

Best for beginner divers, 2-11m, shore entry, mild current.
Blakely Mountain Dam is a freshwater site featuring an artificial reef and wall topography. Divers and snorkellers access the water via a concrete staircase from the shore. The site reaches depths of 2 to 11 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. Conditions include mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 15 metres. Surface temperatures can reach 35°C in summer, though water temperatures drop significantly below the 7.5-metre thermocline, necessitating thermal protection. Facilities available on-site include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, a rinse station, air fills, a dive shop, equipment rental, and guided tours. The site is suitable for beginners and offers a typical dive duration of 40 minutes.
34.57390, -93.19420
Bring cheese wiz or a bag of food to attract large numbers of bream and bass.
The main shore entry is at the far end of the Blakely Mountain Dam, where a long series of steps leads from a parking area down to the water.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 11m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginner divers.
The depth ranges from 2 to 11 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres.
Access is via a concrete staircase from the shore.
Yes, the site is well-suited for snorkelling and holds a 5/5 rating for the activity.
Divers should be aware of cold water below the thermocline, depth, low visibility, and sharp structures.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Blakely Mountain Dam in Lakes. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
The best months to visit Blakely Mountain Dam in Lakes are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Blakely Mountain Dam in Lakes typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Blakely Mountain Dam in Lakes typically ranges from 5 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.