Harold Hall Quarry Beach

About

Former quarry offering a swimming area, picnic tables, snack options and volleyball courts.

As a natural, spring-fed quarry, Harold Hall Quarry Beach's water temperature is not regulated or heated. The temperature fluctuates seasonally and daily based on ambient air temperatures and sunshine, typically starting cooler in early summer and warming up as the season progresses. Specific temperature readings are not consistently provided as it is a natural body of water.

What are people saying (AI review summary)? Halls Quarry elicits mixed reviews, often praised for its nostalgic, 'old school' charm, fresh water (though some contradict this), fun slides, and play area, making it a favorite 'day-cation' for families with younger children. Many appreciate the shaded picnic spots, generally reasonable pricing, and available discounts. However, significant criticisms include severe parking issues, with staff being unhelpful regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities without visible tags. Several reviewers found the experience heavily geared towards toddlers to age 7, leading to boredom for older children and teens, and felt this was poorly communicated. Customer service is inconsistent, with some lifeguards described as having 'attitude' and lacking attentiveness. On crowded days, long wait times to enter are common, and some visitors reported dirty water and even concerning instances of drug use, severely detracting from the family-friendly atmosphere. Concessions are cash-only, and some feel the overall value is poor given these negative experiences.

Location

Gallery

Amenities

• Good for Children
• Parking Lot

Reviews

Listing Reviews

July 18th, 2025

Jenna Campos

When we arrived, the parking lot was completely full except for the handicap spaces. I do have a valid handicap parking pass from Florida, but I didn’t have it with me that day. I sent my daughter to ask a staff member what we could do, and they told her that if I parked in the handicap space without the tag, it wasn’t their liability or problem if I got a ticket — and the only other option was to park downtown. Downtown parking would’ve meant a long walk back or me sitting in the car and missing the whole thing, which defeats the purpose of buying tickets ahead of time. The lack of accessible parking options and unwillingness to accommodate or even offer a solution was really disappointing. I wish Halls Quarry had been more clear about the experience being geared toward younger children. We were visiting from out of town and bought tickets ahead of time, expecting more variety or engagement for older kids or teens — but it definitely wasn’t what we hoped for. Most of the activities and setup seemed more appropriate for toddlers to maybe age 7. If you have older kids, they’ll likely be bored quickly. It would’ve been really helpful if this had been communicated more clearly on their website or promotional materials, especially for families traveling from out of town who are trying to plan their trip and spend their money wisely.

August 9th, 2025

Eric Cortez

I like this place come here a lot shout out to all the old n new life guards came here as a kid now I'm bringing my kids

July 18th, 2024

Stephanie “The Chicago Mom”

Like an old school blast from the past! Nothing feel quite like summer loving then this beach with it’s fresh water with a few fun slides and play area right on the beach. There’s some shade spots, so you can totally pack a picnic but come early, a great way to spend the day. Very reasonably priced but grab a Groupon when you can. A favorite of ours they have a discount night price one day a week or two. It’s very chill here which we love. Great family “Day-cation” for Chicagoland area folks. A picture perfect picnic in the nw burbs. 2024 Updated pics In review.

June 29th, 2025

Melanie Shetler

I wouldn’t recommend this place to my worst enemy. Came here today on a hot Sunday and it was packed- which was to be expected. Lifeguards have attitude and act like they don’t like their job and a lot of the guy lifeguards don’t pay attention. Had one lady letting people into the place- she was super nice! But come on? It’s the weekend? We waited 45 mins to get in. Not to mention, we start setting up, and the people behind us are snorting cocaine. Super family friendly- NOT!!! The water was pretty dirty for supposedly being a “quarry” will not be back especially for the price it cost to get in. Save your money and go visit Pearl Lake Beach in Wisconsin for $5 more.

June 25th, 2025

Laura Hill

Came on a Monday right at open. Season pass holders receive 30 mins early access so arriving right at opening was a good plan as parking spots were already starting to fill up. It was a very hot day so a bit crowded but felt manageable. Line for concession was long and it is cash only.