Best for intermediate divers, 18-61m, shore entry.
Bonne Terre Mine is a flooded lead mine offering a unique freshwater diving environment in the United States. The site features depths ranging from 18 to 60 metres, with an average depth of 55 metres. Divers experience consistent visibility of 30 metres and a stable water temperature of 14°C year-round. As an overhead environment, the mine requires careful buoyancy control and gear management to avoid entanglement with submerged infrastructure and rock structures. Entry is from the shore, and the site is suitable for intermediate divers. Full facilities are available on-site, including air fills, showers, and guided tours, allowing for multi-dive planning.
37.92510, -90.54863
Despite the open-water certification requirement on entry, the overhead environment means cave or cavern training is strongly worth considering before tackling the deeper sections of the mine. The site has full facilities on site, including air fills, so you can plan a multi-dive day without needing to leave.
The tour includes a 1/3 mile walk and a staircase with 65 steps in and out.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Depth
18-61m
Visibility
30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Current
None
Typical Dive
45 min
There is no marine life present at this site.
The site is rated for intermediate divers due to the overhead environment and depth requirements.
The site ranges from 18 to 60 metres, with an average depth of 55 metres.
Entry to the mine is from the shore.
The primary hazards are the overhead environment and potential entanglement with submerged equipment and infrastructure.
Diving at Bonne Terre Mine in Bonne Terre, MO requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Visibility at Bonne Terre Mine in Bonne Terre, MO typically ranges from 30 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
