REDGRANITEQUARRY

About Redgranite Quarry

Tucked into the heart of central Wisconsin near the small town of Redgranite, this former granite quarry has transformed over the decades from an industrial worksite into one of the region's most striking natural swimming destinations. What was once carved out by the hands of quarry workers is now filled with Redgranite Lake — a deep, hauntingly clear body of water framed by sheer exposed granite walls that rise dramatically from the surface. The result is a swimming hole unlike anything you'll find at a typical lake beach, raw, geological, and genuinely awe-inspiring.

The Setting and Landscape

Standing at the edge of Redgranite Quarry, you immediately sense the weight of the place's history. The exposed granite walls, streaked with mineral hues of gray, pink, and rust, plunge straight into the water below, creating a visual drama that changes with the light throughout the day. In summer, the surrounding vegetation presses in with deep greens, and the contrast between the living landscape and the ancient stone is striking. Come autumn, the scene transforms entirely — the rocky outcroppings are framed by bursts of amber, orange, and crimson foliage that reflect off the glassy surface of the water. Even in the quieter weeks of spring, the quarry holds a moody, contemplative beauty that rewards visitors willing to make the trip before the summer crowds arrive.

Swimming in the Quarry

The water at Redgranite Quarry is cold, clear, and deep — plunging to over 100 feet in places. On a hot Wisconsin summer afternoon, the chill of the water is a genuine shock to the system in the best possible way. Visibility reaches far below the surface, giving you a glimpse into the quarry's geological depths that is equal parts beautiful and humbling. The site attracts adventurous swimmers and diving enthusiasts drawn by the dramatic drop-offs and the unusual underwater landscape of granite formations. Because the terrain is rocky and the water is deep with no gradual entry points, this is not an ideal spot for young children or inexperienced swimmers. Proper footwear for navigating the rocky shoreline is strongly recommended, and visitors should exercise caution at all times, as there are no lifeguards or safety personnel on site.

Practical Visit Information

Redgranite Quarry is one of Wisconsin's rare no-fee swimming destinations, meaning you can experience this remarkable site without paying an entrance charge. However, that also means you'll find no facilities here — no restrooms, no picnic tables, no concessions. Pack everything you need before you arrive: water, snacks, towels, and sturdy shoes for the rocky terrain. The site is accessible by car, making it a straightforward day trip from much of central Wisconsin. Parking is informal, so arrive early on summer weekends to secure a spot before things get busy.

Plan Your Visit: Redgranite Quarry is located just outside the town of Redgranite in Waushara County, roughly an hour and a half north of Madison and about an hour west of Green Bay. The town of Redgranite itself offers basic services, and the nearby communities of Wautoma and Berlin provide additional dining, lodging, and supply options for a longer stay in the region.