The question of can you swim in the susquehanna river is a common one for residents and visitors alike, echoing through the warm summer months in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New York. It’s a simple query with a surprisingly complex answer, hinging on factors like water quality, recent weather, specific location, and personal risk tolerance. This guide dives deep into the realities of swimming in this iconic American waterway, exploring the known hazards such as bacterial contamination, the unpredictability of river currents, and how to identify safe public access points for recreation.
At over 440 miles long, the Susquehanna is the longest river on the East Coast, and its character changes dramatically from its headwaters in New York to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. This means that an experience in one section is not representative of the whole. We’ll unpack the data, listen to local knowledge, and provide you with a comprehensive framework to make an informed decision for yourself and your family in 2025.
What the Locals Say: A Glimpse from the Riverbanks
Talk to anyone who has lived along the Susquehanna for a few decades, and you’ll get a mixed bag of opinions on swimming. Many old-timers will fondly recall carefree summers spent splashing in the shallows, their stories painting a picture of an idyllic past. They speak of secret coves and rope swings, where the river was the heart of the community’s social life. These nostalgic accounts often downplay the risks, focusing instead on the sheer joy of a cold plunge on a sweltering August afternoon.
Conversely, a younger generation, more attuned to environmental reports and news headlines, often expresses more caution. They’ve grown up hearing about agricultural runoff, combined sewer overflows after heavy rains, and the legacy of industrial pollution. They’re more likely to stick to designated swimming areas, if any, or opt for kayaking and boating, where direct, prolonged contact with the water is minimized. This generational divide highlights the evolving understanding of the river’s health and the increasing importance of scientific data over anecdotal evidence. The conversation isn’t just about fun; it’s about health and safety.
The Big Question: So, Is it Safe to Swim in the Susquehanna River?
The definitive answer is not a simple yes or no; it’s a “yes, but…” Swimming in a natural, uncontrolled body of water like the Susquehanna always carries inherent risks that are absent in a chlorinated pool. The safety of a swim depends almost entirely on the specific location, the time of year, and the weather conditions in the preceding days. Generally, swimming is not officially recommended in many parts of the river due to variable water quality and the lack of designated, monitored swimming areas with lifeguards. However, people do swim in it every year. Understanding the specific risks is the first step toward doing so safely.
Understanding Water Quality: The Invisible Factors
The primary concern for swimmers is microbiological contamination. The Susquehanna’s vast watershed includes extensive agricultural lands and numerous towns and cities. After heavy rainfall, runoff can wash fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste into the river. More significantly, many older riverside communities have combined sewer systems, which can overflow during storms, releasing untreated sewage directly into the water. This introduces harmful bacteria like E. coli and other pathogens that can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and other health issues. Organizations like the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association often conduct water quality monitoring, and their reports are an invaluable resource for checking current conditions before you even think about getting in.
The Role of Weather and Rainfall
The river’s safety is directly tied to the weather. A long stretch of dry, sunny weather is your best friend. During these periods, the water flow is typically lower and clearer, and bacteria counts tend to drop as they are exposed to sunlight and die off. Conversely, the 24 to 72 hours following a significant rainstorm are the absolute worst times to consider swimming. The water becomes murky, or turbid, filled with suspended sediment, and flushed with contaminants from the watershed. This turbidity not only hides potential underwater hazards but is also a strong indicator that bacteria levels are dangerously high. A good rule of thumb is to always wait at least three days after heavy rain before entering the water.
Physical Hazards: Currents, Depths, and Debris
Beyond the invisible threat of bacteria, the Susquehanna poses very real physical dangers. The river is deceptively powerful. Even in areas that appear calm on the surface, strong undercurrents can be present, especially around bridge pilings, dams, and confluences with tributaries. The riverbed is also highly unpredictable; it can drop off suddenly from ankle-deep to well over your head in a single step. The bottom is often littered with a combination of natural and man-made debris. This includes slippery rocks, sharp shale, and unfortunately, legacy trash like broken glass or metal. The riverbed composition itself is complex; understanding the natural arrangement of these materials is crucial for stability. This is somewhat analogous to homeowners asking is river rock good for drainage for their property, as both scenarios involve how water interacts with a stone-based surface.
Where are the Best Spots for a Dip in the Susquehanna?
Finding a safe and legal place to swim can be challenging, as officially sanctioned beaches are rare along the Susquehanna. Most swimming occurs at informal, “at your own risk” locations. It’s crucial to prioritize spots with clear visibility, calm and shallow water, and easy entry and exit points. Areas with stagnant, scummy water or a noticeable odor should be avoided at all costs.
