This dive site, Athens Scuba Park, is an artificial freshwater dive facility located in Athens, Texas. It offers a unique underwater exploration experience with over 25 sunken wrecks and 10 diving docks. Divers can easily navigate between the various submerged attractions. The park serves as a dedicated training ground and recreational spot, providing an accessible and controlled environment for divers to hone their skills and explore underwater structures in a lake setting.
The freshwater environment hosts various aquatic life, including perch, bass, and catfish, which can be spotted around the wrecks and structures. Freshwater turtles are also common residents, often observed leisurely swimming or resting on submerged objects. While marine plants are typical of a freshwater lake, the primary visual interest comes from the abundant artificial reefs formed by the sunken wrecks.
The best time to visit Athens Scuba Park is generally during warmer months, though it operates year-round, offering a unique opportunity for divers to experience inland wreck diving. Highlights include exploring the diverse collection of wrecks and encountering freshwater wildlife. The shallow depths (maximum 7 meters, average 3 meters) make it particularly suitable for beginner divers, open water training, and freedivers. Snorkelers can also enjoy the clear shallow areas around the docks and some wrecks.
