If you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip close to the Triad, RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls, nicknamed the Bullhole, needs to be on your radar. Nestled in Cooleemee, NC, just about 45 minutes from Winston-Salem and little more from Greensboro, this hidden gem on the South Yadkin River is one of the region’s best-kept outdoor secrets. Despite the giggles my kids had over the nickname (“Did you say butthole?”), by the time they slid down the rushing water over smooth river rocks, even they were calling it by its real name. This beloved spot offers the charm of a mountain river and the thrills of a waterpark, all without the hefty price tag.

If you haven’t heard of it before, the Bullhole is a local swimming hole created by a stone dam in the South Yadkin River.

What Is Cooleemee Falls?

Cooleemee Falls is a man-made waterfall created by a historic stone dam on the South Yadkin River. The result? A stunning and unique destination where the water spills into a wide, smooth rockbed below, forming gentle rapids, natural rock slides, and shallow pools perfect for tubing, swimming, and splashing. Local families have enjoyed the Bullhole for generations. Thanks to its blend of calm water near the bank and fun rapids for sliding, it’s perfect for all ages—as long as you’re ready to get wet!

Finding Your Way to the Falls

Located on the Davie and Rowan County line, RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls is just 15 minutes from Downtown Mocksville. Don’t let the quiet road or lack of early signage fool you—keep driving into the park, and you’ll find it. A short wooded trails to the left of the bathrooms at the main parking area lead you straight to the river. The walk is easy but includes a few stairs, so strollers and wagons aren’t ideal. If you need a more accessible route, drive straight at the main entrance and park in the lower lot by the woods (limited to about 15 cars). From there, it’s a flat, scenic walk along a cleared road to the impressive stone dam.

Bullhole Gate Fees

Visiting the Bullhole comes at a small cost, but it’s well worth it for a full day of adventure. An entrance fee is collected daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and on weekends during April, May, September, and October.

May – October Fees:

Monday–Friday: $5 per car | $3 per motorcycle
Saturday–Sunday & Holidays: $15 per car (up to 4 people) | $25 per car (5+ people)

Bullhole Annual Pass

Annual Pass: Cooleemee and Woodleaf residents can purchase an annual pass for just $50 at Cooleemee Town Hall. It offers unlimited visits and can be purchased starting in April for use in May.

Park Hours

Planning your trip? Be sure to check the seasonal park hours before heading out:

April – October: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
(Also open for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day)
November – March: Open Friday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
(Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)

Arrive early on weekends to snag a good parking spot and enjoy the river before crowds pick up! Also note the beach closes 30 minutes before the park hours.

Sandy Beach and Scenic Views

One of the coolest surprises at RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls is the sandy beach! Formed naturally by a storm flood and shifting river patterns, the size of the beach varies each year depending on rainfall. On a good year, the beach is wide enough for sunbathing, digging, and castle-building. Just don’t expect clean ocean sand—this is river beach sand, which can get messy. Dress the kids in old swimsuits and prepare for a car full of sand on the ride home.

Water Activities and Tubing Fun

The real draw at the Bullhole is the river itself. Just below the dam, smooth rock formations create natural water slides that kids (and adults!) can ride down again and again. The water is usually just a few inches deep in many spots, making it great for playing and wading. But don’t be fooled—some sections flow fast and strong. Portages are available for canoeing and kayaking.

Tubing is the most popular activity. Bring your own inner tubes or floats (those $4 Target ones are perfect), or rent tubes from local vendors when available—usually around $5 per hour. If you’re tubing with kids, stick to the side near the public beach where the current is calmer and easier to manage. The far side of the river is more intense and better for strong swimmers. There are also some parts of the river where adults can’t touch. Anyone who can’t swim should be in a lifejacket just to be safe.

What to Pack for a Day at the Bullhole

Treat your trip to River Park at Cooleemee Falls like a beach or pool day. Essentials include:

Bathing Suits
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water shoes or old sneakers (the river rocks are slippery!)
Towels and extra clothes
Life jackets or puddle jumpers for younger or less confident swimmers
Plenty of snacks and drinks

There are shaded picnic tables, benches, and restrooms onsite, but it’s a good idea to bring your own cooler and gear, especially since the nearest stores are 15 minutes away in Mocksville.

Safety First at Cooleemee Falls

While RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls is a blast, it’s still a real river with real risks. There are no lifeguards, and currents can be unpredictable depending on recent rainfall. Always supervise children, use flotation devices for young swimmers, and talk to your kids about what to do if they get caught in the current. I’d recommend having that conversation before you’re wading into the river, telling your 8-year-old to forget about saving the $4 inner tube and just swim to shore. If you’re going with multiple kids, bringing another adult or family is a great idea for extra sets of eyes and support.

Water Quality at Cooleemee Falls

Wondering if it’s safe to swim at the Bullhole this week? You can easily check current water quality conditions online before your visit. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Yadkin Riverkeeper monitors four popular recreation sites in the Yadkin Basin, including RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls. Samples are collected every Wednesday, and results are posted each Thursday at The Swim Guide.

Each site is tested for E. coli, following EPA standards of 235 colonies per 100 ml. Results are categorized by a color system:

Green: Safe—bacteria levels are below the EPA limit.
Red: Unsafe—E. coli levels are above 235/100ml.
Grey: No current data or test not available that week.

This is an easy and reliable way to make sure the water is clean for your kids to splash and swim. For more information, contact Yadkin Riverkeeper at (336) 722-4949 or email info@yadkinriverkeeper.org.

Best Time to Visit RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls

Want to avoid crowds? Head to the Bullhole on weekday mornings. It’s a favorite local hangout, especially on warm summer weekends, so it gets busy fast. Spring and fall visits are beautiful too, especially when the air is crisp, and the water is still warm enough to enjoy. Always check the weather and recent rain conditions before heading out—low water levels mean less sliding, and high water levels could make conditions too rough for little ones.

Plan Your Visit to the Bullhole Today

Whether you’re into riding little rapids, good fishing, or just relaxing riverside, RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls is a must-visit destination in Cooleemee, NC. This scenic spot offers a blend of natural beauty and adventurous fun that your whole family will love. Pack your gear, grab a few friends, and experience the magic of the Bullhole for yourself. About a 5 minute drive away if you’re on the hunt for another free family-friendly activity, Hursey’s Sculpture Park is a bunch of large wooden structures (pirate ship, swan, butterfly, helicopter, and more!) great for a photo op.

For hours, updates, and weather advisories, visit the official RiverPark website or check their Facebook page before your visit.

Park Rules

RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls is all about safe, clean fun—and that starts with everyone respecting the park rules. Here are the basics:

Above all: Keep it clean and be thoughtful of others. Good manners go a long way!
Wear old tennis shoes or water shoes in the river—granite bedrock can be slick from moss.
Swimming is at your own risk—there are no lifeguards on duty.
No grills or open fires. Picnics are welcome, and grilling is only allowed using the park-provided permanent grills at the main shelter.
No alcohol, drugs, or smoking are allowed on the premises.
Pets must be leashed—a maximum 10-foot leash is required at all times.
No glass containers in the park.

Visit their website and Facebook page for updates.

By Laura Simon updated by Sarah Marchwiany

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