Visit Lake Phoenix for Scuba Diving and Camping Adventures

Lake Phoenix scuba diving quarryWhat is Lake Phoenix

Lake Phoenix is a scuba diving park that also offers a great camping experience in Rawlings, Virginia.  It was originally a granite quarry that became a lake when miners hit an aquifer in the 1950s.  The granite from Lake Phoenix has notably been used in the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, and interstate 85.  Lake Phoenix uniquely has a stone bottom which keeps the lake relatively clear for scuba diving.  The lake itself is approximately 20 acres and was opened as a dive site in 1994.  
 

underwater carWhat is the Scuba Diving like at Lake Phoenix?

Lake Phoenix is a lake of approximately 20 acres with a maximum depth of 60 – 70 feet.  The average visibility is 20 – 40 feet depending on the season, the scuba traffic, and the depth.  Water temperatures on the surface can get up to the 80s in the summer months but there is a distinct thermocline at about 30 feet as the lake is spring fed.  Most bass in Lake Phoenixdivers would be comfortable in a thick wetsuit (think 7mm) or a drysuit.  There are a number of sunken treasures at the lake including several automobiles, a helicopter, boats, and a plane to explore.  Additionally, there are many smaller exhibits including an underwater campground, a maze, a selfie-mirror, and numerous platforms for training among many others.  If you visit Lake Phoenix’s website you are even able to download a map with compass headings to work on those navigational skills.  Also if you get the opportunity I would highly recommend checking out the night dive.  There are literally hundreds of bass that come out around dusk and it makes for a unique experience!

Camping at Lake Phoenix

Camping at Lake Phoenix is a laid back and fun experience!  There are some RV sites with electric as well as some primitive camping sites.  The primitive camping sites are first come first serve and can be booked online.  The area is quiet, the sites are spacious, and each site has a fire ring and a picnic table.  There are also bathrooms with hot showers, and free firewood (which is a huge plus in my book).  We have always gone with the “camper special” when staying at Lake Phoenix which at the time of writing this was $123.50 for two days of diving with unlimited air fills and two nights of camping.

 

Scuba diving and camping at Lake Phoenix has turned into a yearly tradition.  It’s a great place to work on training dives, test new gear, and just have fun!  The camping is relaxed and makes the whole experience convenient.  If you are close enough to drive down for a weekend check it out!

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