Russell Pond is a calm freshwater site suitable for beginner divers. The topography consists of reef structures reaching depths between 6 and 10 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres. Shore entry is straightforward, with parking available on site. Visibility is typically around 4 metres, making a torch useful for inspecting details near the reef. Divers should be aware of potential entanglement risks from vegetation or debris and ensure all equipment is streamlined before entering the water. The site experiences very cold temperatures, requiring appropriate thermal protection for the duration of the dive.

Bigelow Hollow State Park offers freshwater diving within the Nipmuck Forest. Divers access the water via a shore entry, which requires a walk through the woods from the parking area. The site features depths ranging from 1 to 12 metres with visibility reaching up to 9 metres. Conditions include mild currents and a significant thermocline, with summer surface temperatures near 21°C dropping to approximately 4.4°C at depth. The site is suitable for intermediate divers, though caution is required due to boat traffic. Divers are advised to use a dive flag and may find a rolling cart useful for transporting gear to the water.