Mead's Quarry Lake
A stunning, free quarry lake offering refreshing swims, scenic trails, and a unique floating boardwalk. Perfect for a natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Mead's Quarry Lake
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, free quarry lake offering refreshing swims, scenic trails, and a unique floating boardwalk. Perfect for a natural escape.
"Spectacular, refreshing and free! Swim at your own risk."
🏊 Swim at Your Own Risk
No lifeguards on duty. Bring life jackets for kids and be aware of steep drop-offs.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Three parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early mornings or weekdays for easier access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Refreshing Quarry Swim
The Lake
Dive into the cool, clear waters of this stunning natural quarry. Perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Floating Boardwalk
On the Lake
Relax on the unique floating boardwalk, complete with ladders for easy lake access. Great for lounging and enjoying the view.
Scenic Nature Trails
Surrounding Area
Explore miles of beautiful nature trails offering picturesque views of the quarry and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Swim Smart: Quarry Safety First
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏊 Swim at Your Own Risk
No lifeguards on duty. Bring life jackets for kids and be aware of steep drop-offs.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Three parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early mornings or weekdays for easier access.
🐶 Leash Up Your Pup
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed unless they are swimming.
👟 Water Shoes Optional
Comfortable for walking on small rocks, but not strictly necessary for swimming.
Meads Quarry - Paddle boards
Tips
from all over the internet
🏊 Swim at Your Own Risk
No lifeguards on duty. Bring life jackets for kids and be aware of steep drop-offs.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Three parking lots fill up fast! Aim for early mornings or weekdays for easier access.
🐶 Leash Up Your Pup
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed unless they are swimming.
👟 Water Shoes Optional
Comfortable for walking on small rocks, but not strictly necessary for swimming.
🛶 Bring Your Own Floats
While rentals might be limited, bringing your own paddleboard or float is a great way to enjoy the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mead's Quarry Lake being a beautiful, free spot for swimming and enjoying nature. The floating boardwalk and scenic trails are highlights, though some note parking can be challenging and rental access for watercraft might be restricted. It's a refreshing escape with a natural, uncrowded feel, especially if you visit during off-peak hours.
"Pretty cool place. Big boardwalk to sit on and relax. They have trails that allow you to walk around the quarry as well. Parking lot has plenty of parking and there is a decent snack bar"
Jonathan Ellis
"Spectacular, refreshing and free! Swim at your own risk. No lifeguards so bring your floaties. There are 3 parking lots to use but it fills up fast. Dogs need to be on a leash unless swimming. There are walkways or decks that float on the water. A small sandy beach and shore for kiddos. Water shoes aren't necessary unless you can't walk on small rocks. They have restrooms but no showers. Beautiful nature trails. Family friendly. Oh and did I mention it's FREE! Open dawn to dusk. Enjoy."
Mia L
"absolutely beautiful area, lovely lake and perfect temps (mid july right now) for swimming. We enjoyed the view and had a light lunch on the floating platforms."
Sylvia Bennan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mead's Quarry Lake is located in South Knoxville, Tennessee. It's accessible by car, with multiple parking lots available. The Ijams Nature Center is nearby and can serve as a landmark.
Yes, there are three parking lots. However, they tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transport options might be limited directly to the quarry. It's best to check local Knoxville transit schedules, but driving is the most common method.
Yes, dogs are allowed at Mead's Quarry Lake, but they must be kept on a leash at all times, unless they are actively swimming.
Restrooms are available near the gravel parking lot, offering basic facilities for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mead's Quarry Lake is a free public access area, making it a fantastic budget-friendly destination for swimming and recreation.
The quarry is generally open from dawn to dusk, offering ample time to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities.
Since it's a free public space, no advance booking or tickets are required to enter Mead's Quarry Lake.
You can bring your own floats, paddleboards, and kayaks. However, be mindful of park rules regarding pets and general conduct.
While some rental services may operate nearby, it's advisable to check with local outfitters like River Sports Boat Rentals for current availability and pricing, as access can sometimes be restricted.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Swimming is at your own risk as there are no lifeguards. The quarry has steep drop-offs, so caution is advised, especially for children.
You can swim, paddleboard, kayak, relax on the floating boardwalk, and explore the surrounding nature trails.
Yes, there is a small sandy beach area and shore that is suitable for children.
While tempting, jumping from rocks is generally discouraged due to the inherent risks associated with quarry swimming and potential for unseen hazards.
The area is noted for handicap access, making it more inclusive for visitors with mobility challenges.
📸 📸 Photography
The floating boardwalk offers unique perspectives, and the surrounding nature trails provide scenic backdrops. The quarry itself, with its clear water, is also very photogenic.
Absolutely! The natural beauty, lake, and trails make it a great location for family photo shoots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or Ijams Nature Center for any restrictions before flying a drone.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing serene shots. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
While not specifically for photographers, events like the 'Underwater Basket Weaving Workshop' offer unique visual opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Mead's Quarry Lake: From Parking to Play
Community feedback highlights the importance of personal safety. Visitors are strongly advised to swim at their own risk and consider bringing life jackets for children. While water shoes aren't strictly necessary for everyone, they can be helpful for navigating the small rocks along the shore. The quarry also hosts unique events, such as the 'Underwater Basket Weaving Workshop,' which offers a truly distinctive experience for participants.
For those with pets, dogs are welcome but must be leashed unless they are swimming, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors. Recreational Activities and Community Insights
Travelers often share tips on maximizing their experience. Early mornings are frequently cited as the most peaceful time to visit, offering a serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit