Hot days in Missouri mean one of two things – staying cool in the A/C or heading outdoors to a cool spot to take a dip, preferably in the following quarries in Missouri. If you prefer the latter, you’ll find no shortage of spots to go swimming and soak up a day of fun in the sun. These six quarry lakes in Missouri provide an idyllic backdrop for a fun day.

1. Wakonda Lake – La Grange

Wakonda State Park, 32836 State Pk Rd, La Grange, MO 63448, USA
Missouri State Park
If you're looking for a spot for quarry swimming near you, you've just hit paydirt. Wakonda State Park's home to six quarry lakes, the largest of which is Wakonda Lake. If you like lounging on the beach, head over to Wakonda Beach, which spans a whopping 20,000 square feet. Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, or jump into the water to stay cool. The beach also features sand volleyball, a bathhouse, and restrooms. If you’d prefer to play on the water, you’ll find a boat ramp at Wakonda Beach, too.

2. Agate Lake - La Grange

Agate Lake Road, Agate Lk Rd, Union Township, MO 63448, USA
Kelly Kielsmeier / AllTrails
Another popular quarry lake at Wakonda State Park, Agate Lake is particularly popular for those who love spending time on the water. It, too, has a boat ramp, making it easy for you to slide your boat, kayak, or canoe into the water. You can also admire the lake when you set off on the 3.4-mile Agate Lake Trail. It takes you past one of the best lakes in Missouri.

3. Finger Lakes State Park – Columbia

Finger Lakes State Park, 1505 Peabody Rd, Columbia, MO 65202, USA
Missouri State Parks
Finger Lakes State Park promises a full day of adventure or relaxation, if you prefer kicking back on the sand beach. The quarry lake features clear, cool water, making it an ideal spot to cool down all summer long. If you prefer spending your time on the water instead of in it, head to the boat ramp. The lake is popular with electric motor boats (gas motor boats are prohibited), canoes, and kayaks. Do not swim near the boat launch.

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4. The Fugitive Beach – Rolla

The Fugitive Beach, 16875 County Rd 5285, Rolla, MO 65401, USA
The Fugitive Beach / Facebook
Pile the whole family in the car for a day of fun in the sun at The Fugitive Beach, in Rolla, a former quarry that now boasts a lake and a water park. Join the kiddos in the water for a cool down, or slide in from one of the inflatable slides. You can also start an impromptu game of beach volleyball, and grab a bite to eat at the Beach Bar & Grill.

5. Klondike Park – Augusta

4600 S Missouri 94, Augusta, MO 63332, USA
altheaoleander / TripAdviso
If you’re looking for a scenic spot to go fishing, you’ll find it at the lake at Klondike Park, the former site of a quarry. The park itself offers a full menu of fun activities – from a playground to picnic spots. You can even set off on one of the hiking trails for a relaxing hike or a bike ride.

6. Elephant Rocks State Park – Belleview

Elephant Rocks State Park, 7390, 7406 MO-21, Belleview, MO 63623, USA
Missouri State Parks
Elephant Rocks State Park draws visitors from Missouri and far beyond because of its impressive 1.5-billion-year-old granite rocks that look like a line of circus elephants. After you’ve explored Elephant Rocks, consider stopping by one of the quarry lakes. Go fishing or just enjoy the view. The state park also features playgrounds, picnic tables, and hiking trails.

What are your favorite quarries in Missouri? Have you been looking for a rock quarry near you? Now you’ve found one! If you enjoy exploring Missouri on those warm days, set off on one or more of these six scenic hiking trails in Missouri that are great for beginners. Be sure to grab a map from AllTrails+ before you head out.

6 Of The Greatest Scenic Hiking Trails In Missouri For Beginners

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More to Explore

Places To Swim In Missouri

Sarah M. | May 19, 2022

What are some beautiful swimming lakes in Missouri?

After taking the plunge into a quarry swimming hole in Missouri, you might be in the mood for your next big summer adventure. Looking for inspo? Check out these beautiful lakes in Missouri, which boast some of the most pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters in the state! Here are some beautiful swimming lakes in Missouri:

  • Lake Lincoln: One of our favorite places is Cuivre River State Park in Troy. One of the gems of the park is Lake Lincoln, the perfect summertime destination and one of the clearest lakes in Missouri. Soak up the sun as you sink your feet into the sand of the beach that leads into the crystal-clear water of the 55-acre lake. If you prefer spending time on the lake instead of in it, go kayaking or canoeing. Fishing is also allowed in the lake.
  • Stockton Lake: Another beautiful place to swim in Missouri is Stockton Lake. Nestled in Stockton State Park, Stockton Lake is an idyllic summertime destination, complete with a beach. However, the beach is gravel, so it's not quite as cozy as a sand beach. Bring along a beach chair if you want to be comfortable. This clear and pristine lake in Missouri is perfect for floating or swimming, although there isn't a lifeguard. Once you're cooled off, consider renting a sailboat, a kayak, or a canoe for some fun on the water.
  • Table Rock Lake: Finally, for crystal-clear waters that truly rival the Caribbean, head out to Table Rock Lake. Float, tube, or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Table Rock Lake when you visit Moonshine Beach. You might want to bring a picnic along too and spread out at one of the picnic tables overlooking the water. The beach also features a volleyball net and plenty of space to drop your beach chair or towel. When you get a bit too hot, you're just a few steps from the cool water of Table Rock Lake. What a wonderful place to spend a summer day in Missouri!

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