First-Timer’s Guide to Open Swim at the Quarry at Carrigan Farms
If you are looking for a unique and refreshing way to enjoy the summer in North Carolina, the Quarry at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville should be at the top of your summer bucket list! Located just 30 minutes north of Charlotte, this natural, spring-fed quarry offers a scenic swim experience surrounded by granite cliffs and a sandy beach. Whether you want to jump from the rocks, swing into the water, or float in the cool, clear depths, this is one of the best places to make the most of a summer day. Here is everything you need to know before visiting for the first time.
What to Expect at the Quarry
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms is a privately owned, spring-fed swimming hole that reaches depths of 25 feet. Formed from a former granite mining site, it is now a safe and scenic swimming destination. The water is naturally cold, clear, and clean, offering a crisp relief from summer heat.
Visitors can spend the day enjoying a number of activities. Rope swings and rock ledges offer thrill-seekers a chance to take the plunge from varying heights. The sandy beach area provides space for volleyball, lounging, sunbathing, or relaxing with a book. Floating in the still water is always a relaxing option! Feel free to swim at your leisure or bring small, personal inflatable floats.
Safety is a priority at Carrigan Farms. Lifeguards are on duty during all open swim hours. All guests must wear life vests unless they are age 12 or older and have passed the farm’s swim test. The environment is family-friendly, and the rules are strictly enforced to maintain a safe atmosphere for everyone.
When to Go and What to Bring
Open Swim for the 2025 season begins on Saturday, May 17, and continues daily throughout the summer. Hours of operation begin at 10 a.m. and continue until sunset. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online in advance. Entry is located at the West Entrance of Carrigan Farms, at 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Highway in Mooresville.
Carrigan Farms is a cash-only venue. This includes both entry and on-site purchases, so visitors should plan accordingly. Each online reservation includes a $5 voucher to use at the Quarry Kitchen.
Guests should bring a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, water shoes or flip-flops, and something to sit on, such as a chair, mat, or beach blanket. There are no rentals for these items, so planning ahead is key to a comfortable experience.
Food Options: The Quarry Kitchen
The Quarry Kitchen serves a selection of farm-fresh meals and snacks to keep swimmers fueled throughout the day. Options include burgers, hand-tossed pizzas, fresh salads, and frozen treats. The kitchen uses produce and ingredients sourced from the farm whenever possible, and the menu offers something for a wide range of tastes.
Each online reservation's $5 food voucher can be used toward any menu item. Because all purchases are cash-only, bringing extra cash is advisable, especially if you are visiting with a group or plan to spend the day.
Alino’s Pizzeria in Downtown Mooresville, NC
Things to Do in Mooresville After Your Swim
Once you’re done swimming and chilling at the Quarry, there are plenty of things to eat, do, shop, and see in Mooresville! The area offers a variety of attractions worth checking out. Just 5 minutes from Carrigan Farms, you’ll find Downtown Mooresville. This area is known for its locally owned shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can explore antique stores, grab a slice of pizza at Alino Pizzeria, or cool off with a scoop from the historic Mooresville Ice Cream Company.
Mooresville, also known as Race City USA, is home to several motorsports-related attractions. The North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame and JR Motorsports give racing fans a behind-the-scenes look at the local NASCAR scene.
For those seeking more outdoor activities, Lake Norman State Park is a short drive away and offers hiking trails, paddle rentals, and scenic views along the shoreline of North Carolina’s largest man-made lake.
Aloft by Hilton in Mooresville, NC
Where to Stay in Mooresville
Visitors looking to stay overnight will find several hotel options within Mooresville. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Mooresville/Lake Norman offers suites with extra space and complimentary breakfast, making it a solid choice for families. Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte/Mooresville provides traditional accommodations with a full-service restaurant and indoor pool. Tru by Hilton Mooresville offers a modern, budget-conscious stay with free breakfast, while Candlewood Suites Mooresville is ideal for longer visits thanks to its in-room kitchenettes.
All of these hotels (and plenty more!) are located within Mooresville and are a short drive from Carrigan Farms, making them convenient for quarry visitors.
The Quarry at Carrigan Farms offers one of the most distinctive and refreshing swimming experiences in North Carolina. With clear spring-fed waters, scenic granite cliffs, and a peaceful farm backdrop, it is a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike. By planning ahead and coming prepared, first-time visitors can enjoy a safe, fun, and memorable summer day — and discover even more to love about Mooresville along the way.