Chill out: The best places to swim in and around Charlotte

Looking for the top swimming destinations to beat the heat this summer? You’re not the only one!

Summer’s around the U.S. are getting blisteringly hot. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2024 marked the U.S.’s fourth hottest summer, and this trend is likely to continue. North Carolina is no exception from this heat, and many will be looking for ways to beat the oncoming unbearable warmth.

As the summer warms up, Charlotte offers plenty of refreshing spots for a swim or a cookout. Whether you’re seeking natural quarries, scenic lakes, or family-friendly pools, WCCB has you covered. Here’s a quick guide to seven of the top swim destinations in and around the Queen City, with current pricing and season details:

Swimming Destinations in Charlotte

1. The Quarry at Carrigan Farms – Mooresville, NC ($$$)

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A stunning, spring-fed quarry surrounded by rock walls and greenery. Perfect for open swim sessions or day trips.

• Admission: $Varies by date: $23-$40 per person (includes lifeguard supervision and life jacket rental)
• Season: May 17 – September 7
• Hours: Hours Vary
• Note: Ages 12+ only unless with private reservation, and admission not guaranteed without reservation

2. Ray’s Splash Planet – Uptown Charlotte, NC ($)

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An indoor waterpark featuring slides, sprays, a lazy river, and play areas. It is great for kids learning how to swim!

• Admission:
  • Mecklenburg County residents: $10/adult, $8/youth
  • Non-residents: $15/adult, $10/youth
• Season: Indoor Facility which is open year-round
• Hours: Times vary; Saturday: 10am-6pm

3. Ramsey Creek Park – Cornelius, NC (Lake Norman) ($$)

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Offers a sandy beach with lifeguards, picnic areas, and lake access.

• Admission:
  • $10 (Mecklenburg County residents), $15 (non-residents) per vehicle
  • $5 walk-in/bike-in
• Season: The beach’s opening will be Saturday, May 24th at noon. The beach will also be open Memorial Day on Monday, May 26th. This site will then be open weekends only until June 13th. Starting June 13th, the beach will open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
• Hours: 12pm-6pm

4. Lake Norman State Park – Troutman, NC ($)

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Known for its expansive lakefront and a 125-yard swim beach with scenic views and a picnic-friendly vibe.

• Admission: $6/adult, $4/child (ages 3–12)
• Season: Open May through early September
• Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

5. Cordelia Pool – Charlotte, NC ($)

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A seasonal outdoor public pool with lifeguards and designated family swim times.

• Admission:
  • Mecklenburg County residents: $1/child, $2/adult
  • Non-residents: $2/child, $3/adult
• Season: The pool’s opening will be Saturday, May 24th at noon. The pool will also be open Memorial Day on Monday, May 26th. This site will be weekend only until June 11th. Starting June 11th, the pool will open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
• Hours: 12pm-6pm

6. Lake James State Park – Nebo, NC ($)

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A pristine mountain lake about 1.5 hours from Charlotte, offering a beach area, clear water, and campgrounds.

• Admission: $6/adult, $4/child
• Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day
• Hours: 10am-6pm
• Bonus: Great hiking and paddling nearby

7. Hanging Rock State Park – Danbury, NC ($)

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Located about 2.5 hours northeast of Charlotte, Hanging Rock State Park offers a 12-acre lake with a sandy beach, surrounded by the scenic Sauratown.

• Admission: $6/adult, $4/child (ages 3–12)
• Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Note: Coolers are allowed but must be checked at the entrance; no glass permitted. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and a snack bar.

8. Double Oaks Family Aquatic Center – Charlotte, NC ($)

This aquatic center features a 25-yard pool, zero-depth entrance with play feature, and a slide. It’s the perfect location to entertain the kids!

• Admission: $2
• Season: The pool’s opening will be Saturday, May 24th at noon. The pool will also be open Memorial Day on Monday, May 26th. This site will be weekend only until June 11th. Starting June 11th, the pool will open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday.
• Hours: 12pm-6pm
• Note: Offers swim lessons.