Mermet Springs, Illinois

Posted: Jul 13 in Dive Blog tagged Illinois Diving by Jan

Located in southern Illinois, Mermet Springs is approximately a 5 hour drive from Peoria.  An old  stone quarry, Mermet Springs most prominent natural feature is its sheer rock walls which plunge to a maximum depth in excess of 120 feet in areas.

Most divers hang out in the shallower  areas of the lake where it’s considerably warmer and there are more fish.  (They don’t like being cold any more than we do)

Training platforms are located throughout the quarry.  Fish life includes the elusive spoon bill catfish, which can be spotted swimming near the surface.  A Boeing 747 used in the movie “U.S. Marshals” is the lake’s premier man made attraction.   Snorkeling, kayaking and camping are available.  Rentals and air fills are available.  Nitrox fills are also available.  C card required.  Daily entrance fee is $25.