

Best for beginner divers, 6-111m, shore entry, mild current.
Lake Jocassee is a freshwater dive site featuring an artificial reef structure accessible from the shore. The site offers visibility ranging from 6 to 15 metres and experiences mild currents. Depths vary significantly, extending from 6 metres in the shallows to 111 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers should note that a thermocline can occur, with temperatures dropping notably below 21 metres. The site includes overhead sections and structures that present entanglement risks, requiring careful buoyancy control. On-site facilities include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a rinse station. This location is suitable for beginners, though proper training is required for navigating overhead environments.
34.96330, -82.95060
The overhead sections of the artificial reef carry a real entanglement risk, so even though this is logged as a beginner site, treat any swim-throughs with care and ensure your buoyancy is solid before entering confined areas. The site is diveable year-round, so there is no pressure to rush a particular season.
Located in western South Carolina, 2.5 hours from Atlanta and Charlotte. Access via Devils Fork State Park.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-111m
Visibility
6-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Yes, the site is rated for beginners, though divers should maintain solid buoyancy and exercise caution near overhead structures to avoid entanglement.
Depths range from 6 metres in the shallows to 111 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
This is a shore access dive site.
Divers should be aware of entanglement risks and overhead environments such as swim-throughs or wrecks.
The site provides parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a rinse station.
Diving at Lake Jocassee in Salem requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Lake Jocassee in Salem typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Lake Jocassee in Salem typically ranges from 6 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.