If you’re looking for summer fun, there’s something about deep blue water. Sand between your toes and the summer sun shining down on you makes for an absolutely stupendous day. We have several swimming holes and beaches in Ohio that make summer fun for the whole family. If you want to travel a little more off the beaten path or are researching “swimming quarry near me,” then consider visiting a deep-water Ohio quarry lake. With spring-fed water and deep blue pools, the following are some of our favorite quarry lakes in Ohio where you can swim, scuba dive, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds us.

Note that many of these quarry lakes are seasonal, so make sure to check with the lake’s website for opening dates each year!

1. Nelson Ledges Quarry Park: 12001 Nelson Ledge Rd, Garrettsville, OH 44231
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park, 12001 Nelson Ledge Rd, Garrettsville, OH 44231, USA
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park/Facebook
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville is a family-owned and operated park. Here, you can swim, scuba, snorkel, camp, and more, right by the stunningly beautiful quarry. Festivals and other events often take place here, so make sure to check the park's calendar for a schedule of events. This place has some of the clearest water in Ohio — seriously, how gorgeous is that turquoise?! This place feels like a tropical paradise.

2. Centennial Quarry: Sylvania Township, OH 43560
Centennial Quarry, Sylvania Township, OH 43560, USA
Centennial Quarry/Facebook
This deep-water, spring-fed swimming hole is a hidden gem for visitors. Many locals consider it their best-kept secret! The quarry has a sandy beach that features diving platforms, water toys, a slide, log roller, swim rafts, sand volleyball courts, and even a basketball court. This Ohio quarry lake proves you don't have to be by the ocean to have a great beach!
3. Natural Springs Resort: 500 S Washington St, New Paris, OH 45347
Natural Springs Resort, 500 S Washington St, New Paris, OH 45347, USA
Natural Springs Resort/Facebook
This place was once Stone Quarry but now it's a family-fun destination in southwest Ohio. The gorgeous spring-fed lake makes a fun swimming hole for day visitors and campers alike. You can also rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat to enjoy the water from a whole new vantage point. Right by the beach, you'll also find a heated swimming pool and two water slides.

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4. The Peninsula Quarry, 1980 OH-303, Peninsula, OH 44264
The Peninsula Quarry, 1980 OH-303, Peninsula, OH 44264, USA
The Peninsula Quarry/Facebook
If you're from northeast Ohio, you're probably familiar with this lovely swimming hole. You can purchase a daily swim pass here that will allow you day-long access. Visitors can enjoy cliff jumping and springboard diving, but flotation devices are not permitted.
5. Gilboa Quarry: Blanchard, OH 45875
Gilboa Quarry, Blanchard, OH 45875, USA
Gilboa Quarry, Inc./Facebook
This limestone quarry is one of the most popular spots for scuba diving and snorkeling in northwest Ohio. However, it's also a great place to swim, and you can purchase a day pass for day-long access. There are also camping, RV hookups, and even cottage rentals available if you want to turn your adventure into an overnight excursion.

6. White Star Quarry: Madison Township, OH 43431
White Star Quarry, Madison Township, OH 43431, USA
whitestarquarry.com
Most people don't know that there's a stunning sapphire quarry hiding in Sandusky County. Tucked away in the small town of Gibsonburg, Ohio, you'll find White Star Quarry. This is a little-known diving resort that Buckeye State explorers will love. In the summer months, there is a designated swim area and beach that is available to visitors for a fee.

Have you ever swam in any of these Ohio quarry lakes before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences, so share your stories in the comments!

We are lucky to have so many great swimming spots in Ohio, so make sure to get out and enjoy some this summer!

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Summer In Ohio

Lisa Sammons | May 12, 2022

What are some of the best swimming spots in Ohio?

Some of the best swimming spots in Ohio include:

  • Tappan Lake
  • Salt Fork Lake Beach
  • Cedar Point Beach
  • Kelleys Island State Park Beach
  • Lakeview Park Beach
  • Headlands Beach State Park

 

We're so lucky to have so many great swimming spots in Ohio. There's nothing like cooling off in some cool blue water in a natural swimming hole on a hot day. It can get really muggy here in the Buckeye State, so anything to lower the temperature can certainly help!

Are there any water parks in Ohio?

Some of the best water parks in Ohio include:

  • Kings Island Soak City
  • Cedar Point Shores
  • Zoombezi Bay
  • Kalahari Resorts
  • Great Wolf Lodge
  • Fort Rapids

 

In addition to our wonderful natural swimming holes, we've also got plenty of great water parks in Ohio! These are family-friendly options for getting out and making the most of a hot day.

What are some good day trips in Ohio?

Some good day trips in Ohio include:

  • Cedar Point Amusement Park
  • Put-in-Bay
  • Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
  • The Wilds

 

There are plenty of places to go in Ohio, particularly if you have a full day or a weekend. Cedar Point Amusement Park is often called the roller coaster capital of the world and with good reason — the park's 365 acres contain plenty of rides. It's a great option if you're looking for thrills!

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