About this spot
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park channels the Black River through narrow gaps in 1.5-billion-year-old volcanic rock, creating dozens of small pools, chutes, and natural water slides along a short, easy walk from the day-use parking area near Middle Brook. Many of the smoothed boulders double as informal jump and slide points, a use the park's own materials describe as part of the normal visitor experience. There is no lifeguard, and the polished rock is notoriously slick, so water shoes are strongly recommended and sold at the park store. Water levels and current strength shift with rain and upstream reservoir releases, occasionally closing sections, so check conditions before visiting. A modest entry fee applies, and the shut-ins area can hit capacity on summer weekends.