Is swimming allowed at Beaverdam Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Beaverdam Falls.

Live Conditions · 81 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Beaverdam Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Beaverdam Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Beaverdam Falls.

Q: Are there fees or permits required for Beaverdam Falls?

Yes, there is a fee of $10.00. A permit is also required. A reservation acts as a permit to access the property. Visitors must book in advance and follow all guidelines provided by the property owner.

Virginia

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Beaverdam Falls

Beaverdam Falls is a picturesque, privately owned cascade tucked into a quiet Virginia woodland. Its gentle tiers and shady plunge pools make it an attractive short escape for photographers and day-hikers; most visitors reach the viewpoint via a moderate out-and-back trek of roughly 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain. Camping is available nearby — Steel Bridge Campground sits about 8.13 km from the falls, making it easy to time early-morning light or late-afternoon colors with an overnight stay. Because the falls are on private property, please respect landowner boundaries, use any posted access routes, and follow Leave No Trace practices while enjoying the scenery.

The Setting

Beaverdam Falls sits at 1,798 feet along the Potts Creek, in the hills of Virginia.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows a wooded path to the falls and is a relatively short, well-traveled hike suitable for most moderately fit hikers. USFS trail name/number and surface/grade/class data are not provided in the available information.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with a beautiful waterfall cascading into a clear pool. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and photography.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Beaverdam Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $10.00
Permit required
A reservation acts as a permit to access the property. Visitors must book in advance and follow all guidelines provided by the property owner.

🏊 Is There Swimming at Beaverdam Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and fall are ideal times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the surrounding foliage enhances the beauty of the area. Summer is also popular, but it may be busier.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should stay on the designated trail to avoid slipping on wet or uneven surfaces. Be cautious near the waterfall, as rocks may be slippery.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Roaring

81 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

66 101 270 434

Based on 88 years of record

2.39 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

POTTS CREEK NEAR COVINGTON, VA

USGS 02014000

11.6 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 153 sq mi

Altitude: 1,273 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Beaverdam Falls is located near Covington, Virginia. Visitors must make a reservation in advance to access the property, as it is privately owned. Directions are typically provided upon booking.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available on-site for visitors with reservations. The parking area is limited, so carpooling is recommended.

Elevation

1798 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.670680° N, -80.240896° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Make sure to book your reservation in advance, as access is restricted without one. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

STEEL BRIDGE CAMPGROUND

5.1 miles away · 3 sites

Reservable

Overview Steel Bridge Group Campground provides old-fashioned, rustic group camping for those that require few amenities. There are three well shaded camping sites for available for small group camping. Recreation Steel Bridge Group Camping provides old-fashioned, rustic group and family camping. Visitors enjoy splashing in the cool water of Potts Creek that edges the campground. Potts Creek is a stocked trout stream and has a small swimming hole as well as many rock ledges and small falls to pla

Book on Recreation.gov