George C. Edwards Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex (CARC)

The George C. Edwards Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex is the indoor pool, fitness and recreation center on the Garrett College campus at 695 Mosser Rd in McHenry. Known locally as the CARC, it serves members from around Garrett County as well as visitors whose vacation rental includes a pass.

Pools, Gym and Fitness

The complex has two indoor pools. The six-lane competition pool, kept at about 80 degrees, has a spectator viewing area and is used for lap swimming and swim teams. The smaller warm-water pool, kept near 90 degrees, has a jetted seating area, which makes it a comfortable choice for younger children, gentle exercise and anyone who finds cooler water hard going. Dry-land facilities include:

• a fitness center with cardio and free-weight equipment
• a gymnasium for basketball and other indoor sports
• group fitness classes such as yoga, cycling and body sculpting
• locker and shower rooms, a wet classroom for swim instruction and multi-use classrooms

Swim Lessons and Community Programs

Group swim lessons follow the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program. The CARC is also home to I Can Swim!, a partnership of Garrett College, the Garrett College Foundation, the Garrett County Board of Education and the County Commissioners that has given every kindergartner in the county swimming and water-safety instruction since 2012. Sixth graders return for refresher swim time, and some of the program's first graduates now work at the CARC as lifeguards.

A College Facility for the Whole County

The complex opened in 2012. In 2023 Garrett College formally named it the George C. Edwards Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex, honoring the former state senator who helped secure state support to build it.

Use is through membership or passes. Many Deep Creek vacation rentals, including homes managed by Railey Vacations, include CARC passes for guests, so check your rental's amenity list before you pack your swimsuit.

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