

Best for beginner divers, Up to 16m, boat entry, mild current.
The Junkyard is a freshwater artificial reef located in Lake Keowee, featuring various wreck structures accessible from the shore. Divers can explore the site at depths ranging from the surface down to 16 metres. The current is generally mild, making the location suitable for beginner divers. Visibility at the site is variable and can change significantly between visits, which influences how much of the structure is visible. Divers should be prepared for cold water conditions and maintain awareness of their depth and the wreck structure to avoid entrapment. Proper thermal protection is recommended for all visitors.
34.96890, -82.91460
Check local conditions before you go, as visibility can vary widely and will determine how much of the structure you actually see. Cold water is a real factor here, so a wetsuit appropriate for the temperature is worth confirming before you enter.
Access is provided via pontoon boats operated by Jocassee Adventures.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 16m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Current
Mild
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to the mild current, although divers should remain within their training limits.
The site offers depths ranging from the surface down to 16 metres.
The Junkyard is a shore-accessible dive site.
Primary hazards include cold water, the depth of the site, and the physical wreck structure.
The best months to visit The Junkyard in Salem are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
The Junkyard in Salem typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.