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

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

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 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.

4. The Fugitive Beach – Rolla

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

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 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.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/missouri/6-hikings-trails-beginners-mo/