NLQP History
The best place on earth is in N.E Ohio
In The Begining
The ledges have a deep history dating back to the Ice Age
The Ice Age and the shifting of Earth’s tectonic plates are to thank for the scenic Nelson Ledges. The spectacular rock formations have become its well-known trademarks. The beautiful quartz & sandstone cliffs resulted from erosion that wore away the softer rock layers to form the Ledges. They also lie near one of the highest points in the state, which creates the watershed divide between the Ohio River & Lake Erie.
This area was therefore of vital importance to the Native American tribes–mostly the Delaware tribe. Several Indian footpaths & canoe routes passed through the vicinity, making the area an important trade center for Native Americans &, eventually pioneers. Many arrowheads have since been found throughout the state and quarry parks, & we are, of course, very proud & respectful of these timeless footprints left here so many years ago
Years of Camping, Festivals, Swimming, Scuba & More
250+
Acres To Explore
The first settlers developed the area into an important agricultural and dairy center that controlled southern markets
The Early Years
In 1800, the Mills family left Becket, Massachusetts & became the first settlers in Nelson. The area developed into an important agricultural & dairy center. Cheese making was prominent, beginning almost as soon as the first settlers arrived. By 1834, the Northeast Ohio cheese industry even controlled the southern markets. Eventually, canal & railway transportation increased the area’s importance. But the “Ledges,” as they are called, have always been a noted place of resort for pleasure seekers & curiosity. In the late 1800’s a small hotel was built as one of the principal points of interest for their accommodations. There were even carnival rides in the mid 1900’s.
In the late 1940’s & 50’s, what’s now Nelson Ledges Quarry Park was an operating rock quarry. It employed many people in the surrounding area, mining both quartz & sand. As the story goes, one day in the late 1950’s the machinery hit one of the many springs, & the 30-acre quarry filled within days, leaving peninsulas, rock shelves & an island in the middle.
Our Campground & Beach
A Secret Retreat For All
Abandoned by the company, the Quarry was soon visited & inhabited by the locals, free-loving hippies & bikers, who came with their painted buses, motorcycles, free spirits & hopes of settling down. Unfortunately, they were in for a rude awakening. Thinking they had created the perfect paradise, officials caught wind of too much fun going on, gates were put up, & the Quarry was closed.
Eventually, in 1972, the land & Quarry were purchased by a young man who established the foundation of the campground that we see today. In the years that followed, it has become even more of a hot spot for scuba diving, camping, swimming, sunbathing & of course cliff diving.
The 70’s and 80’s were wonderful, & the memories were many. The laughter & good times seemed to flow endlessly. But the 90’s brought a stir of events due to poor management, & ownership changed hands twice before 1995.
At that time, Evan Kelley, a previous lifeguard & manager throughout the 80’s & 90’s, was given the opportunity to both purchase & improve the park. It was his dream to keep the Quarry alive. Evan expanded upon ideas & made many renovations, such as providing more children’s activities & better facilities, without altering the natural beauty or spirit of the park. He also hired a wonderful staff that we consider to be our park family, together running the Quarry with love & appreciation for what it provides us & everyone who comes here.
nelson ledges
Our Memories
Contacting NLQP
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park FAQs
Welcome to our FAQs, where you’ll find quick answers to common questions. Whether you’re looking for information on tickets, policies, or event details, we’ve got you covered!"
Where Can I Find All The Park Rules?
You can find all the rules on our Rules page, easily accessible through the main navigation menu or linked directly from event pages. Be sure to review them before attending to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience!
What Are Your Camping & Day Rates?
For a full list of permitted and prohibited items, please visit our Rules page. Generally, you’re welcome to bring camping essentials, but items like weapons, glass containers, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
How Can I Buy Tickets / Locate My Tickets?
You can buy tickets easily through our Events page, where all available events and pricing options are listed. To locate purchased tickets, log into your account on our ticketing platform, or check your confirmation email for download links.