Natural swimming hole
St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach
Quarry · Alabama
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
The recreational centerpiece of the park preserving Alabama's territorial capital (1817-1819) is a 70-acre former quarry lake with a sandy beach, a shallow section for children and a very deep end the park describes as bottomless. The park is transitioning the beach toward a quieter model, with reports of limited daily tickets during refurbishment and a shift toward overnight-guest use - verify current public day access and reopening before going. The park also has over 15 miles of trails, RV and primitive camping and boat launches on the lake and the Tombigbee River.
Good to know
| Water type | Quarry |
|---|---|
| Depth | Shallow section for children and a deep end described by the park as 'bottomless'; no depth guarantee |
| Best season | May-September |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours; verify current beach access before visiting |
| Parking | Parking inside the park at 2056 Jim Long Road, St. Stephens |
| Amenities | restrooms, campground, picnic tables |
| County | Washington County |
| Nearest town | St. Stephens |
| Safety notes | Verify reopening and whether day visitors may still use the beach before going; deep quarry water drops off sharply beyond the shallow section; no lifeguard guarantee |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach?
Yes — St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Alabama. Heads-up: Verify reopening and whether day visitors may still use the beach before going; deep quarry water drops off sharply beyond the shallow section; no lifeguard guarantee. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach?
The best season is typically May-September.
Is St. Stephens Historical Park - Quarry Lake Beach safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: Verify reopening and whether day visitors may still use the beach before going; deep quarry water drops off sharply beyond the shallow section; no lifeguard guarantee. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.