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No, you can't swim in Devil's Pool at the Wissahickon. Really

Friends of the Wissahickon, the city Parks and Recreation Department and police want it known that it's illegal to swim or wade in Devil's Pool and that they will be increasing their presence to ensure compliance.

People congregate at the top of the rocks and cliffs at Devil’s Pool in the middle of the Wissahickon Creek June 28, 2017. Some people jumped off into the refreshing waters below. Area residents say the foot traffic has gotten out of control and some are calling for the 15-foot watering hole to be filled in with rocks. Complaints include: out of town cars parked on lawns, trash and people urinating on their property. CLEM MURRAY / Staff Photographer
People congregate at the top of the rocks and cliffs at Devil’s Pool in the middle of the Wissahickon Creek June 28, 2017. Some people jumped off into the refreshing waters below. Area residents say the foot traffic has gotten out of control and some are calling for the 15-foot watering hole to be filled in with rocks. Complaints include: out of town cars parked on lawns, trash and people urinating on their property. CLEM MURRAY / Staff PhotographerRead moreClem Murray / File Photograph

Devil's Pool, off the Livezey Lane trail head, has been a draw for years.  But it's become an even bigger attraction through social media.

However — as with all Philadelphia's rivers and streams — it is not a designated swimming area, so there are no lifeguards or support nearby in case of an accident.  Officials fear someone will drown there.  Also objects submerged in the water present a danger and the poor water quality can result in skin infections or gastrointestinal issues.

Instead, officials suggest residents take advantage of free city pools when the season opens June 20.

In addition, there is no designated parking area for Devil's Pool, which means drivers jockey for spots at the trail head. But parking in that area is prohibited because it serves as the only possible access lane for emergency vehicles.

"The 14th Police District will be working to make sure that regulations are observed by strictly enforcing all code and parking violations at Devil's Pool and the surrounding park areas in an effort to prevent injuries and to enhance the overall quality of life for nearby residents," said John Hearn, captain of the 14th District.

Officials also say alcohol, fires, littering, and graffiti are prohibited.  And dogs must be leashed.

"It's an ongoing problem," said Laura Feragen, a spokeswoman for Friends of the Wissahickon. "It's not private property. It's public land. The idea of a park is that it's supposed to be a place that everyone can enjoy. They just want people to be safe. But you can't put a big fence up around it to keep people out."