Deerfield Cove Boat Launch is a freshwater dive site located in a protected cove on the eastern side of the lake. The underwater topography consists of a mix of sandy patches and rocky outcrops. Divers can expect depths ranging from 8 to 29 metres, with an average depth of 9 metres. Conditions include mild currents and visibility typically between 10 and 15 metres. The site is accessible by both shore and boat, making it suitable for beginners. Hazards include cold water, potential entanglement, and low visibility. Facilities available at the site include parking, toilets, showers, a rinse station, air fills, and boat charter services.

Custer Trail Boat Launch on the north shore of Deerfield Lake offers shore-based access to an artificial reef environment. Divers can explore submerged structures, including boat docks, which provide habitat for freshwater fish. The site features depths ranging from 1 to 26 metres, with an average depth of 9 metres. Conditions include mild currents and variable visibility. Due to water temperatures that can drop between 0.5 and 4.5 degrees Celsius, cold water diving equipment is necessary. Hazards at this location include boat traffic, potential entanglement in submerged structures, and low visibility. The site is suitable for beginners, and the shallow areas are accessible for snorkelling.

Jenny Gulch is a freshwater wall dive located in the Black Hills Lakes. The site is defined by its dramatic rock walls that extend underwater, providing a vertical topography for divers to explore. Entry is via the shore. Conditions are variable, with visibility typically ranging between 5 and 8 metres. Divers should be aware of a thermocline, as water temperatures drop significantly below 40ft in September. The site is suitable for intermediate divers due to the presence of deep water and cold temperatures. Boat traffic is a known hazard in the area. Facilities available at the site include parking, toilets, and boat charter services.

Pactola Point Swim Beach offers a accessible freshwater snorkeling experience within the Black Hills Lakes. The site features a sandy shore entry leading into a designated swimming area. Depths at this location range from 1 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 7 metres. Conditions are generally mild, though water temperatures remain cold year-round due to the lake's elevation and spring-fed inputs. Summer surface temperatures typically reach 16 to 22 degrees Celsius, while deeper waters stay significantly colder. Visibility at the site fluctuates between 3 and 7 metres. The area is suitable for beginners and provides facilities including parking, toilets, and showers.

Pactola Lake in the Black Hills offers freshwater diving with depths ranging from 8 to 61 metres, averaging 17 metres. The site features an artificial reef and is accessible by both shore and boat. Divers should be prepared for cold water conditions year-round, with a distinct thermocline typically occurring at 12 metres. Visibility generally ranges between 6 and 8 metres. Due to the significant depths and cold temperatures, this site is suited for intermediate divers. Hazards include boat traffic, cold water, and the risks associated with deep diving such as decompression and nitrogen narcosis. Guided tours and boat charters are available to assist with site access.

The Pontiac Wagon is a freshwater wreck located in the Black Hills Lakes, resting at a constant depth of 29 metres. Serving as an artificial reef, the site offers both shore and boat entry options. Divers should anticipate visibility of approximately 6 metres, necessitating careful buoyancy control and close monitoring of the structure. A torch is recommended to assist with navigation and to illuminate details on the wreck. Given the depth and the low visibility conditions, this site is suited for intermediate divers. Typical dive times are around 45 minutes, and it is advisable to check locally for current facility availability before planning a visit.

Alcatraz Rock is a prominent rock formation located near the dam in Pactola Lake. This site features vertical topography that attracts divers and snorkellers, with depths ranging from 3 to 46 metres and an average depth of 17 metres. Divers should be prepared for a thermocline around 12 metres, where temperatures drop significantly. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 4 and 7 metres. The site is accessible by both shore and boat, though boat access is recommended. Hazards include boat traffic, cold water, and low visibility. Facilities at the location include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, air fills, equipment rental, a cafe, a dive shop, and boat charter services.

Visitor Center Trail Entry at Pactola Lake offers a shore-based snorkelling experience with depths ranging from 3 to 18 metres, averaging 17 metres. The underwater topography is characterised by large boulders and submerged timber. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for a steep entry path from the National Forest Visitor Center. Conditions at this site include mild currents and visibility typically between 6 and 8 metres. This site is suited for intermediate snorkellers looking to explore the submerged structure of the lakebed.