Minnesota summers can be hot and sticky, making the only desirable activity swimming in your local lake or beach. If you’re looking for a different swimming hole, one that’s not right out in the open, you’re in luck! Just over an hour northwest of the Twin Cities, you’ll find the town of Waite Park, which is home to one of the most amazing secluded swimming holes. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve will quickly become your favorite swimming spot in the state! There’s plenty to do in this park, so be sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your stay.

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is a large park known for its natural beauty — and its swimming holes. You'll find it at 1802 Co. Rd. 137, Waite Park, MN 56387.
Keith Ewing/Flickr
As the largest park system in Stearns County, Quarry Park and Nature Preserve offers more than 650 acres of fun.
Susan Lueck/Flickr
Some of the beautiful natural features of this park include scenic woodlands, open prairie, wetlands, and quarried bedrock.
Dawn H/TripAdvisor
Trails throughout the park mean it's easy to enjoy the natural beauty of this are. There are trails for both hiking and mountain biking.
Keith Ewing/Flickr

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Other popular spots include prairies for fishing, granite reflecting pools, and — of course — the swimming quarries.
Keith Ewing/Flickr
Quarry #2 is a short hike from the parking lot and features 116-foot deep water surrounded by high rock cliffs. Many choose to jump off of them but do this at your own risk. There are no lifeguards on duty.
melissajK7520VY/TripAdvisor
Quarry #11 is the other swimming hole in Quarry Park and Nature Preserve. Here you’ll find a sandy beach and waters 40 feet deep. The sandy beach here is perfect for a day in the sun.
Carlos L/TripAdvisor
All in all, this beautiful quarry park is full of both natural and manmade beauty. Stop in for a hike, a swim, and a quiet day in the sun!
Keith Ewing/Flickr

Have you ever swam at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve? Let us know how you liked it below.

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Featured Addresses
1802 Co. Rd. 137, Waite Park, MN 56387