Designated Parks and Public Access
Some state and local parks along the river offer public access for boating and fishing, and in some cases, wading is tolerated. Places like Shikellamy State Park in Northumberland or locations around City Island in Harrisburg are popular for river access. While these aren’t designated swimming beaches with lifeguards, they often have boat launches or shoreline areas where families gather to cool off. Before heading out, always check the specific park’s regulations, as rules can change. For instance, a specific location like the area near [200 n river st wilkes-barre pa 18711](https://rollocks.co.uk/river/200-n-river-st-wilkes-barre-pa-18711/) might have its own local advisories or historical context regarding river access that you should be aware of. Researching your exact destination is a non-negotiable part of planning.
Popular Unofficial Spots
Locals often have their favorite “swimming holes,” which are typically unofficial and unmonitored. These might be gravel bars, small islands, or calm inlets away from the main channel. While these spots can be beautiful, they require extra caution. You are entirely responsible for your own safety. Never swim alone in these locations, and always let someone on shore know your plans. It’s also vital to be aware of your surroundings. Unlike the remote, wild nature of other famous rivers, where the core question might be where is the river of no return, the Susquehanna’s dangers are often closer to civilization, involving pollution and sudden changes in depth.
Expert Opinion from Dr. Alistair Finch, Environmental Hydrologist:
“The Susquehanna is a living, breathing system that changes daily. The biggest mistake people make is assuming the spot that was safe last week is still safe today. A single thunderstorm miles upstream can radically alter water quality and flow downstream. Always check the data before you go.”
A Deeper Dive: The Primary Risks You Need to Know
To truly understand the question, can you swim in the susquehanna river, one must confront the specific risks head-on. These dangers are not meant to scare you away entirely but to equip you with the knowledge to make safer choices. The difference between a refreshing dip and a serious health issue often comes down to awareness.
Bacterial Contamination Explained
When we talk about bacteria, we’re primarily concerned with pathogens from human and animal waste. E. coli is the most commonly tested indicator bacterium. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, its presence indicates that fecal contamination has occurred, meaning other, more dangerous germs like Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Norovirus could also be in the water. Swallowing even a small amount of contaminated water can lead to severe diarrhea, vomiting, and other illnesses. Those with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and young children are at the highest risk.
The Legacy of Industrial Pollution
The Susquehanna watershed has a long history of industrial activity, most notably coal mining. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a significant and persistent pollutant in many of the river’s tributaries, particularly on the West Branch. This drainage leaches heavy metals like iron, manganese, and aluminum from abandoned mines into the waterways. While the main stem of the Susquehanna is large enough to dilute these contaminants to levels generally considered safe for incidental contact, it’s a stark reminder of the river’s industrial past. Areas where tributaries with orange-tinted water (a sign of AMD) enter the main river should be avoided for recreation.
Navigating Strong Currents and Changing Depths
The power of the Susquehanna’s current should never be underestimated. The average flow is around 25 billion gallons per day, and this can increase exponentially after rainfall. Even strong swimmers can be quickly overcome. Low-head dams, often called “drowning machines,” are exceptionally dangerous. The hydraulic circulation at the base of these dams can trap a person underwater, making escape nearly impossible. Furthermore, the river’s depth can be incredibly deceiving. A sandbar you stood on yesterday could be gone today, scoured away by a rising current overnight. Always enter the water feet first to check the depth and never dive headfirst. Public awareness of these dangers is critical. While morbid curiosity often leads people to search for information like how many bodies have been found in the susquehanna river, it’s important to channel that concern into preventative safety measures. Most river-related fatalities are preventable and often involve boating accidents or underestimating the current, rather than issues with casual swimming in calm areas.
How to Swim Safely in the Susquehanna: A Practical Guide
If, after weighing the risks, you decide to swim, following a strict safety protocol is essential. This isn’t about taking the fun out of it; it’s about ensuring you can come back and enjoy the river again tomorrow. Carelessness is the river’s greatest accomplice.
Checking Real-Time Conditions
Your first step should always be to check the latest information. Visit the websites of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) and the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper. They often provide data on river flow rates, turbidity, and sometimes, recent bacteria test results. Also, check the National Weather Service for any active flood warnings or high-water advisories in the region. If the river is high and muddy, stay out. It’s as simple as that. The water should be clear enough for you to see your feet when you’re standing knee-deep.
Essential Gear and Precautions
Never swim alone. The buddy system is non-negotiable in a river environment. For children and inexperienced swimmers, a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is a must, even when just wading. Water shoes or old sneakers are also highly recommended to protect your feet from sharp rocks, glass, and other hazards on the river bottom. The smooth, often slippery nature of the stones on the riverbed can be a hazard. The challenge of keeping these natural surfaces safe is a constant theme, whether in a river or a home setting, which is why people often look for guides on how to clean river rock shower floor to manage similar slippery conditions.
Expert Insight from Dr. Alistair Finch:
“Think of it this way: you wouldn’t walk into a busy street without looking both ways. Before you get in the river, you need to ‘look’ at the data. Check the flow, check the turbidity, and check for any recent rainfall. It takes five minutes and it could prevent a serious illness.”
