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💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool  ·  Western NC / Piedmont border

South Mountains State Park (Jacob Fork River / High Shoals Falls)

📍 Connelly Springs
Nearest Town
✅ Free
Entry Fee
💧 Cool river water
Water Temp
🟡 Moderate
Difficulty
📅 Spring–fall
Best Season
⚠️ Safety Notice — Read Before Visiting
As with other tall NC waterfalls, treat the immediate base and any area above High Shoals Falls with caution — verify official park guidance on how close swimming is permitted to the falls themselves.
💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool 🟡 Moderate Free Entry ⚠️ Safety Note
🌊 About South Mountains State Park (Jacob Fork River / High Shoals Falls)

Jacob Fork River tumbles through a rugged gorge creating a series of swimming holes, capped by the dramatic 80-foot High Shoals Falls.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
✅ Free
Water Temperature
💧 Cool river water
Best Season
📅 Spring–fall
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
River gorge with swimming holes below an 80-ft waterfall
Managed By
NC State Parks (South Mountains SP)
County
Burke County, North Carolina
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
3001 South Mountains Park Ave, Connelly Springs, NC 28612

Access Notes:
Moderate trail along Jacob Fork River; use caution near the base of High Shoals Falls

GPS Coordinates
35.5975, -81.6372
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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