Jamison Road Quarry
Swimming hole in Mackinaw City, Michigan · Quarry
A guide to the unofficial Jamison Road Quarry swimming hole in Michigan. Find directions, safety tips, and what to expect at this natural quarry.
About Jamison Road Quarry
Tucked away in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near the straits country between Mackinaw City and Cedarville, Jamison Road Quarry is one of those places that feels like a genuine secret — a former industrial rock quarry that time and rainfall have slowly transformed into a hauntingly beautiful natural swimming hole. The rugged stone walls that once echoed with the sounds of machinery now rise above still, clear water, draped at their edges with encroaching greenery. It's the kind of place that rewards the curious traveler willing to venture off the well-worn tourist path.
The Setting and Landscape
Arriving at the quarry, you're immediately struck by the contrast between the raw, angular quarry walls and the soft, lush vegetation that has reclaimed the surrounding terrain. Mosses cling to exposed rock faces, wildflowers push through the gravel margins, and birdsong fills the air in a place that was once all diesel engines and blasting powder. The water itself — fed by groundwater and precipitation over many years — sits clear and still, its depths shifting from shallow turquoise near the edges to a deeper, darker blue toward the center. Wildlife sightings are common here; keep your eyes open for birds of prey circling the rim or small mammals moving through the undergrowth. The atmosphere is quiet and unhurried, drawing visitors who are looking for solitude rather than a scene.
Swimming at Jamison Road Quarry
The water is clear enough that you can watch your feet disappear beneath you as depths increase toward the quarry's center. Like most quarry swimming holes, the temperature can be noticeably cooler than a lake or river on a hot summer day — a bracing shock that quickly becomes a relief when July humidity presses down on the Upper Peninsula. The quarry walls and uneven rocky shoreline mean you'll want to pick your entry point carefully and wear water shoes if your feet are sensitive. There are no ropes, platforms, or designated swim areas, so you bring your own judgment to the water. The varying depths make this a spot better suited to confident swimmers.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer (June-August) for warm weather and ideal swimming conditions; Spring (April-May) for blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds; Fall (September-October) for stunning foliage and cooler temperatures.
- Access Moderate; easy to access via car, but terrain around the quarry can be uneven and requires sturdy footwear.
- Facilities No formal facilities available; visitors should bring their own supplies, including towels, water, and snacks.
Highlights & features
- Clear water with varying depths
- Scenic quarry setting
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Accessible via scenic route
- Historical industrial site turned natural retreat
- A reclaimed industrial site turned natural swimming hole
- Combination of rugged quarry walls and lush greenery
- Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere for solitude
How to get there
Jamison Road Quarry is a scenic swimming hole located in Michigan, near Mackinaw City and Cedarville. Follow these step-by-step directions to reach the site:
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Starting Point: Mackinaw City
Begin your journey in Mackinaw City and head north on Interstate 75 (I-75).
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Cross the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which spans the Straits of Mackinac. Continue on I-75
After crossing the bridge, continue driving north on I-75 for approximately 15 miles.
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Take Exit 359
Look for Exit 359 and take it to merge onto Route 134 (RT 134) heading east toward Cedarville. Drive East on Route 134 Travel on Route 134 for about 10 minutes. You will cross the Pine River via a bridge. This is a key landmark to note. Turn Left onto St. Ignace Road Immediately after crossing the Pine River bridge, turn left (north) onto St. Ignace Road. Turn Left onto Jamison Road After a short distance on St. Ignace Road, turn left again onto Jamison Road. Follow Jamison Road to its end. Arriving at Jamison Road Quarry At the end of Jamison Road, you will find the old rock quarry, which has filled with water and serves as a swimming hole. Parking is available near the quarry, but spaces may be limited during busy times. Be sure to park responsibly and avoid blocking access for others.
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Additional Notes
The quarry is a natural site, so there may not be formal facilities such as restrooms or changing areas. Plan accordingly. Exercise caution when swimming, as the depth and underwater terrain can vary. Respect the environment and pack out any trash you bring to help preserve the site for future visitors. Enjoy your visit to Jamison Road Quarry!
Plan your visit
Use the nearby towns of Mackinaw City and Cedarville as your base. Mackinaw City, located at the tip of the Lower Peninsula just across the Mackinac Bridge, offers lodging, dining, and ferry access to Mackinac Island. Cedarville, a quiet village on the Les Cheneaux Islands waterway in the Upper Peninsula, provides a slower-paced alternative with access to some of Michigan's most scenic inland waters. From either town, you're well positioned to make Jamison Road Quarry part of a broader Upper Peninsula adventure.
Use the nearby towns of Mackinaw City and Cedarville as your base. Mackinaw City, located at the tip of the Lower Peninsula just across the Mackinac Bridge, offers lodging, dining, and ferry access to Mackinac Island. Cedarville, a quiet village on the Les Cheneaux Islands waterway in the Upper Peninsula, provides a slower-paced alternative with access to some of Michigan's most scenic inland waters. From either town, you're well positioned to make Jamison Road Quarry part of a broader Upper Peninsula adventure.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, unsanctioned site with no known facilities or on-site management. Access and conditions can change. There is no stated fee, but this does not guarantee it is free. Always respect private property boundaries and posted signage.
This is an unofficial, unsanctioned site with no known facilities or on-site management. Access and conditions can change. There is no stated fee, but this does not guarantee it is free. Always respect private property boundaries and posted signage.
Frequently asked questions
Is JAMISON ROAD QUARRY free to visit?
JAMISON ROAD QUARRY is generally free to access. No entry fee is commonly reported, though parking passes or day-use fees can be introduced — always confirm current rules before heading out.
Is swimming allowed at JAMISON ROAD QUARRY?
Yes, JAMISON ROAD QUARRY is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is JAMISON ROAD QUARRY?
JAMISON ROAD QUARRY is a quarry on Quarry located in MI, near MACKINAW CITY. A guide to the unofficial Jamison Road Quarry swimming hole in Michigan. Find directions, safety tips, and what to expect at this natural quarry.
When is the best time to visit JAMISON ROAD QUARRY?
The best time to visit JAMISON ROAD QUARRY is Summer (June-August) for warm weather and ideal swimming conditions; Spring (April-May) for blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds; Fall (September-October) for stunning foliage and cooler temperatures.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at JAMISON ROAD QUARRY?
Reported facilities at JAMISON ROAD QUARRY include: No formal facilities available; visitors should bring their own supplies, including towels, water, and snacks.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Jamison Road Quarry reflects Michigan’s industrial heritage, showcasing how nature can reclaim spaces once dominated by human activity.
Conservation
Visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the quarry’s beauty. Pack out trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect the natural surroundings.