Early in the 1900s, a lime stone operation began under the name of The Whitestone Lime Company. For years it continued to flourish until the site contained nine lime kilns, a stone crusher, and a railroad siding. Around 1930, the lime became impure when black streaks appeared in the limestone. Shortly thereafter, the company abandoned the quarry and moved to another site.
The center of attraction at the Elora Quarry Conservation Area is the excellent swimming opportunities available. This popular spot for cooling off is a former limestone quarry encircled by sheer vertical limestone cliffs. Although the Elora Quarry did not become a Conservation Area until 1976, it has been a popular swimming area for many years.
A one-hectare (2.5 acre) limestone quarry, with a depth of approximately ten meters of clear, cool water provides excellent swimming. There is a beach area and a gently sloping gradient, making it ideal for parents with young children. In both locations, parents are requested to keep close watch over their children, as there are no beach patrol/lifeguards on duty.
Due to insurance regulations, no jumping or diving is permitted and area users shall remain behind the barriers on the quarry rim. Unfortunately, we’ve discovered that this is not a rule very many young people listen to. All of the times we have ever been to the quarry, people have been jumping from the top of the highest cliffs. Sometimes they are caught and thrown out and sometimes they escape. For parents: the jumpers do not go close to the sectioned off swimming area, so no need to worry.
There are numerous shaded areas for picnics and relaxation, however there are no covered picnic shelters available at the quarry. There are two concrete vault type washrooms within the Conservation Area. There is also a small change room available. At the Elora Quarry, a "Carry In - Carry Out" litter disposal program has been implemented. Specially designed bags are given to visitors as they arrive, and we ask that you take your refuse with you when you leave the area.
Pets are allowed, however they must be kept on a two meter leash and controlled at all times plus you must "Stoop and Scoop". Pets are not allowed in the swimming area, but there are two other locations that allow access to the water and if you are in these areas, the dogs can go swimming.
The water is always very warm and clear away from the sandy beach area. Being a contained body of water, I would have been concerned with parasites and "swimmer’s itch" type of problems, but we’ve never heard any stories of this or experienced anything like it. The water seems to be relatively clean and you can have a very wonderful day lounging in and around the quarry.