage of leisurely daytime swims.
Town Pools That Feel Like Hidden Gems
For those looking to take a splash with a lifeguard nearby, community pools in Andes, Delhi, Franklin, Stamford, Walton, and Downsville offer an easy way to get some time in the water. With a relaxed vibe and mountain views, all these public pools offer the best of summertime in a small town—plus several have swim lessons and additional programming all summer long.
Whether it’s kayaking in a river known for its exceptional trout fishing or reclining poolside drink in hand, Delaware County’s mix of wild beauty and approachable hospitality makes it a standout destination for summer adventures in the Catskills. For more inspiration on where to go and what to do in Delaware County, visit Greatwesterncatskills.com.
This article appears in July 2025.
