News Summary
Augusta Quarry has reopened following an $11 million renovation, introducing new amenities aimed at enhancing visitor experience and safety. With features like upgraded trails, a floating beach platform, and improved parking facilities, the quarry is now more accessible. However, new safety rules regarding floaties have sparked confusion among visitors, as officials enforce strict regulations to ensure safety due to the quarry’s deep waters. The city is hopeful that this renovation will create a vibrant community hub for locals and visitors.
Knoxville – Augusta Quarry has officially reopened to the public on July 2, 2025, after an extensive renovation that cost approximately $11 million. The project, funded by the city and its partners, including the Aslan Foundation, has introduced a range of new amenities aimed at improving visitor experience while ensuring safety.
The renovations feature new trails, an overlook, a floating “beach” platform, changing rooms, outdoor showers, and a water bottle refilling station. Additionally, the parking lot has been upgraded to accommodate up to 38 vehicles, ensuring more visitors can access the quarry. In response to heavy traffic, city leaders are removing “No Parking” signs to allow for more convenient parking options.
Despite these improvements, many quarry-goers have reported confusion regarding new safety rules, particularly the prohibition on outside floaties unless they are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Visitors can still enjoy floating amenities such as stand-up paddleboards and inflatable tubes, which are available for rent from the vendor, River Sports Outfitters.
City officials stress safety, as the quarry reaches depths of over 200 feet. With no lifeguards on duty, the importance of adhering to safety rules has been emphasized. Admission to the quarry remains free, but patrons are reminded that cliff jumping is strictly prohibited, following several tragic incidents related to cliff diving in the area’s past. The city aims to mitigate safety concerns exacerbated by a previous drowning incident, which prompted a search operation for a missing man.
The site will operate daily from 7:45 AM to 8 PM, with staff available from 10 AM to 8 PM until October. To further ensure safety, patrols and clear signage have been installed to monitor for prohibited activities, which include alcohol consumption, smoking, vaping, fires, grilling, and bringing glass containers. Visitors should be aware of these regulations to enhance their experience.
Although the quarry has undergone various enhancements, it manages to retain some of its original industrial charm, appealing to families and groups seeking recreational opportunities. The renovation project is part of a broader initiative by the city to create accessible recreational spaces that foster community engagement and usage.
The Augusta Quarry had been closed since March 2024, with renovations aimed at offering a safer experience compared to previous years. With the reopening, city officials are optimistic that the quarry will become a vibrant gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
The community can look forward to enjoying the newly refurbished facility, which not only increases accessibility and safety but also offers a beautiful natural setting for relaxation and recreation during warm weather months.
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Augusta Quarry Reopens
- Inside of Knoxville: Summer Dreamin’ at Augusta Quarry
- WATE: Possible Drowning Investigation at Augusta Quarry
- MSN: Parking Changes at Augusta Quarry
- Knox TN Today: Augusta Quarry – A Free Place to Play
- Wikipedia: Augusta Quarry
- Google Search: Augusta Quarry
- Google Scholar: Augusta Quarry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta Quarry
- Google News: Augusta Quarry
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
