- Attraction: Quarry Park & Nature Preserve
- Location: 1802 County Road 137, Waite Park, MN 56387
- Industry: Park
- Website: https://www.stearnscountymn.gov/396/Quarry-Park-Nature-Preserve
Something truly extraordinary happens when abandoned granite quarries transform into crystal-clear swimming pools surrounded by towering red stone cliffs.
At Quarry Park & Nature Preserve in St. Cloud, Minnesota, you’ll discover what Travel Channel named among the “Top Swimming Holes in America” – a 757-acre wonderland where industrial history meets outdoor adventure.
This remarkable destination showcases 30 former granite quarries, with two designated for swimming that offer experiences unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly beach time or adrenaline-pumping cliff jumps, Quarry Park delivers an unforgettable day of natural beauty and recreational thrills.
Swimming Adventures & Cliff Jumping Thrills
Quarry 11 – The Family Haven: You’ll find Minnesota’s most welcoming swimming quarry complete with a genuine sandy beach that feels surprisingly coastal for the middle of Minnesota.
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Keep Exploring →The 40-foot-deep waters offer about ten feet of comfortable shallow area before dropping off, clearly marked for safety.
Short jumping ledges and a convenient dock provide easy water entry, while picnic tables and restrooms make this the perfect spot for extended family gatherings.
Quarry 2 – The Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Prepare yourself for the crown jewel of cliff jumping experiences. This 116-foot-deep quarry features dramatic red granite cliffs ranging from 10 to 24 feet high, offering heart-pounding jumps into pristine waters.
The surrounding rock formations create natural amphitheater seating where you can lounge and watch the brave souls take their leaps of faith.
Crystal Clear Waters: You’ll be amazed by the exceptional water clarity that fills these ancient granite pits.
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Discover MoreThe billion-year-old red granite walls create stunning reflective pools that maintain their pristine condition year-round. The water stays refreshingly cool even on the hottest summer days, providing perfect relief from Minnesota heat.
Safety & Swimming Tips: While no lifeguards are on duty, you’ll find well-marked depth indicators and warning signs throughout the swimming areas.
Life jackets are strongly recommended due to sudden drop-offs and deep waters. The rocky shores can be challenging to navigate, so water shoes prove invaluable for comfortable movement around the quarries.
Historical Significance & Natural Beauty
Granite Mining Legacy: You’ll walk through over a century of American industrial history as you explore the former St. Cloud Red Granite quarries that operated from the early 1900s until the 1950s.
This distinctive red granite was used in famous structures like the FDR Memorial in Washington D.C., the Landmark Center in St. Paul, and countless buildings throughout Minnesota.
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Keep Exploring →Liberty Derrick Exhibit: Discover the fascinating mining heritage through the restored Liberty Derrick display near Quarry 18. This 15-minute self-guided audio tour reveals the tools and techniques that carved these massive granite formations, bringing the quarry’s industrial past to life.
Diverse Ecosystems: You’ll encounter an impressive variety of plant life throughout the preserve, from towering oaks and aspens to rare yellow lady slippers, vibrant Indian paintbrush, and surprisingly hardy prickly pear cactus.
The protected Scientific and Natural Area showcases pristine prairie, wetlands, and oak woodlands that were minimally impacted by quarrying operations.
Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes open for the Red Shouldered Hawks that nest within the park – a species of special concern in Minnesota. The diverse habitats support an abundance of wildlife, making every trail walk a potential nature discovery.
Outdoor Activities Beyond Swimming
Extensive Trail Network: You’ll explore over 4.75 miles of well-maintained trails that wind through gravel paths, mowed grass sections, and natural two-track roads. The terrain varies from easy stroller-accessible routes to more challenging hiking paths that climb massive grout piles (stone waste heaps) for spectacular overlook views.
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Discover MoreRock Climbing Adventures: Experience some of Minnesota’s most unique climbing opportunities on the ancient granite formations. The quarry walls provide various skill levels of climbing challenges, with some areas specifically designated for rock climbing activities.
Fishing & Scuba Diving: You’ll find excellent trout fishing opportunities in several quarries, while certified divers can explore the underwater granite landscapes that create an otherworldly diving experience. Special permits are required for scuba diving activities.
Year-Round Recreation: Winter transforms the park into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paradise. When snowfall reaches four inches or more, the park extends hours until 10 PM specifically for winter sports enthusiasts.
Atmosphere & Unique Features
Dramatic Landscape: You’ll feel transported to a completely different world as you walk among towering granite walls and pristine water-filled quarries. The contrast between the rugged industrial remnants and nature’s reclamation creates an almost mystical atmosphere that photographers absolutely love.
Grout Pile Overlooks: Climb the massive hills of quarried stone remnants for breathtaking panoramic views over the tree canopy and quarry landscape. These artificial mountains provide some of the best vantage points in central Minnesota.
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Keep Exploring →Geocaching Adventures: You’ll discover hidden treasures throughout the park’s extensive geocaching network, adding an element of treasure hunting to your hiking experience. The varied terrain and numerous landmarks make this an ideal geocaching destination.
Seasonal Beauty: Each season brings distinct character to the park. Spring wildflowers carpet the prairie areas, summer brings peak swimming season, fall transforms the hardwoods into brilliant displays, and winter creates a serene wonderland perfect for quiet contemplation.
Visitor Information & Practical Tips
Parking & Permits: You’ll need to purchase a $5 daily parking permit or invest in a $20 annual pass that quickly pays for itself with regular visits. The main parking area provides easy access to all major quarries and trail systems.
Family Considerations: Families with young children gravitate toward Quarry 11 for its beach area and gentler entry points, while teenagers and young adults typically prefer Quarry 2 for its cliff jumping opportunities and more adventurous atmosphere.
Best Visiting Times: Arrive early on weekdays for the most peaceful experience, especially during summer months when the quarries can become quite popular. Wednesday mornings often provide the quietest conditions for families seeking a more relaxed visit.
What to Bring: Pack water shoes for comfortable movement on rocky surfaces, life jackets for safe swimming, plenty of drinking water for the trails, and sunscreen since the granite reflects sunlight intensely. Waterproof storage for valuables proves essential around the swimming areas.
Accessibility Notes: The main trails offer good accessibility, though some areas require navigation over uneven terrain. Strollers with larger rubber tires can handle most of the gravel paths successfully.
Quarry Park & Nature Preserve
📍 1802 County Road 137, Waite Park, MN 56387
