Dive Into Summer: The Ultimate Open Swim Experience Returns at Carrigan Farms 🌊☀️
If your idea of the perfect summer includes crystal-clear water, adrenaline-pumping jumps, and fresh farm-to-table food—then get ready. One of North Carolina’s most unique summer traditions is back, and it’s bigger, better, and cooler than ever.
Welcome to Open Swim at Carrigan Farms, where a hidden granite quarry transforms into a natural swimming paradise from May 16 through Labor Day 2026.
A Swimming Spot Like No Other
Forget crowded pools and predictable beach trips. This is something entirely different.
Tucked away in Mooresville, the quarry at Carrigan Farms is a spring-fed natural oasis, meaning the water stays refreshingly cool—even during the hottest summer days. The result? A swim experience that feels wild, scenic, and incredibly refreshing.
This isn’t just swimming—it’s an adventure.
What You Can Expect
Whether you're planning a chill day or an action-packed outing, Open Swim delivers:
- 💦 Cliff jumping & high dives for thrill-seekers
- 🌿 Rope swings for that classic summer vibe
- 🎣 Catch-and-release fishing nearby (bring your own gear!)
- 🏊♂️ Plenty of space to relax, float, and enjoy nature
It’s perfect for families, couples, and friend groups looking to escape the ordinary.
Plan Your Visit
Open Swim runs daily throughout peak summer months—June, July, and August—with flexible session times.
- 🎟️ Admission: $25–$40 per person (varies by time and date)
- 📅 Season: May 16 – early September
- 📲 Reservations: Strongly recommended
Pro tip: Weekdays and early-season visits are usually more budget-friendly—and less crowded.
Come Hungry 🍔🍓
One thing that sets Carrigan Farms apart? The food.
After working up an appetite in the water, you can grab delicious options right on-site:
- The famous Quarry Burger
- Freshly grilled chicken sandwiches
- Handmade pizzas and salads
- Sweet, juicy fruit cups
And don’t miss the farm’s pride and joy—fresh-picked sweet corn and strawberries. In fact, their strawberry season peaks in early May, making it a perfect pre-swim activity for families.
Feeling festive? They also serve:
- 🍹 Strawberry daiquiris made from their own berries
- 🍺 Beer, wine, and seltzers
(Just note: outside food isn’t allowed, and it’s a cash-only setup on-site.)
More Than Just a Swim Spot
Carrigan Farms isn’t just a summer destination—it’s a legacy.
This 5th-generation family-owned farm has been creating memorable experiences for decades. The quarry itself dates back to the 1960s, when mining operations uncovered a natural spring that filled the space with pristine water. Since the 1980s, it’s been welcoming guests for unforgettable events—and today, it remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Open Swim at Carrigan Farms isn’t just another summer activity—it’s the kind of place where:
-
You conquer your fear of heights
-
You laugh harder than usual
-
You unplug without even trying
It’s raw, refreshing, and real—the kind of experience that sticks with you long after summer ends.