What to Do After Your Swim
Your safety routine doesn’t end when you get out of the water. As soon as possible, rinse off with clean water from a bottle or a portable shower. Pay special attention to washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating. It’s also wise to clean out any cuts or scrapes you may have received and apply an antiseptic. If you or anyone in your group develops symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, or a skin rash within a few days of swimming, contact a healthcare provider and inform them that you were recently swimming in the river.
Answering Your Top Questions About Swimming in the Susquehanna
Navigating the dos and don’ts of river recreation can be confusing. Here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions, helping you make a more informed decision before you head to the water’s edge.
What time of year is best for swimming?
Late summer, typically from late July through early September, often offers the best conditions. This period usually coincides with lower water levels, warmer temperatures, and more stable, dry weather patterns. Spring is generally the worst time, as melting snow and frequent rain lead to high, cold, and fast-moving water with a high pollutant load.
Are there any specific parts of the river to avoid?
Absolutely. You should always avoid swimming downstream of a wastewater treatment plant outfall or in urbanized areas immediately after a rainstorm due to the high likelihood of combined sewer overflows. Stay far away from the intake and discharge channels of power plants. And most importantly, never swim or even wade near any kind of dam, especially low-head dams.
Can children swim in the Susquehanna?
This requires extreme caution and constant, vigilant supervision. Children are more susceptible to waterborne illnesses and can be easily swept away by a current. If you choose to let them in the water, it should only be in very shallow, slow-moving areas, and they must wear a life jacket. Ensure they know not to swallow the water. For very young children, it is likely wisest to let them splash at the immediate edge and not venture any deeper.
Ultimately, the decision rests on a careful evaluation of the conditions on the specific day you want to go. While the Susquehanna River offers incredible beauty and recreational opportunities, it demands respect. By arming yourself with knowledge, checking real-time data, and adhering to strict safety protocols, you can mitigate the risks. For many, the answer to can you swim in the susquehanna river can be a cautious “yes,” provided you prioritize safety above all else. It is a place for adventure, but one that requires a healthy dose of preparation and respect for the power of nature.
Comments
Name: Brenda Caldwell
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Comment: We waded in the shallows near the Shikellamy State Park marina last August, and it was lovely. The water was clear and not too cold. I wouldn’t go out deep, especially with the kids, but for splashing around on a 95-degree day, it was perfect. Just be sure to wear water shoes; the rocks are very slippery.
Name: Mark Jennings
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: I’ve been kayaking and swimming in the Susquehanna for over 20 years, mostly north of Harrisburg. The key is to know your spots and watch the weather. Never, ever go in after a storm. I have a few favorite gravel bars where the water is clean and you can relax for hours. It’s a beautiful river if you respect it.
Name: Samantha Peterson
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆
Comment: My son and I went for a quick dip near our town after a moderate rain a few years back, not thinking much of it. Big mistake. He came down with a nasty stomach bug that night that the doctor was pretty sure was from the water. We won’t be doing that again. Stick to a pool.
Name: David Chen
Rating: ★★★★☆
Comment: Took a swim off a friend’s boat in the middle of a wide, slow-moving section in late July 2024. The water felt great. We were far from shore and the current was manageable. I wouldn’t swim from the bank in most places due to the mud and rocks, but out in the channel, it was a fantastic experience.
Name: Maria Gonzalez
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Comment: It really depends on where you are. Some of the tributaries are horribly polluted from old mines. The main river is better, but I’m still hesitant. We sometimes let our dog swim, but we always give him a very thorough bath right after we get home.
Name: Frank Miller
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Comment: The problem is the inconsistency. One day it seems fine, the next it’s a muddy mess. There’s just no way to be 100% sure what’s in the water without a lab test. I’ll stick to fishing from the shore. It’s too much of a gamble for me and my family.
Name: Chloe Dubois
Rating: ★★★★☆
Comment: My friends and I love tubing down the section near Goldsboro. We’re in the water for hours. We try to go during dry spells and always shower off afterwards. Never had a problem in the five years we’ve been doing it. It’s one of the highlights of our summer.
Name: Ben Carter
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Comment: I’m a biologist. While a quick dip on a perfect day is probably low-risk, people need to be aware of the invisible dangers. The bacteria levels can spike to unsafe levels very quickly. If you have any open cuts or a weak immune system, I would strongly advise against it.
Name: Olivia Russo
Rating: ★★★★★
Comment: We went to a little public access spot near Tunkhannock on Labor Day weekend 2023. It was a beautiful, clean gravel bar. Dozens of families were there, kids were splashing, everyone was having a great time. It felt perfectly safe and was a wonderful way to end the summer.
Name: Tom Schmidt
Rating: ★☆☆☆☆
Comment: Saw a news report about a sewer overflow upriver from us a day before we were planning to go out on our boat. It’s disgusting what gets dumped in there. We cancelled our trip. I will not swim in that water until there are major infrastructure improvements.
