Natural swimming hole
Fugitive Beach
Quarry · Missouri
About this swimming hole
A former limestone quarry turned water park about 8 miles south of Rolla on Highway 72, with spring-fed blue water (pond dye added), a 60-foot water slide, 10- and 20-foot cliff jumps, and a sandy beach. Opened in 2014 by former Rolla police chief Mark Kearse, it was named one of America's best swimming holes by Business Insider and draws tens of thousands of visitors each summer.
Good to know
| Water type | Quarry |
|---|---|
| Depth | deep quarry; shallow section for younger swimmers |
| Best season | Memorial Day-Labor Day |
| Fees | Paid admission |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Sun 10am-6pm; Mon and Wed-Sat 11am-6pm; closed Tue; seasonal |
| Parking | on-site lot off Highway 72 |
| Amenities | water slide, cliff jumps, sandy beach, bar & grill, cabana rentals, life jacket rentals, beach volleyball |
| County | Phelps County |
| Nearest town | Rolla |
| Safety notes | lifeguards on site per visitor reviews; no alcohol, glass, or open containers |
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 Fugitive Beach?
Yes — Fugitive Beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Missouri. Heads-up: lifeguards on site per visitor reviews; no alcohol, glass, or open containers. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Fugitive Beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Fugitive Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Fugitive Beach?
Reported fee info: Paid admission. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Fugitive Beach?
The best season is typically Memorial Day-Labor Day.