That Old Kingston Quarry People Snuck Into Is Now A Real Swimming Area

One of New York State's hidden gems has now been uncovered to everyone. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the completion of Lake Sophia Swimming Area at Sojourner Truth State Park in East Kingston, NY.

Each county in the Empire State has it's secrets that only the locals know about. If you are from town you know the best places to grab a bite to eat, you know which off the beaten path hiking trail leads to an amazing view, and you and your friends knew the best secret swimming holes in the area. One of those secrets is now open to the public.

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For decades, those who knew, would sneak into the private rock quarry located just north of Kingston Point Park and Hutton Brickyards to take a dip in what was an industrial site swimming hole.

On Friday Governor Hochul announced the completion of, the first new state park swim facility in more than 20 years, Lake Sophia swimming facility and bathhouse pavilion at Sojourner Truth State Park.

Governor.ny.gov

This facility features a swimming area larger than two Olympic-size swimming pools, Lake Sophia will accommodate hundreds of swimmers a day and help Kingston area residents safely cool off during increasingly hot summer months.

The new swim area of Sojourner Truth State Park is now open daily from 10a.m. – 6p.m. through Labor Day weekend.

Governor.ny.gov

Thanks to the voter supported Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, we are creating new opportunities for Hudson Valley residents ‘Get Offline, Get Outside’ and prioritize their wellbeing. The Lake Sophia swim area project is a major investment in community wellness and climate resilience, and an exciting addition to the New York State Park system. - Governor Kathy Hochul