A fantastic place for all divers, and, believe it or not, a destination even for those who are not landlocked, Illinois' Mermet Springs is one of the few places in the world where you can dive on a sunken jumbo jet and more. Offering a number of great amenities and superb diving, this 8.5 acre quarry has been transformed to a site you're going to want to add to your personal diving bucket list.
Sunken Attractions
Mermet Springs best features are, without a doubt, its numerous sunken attractions. Here is a short list of what is available - don't be surprised if there are new attractions when you visit, since the owner goes to great lengths to upgrade continually.
- Railroad Coal Car - Located at a depth of 55 feet, the coal car was donated after a derailment that actually blocked the entrance to the springs for several days. It was carefully lowered into the quarry with a large crane, and now doubles as a training area and a shelter for fish.
- Human-Powered Pedal Submarine - Located at a depth of 60 feet, this sub was built as part of a college competition.
- "Bruce" - Bruce the Shark waits for hapless divers at a depth of just 8 feet. You'll find him between the petting zoo and the motorcycle.
- Cherokee 150 Aircraft - Sitting between the Boxcar and the Ford pickup, this aircraft is at a depth of 55 feet and has been here since 2001.
- Cessna 152 Aircraft - Located near the cabin cruiser by the swimming beach, the Cessna is at a depth of just 40 feet.
- Ambulance - Sitting at a depth of 45 feet, the Ambulance is located near the Boeing 727 that was used in the US Marshalls movie.
- Fire Truck - Donated by the Quincy Fire Department, which makes frequent training dives at the lake, this fire truck sits at a depth of 50 feet, near the Boing 727 and the Boxcar.
- Petting Zoo - A complete menagerie of creatures awaits at a depth of 12 feet. Bring your camera so you can pose; maybe you can convince your buddy to put his hand in the alligator's mouth.
In addition to all these attractions, you'll find a number of vehicles, with some notable additions including a motorcycle and a sunken international semi -truck.
Amenities and Additional Information
As Mermet Springs is a dive resort, it offers everything a diver could want. There's a shop on site, plus there are air fills. An entire menu of training classes is available, and the resort is open all year. Be prepared for cold temperatures; the lake is fed by a series of cold, clear freshwater springs; hoods and gloves will keep you feeling comfortable as you enjoy a veritable underwater amusement park that has been created with you in mind.
Look for the fish as you explore; there are all kinds of native freshwater fish, plus there are paddlefish, which can be as long as 5 feet and which look a little menacing, but which are really quite approachable. Camping is available, and there are a number of concessions, not to mention local hotels and restaurants. Whether you come for a day or enjoy an entire week or longer of diving, you're sure to enjoy this unique dive resort.