Clear Springs Scuba Park (
http://www.clearspringsscubapark.com/) is a 22 acre spring fed lake (an old quarry, spring fed, but no outlet) just northeast of Terrell, Tx. near Dallas. The park features incredibly clear water (for north Texas) with visibility ranging from ~10' to 30'+. Visibility has probably
averaged 20-25' when I've been there in the summer. Depth of the lake maxes out at 63' in a silo they sank for advanced open water classes. Water temperature varies from a peak of about 84°F at the surface with a thermocline at ~30' dropping to the 50's in summer to ~50°F top to bottom in winter.
You can expect to see an explosion of life with water plants lining the shallows down to 25-30' populated by large mouthed bass, catfish, several kinds of turtles, a good variety of sunfish (bluegill, longear, redbreast- you know, "perch"- wear a hood if you value your ears!), and a wide assortment of fingerlings/juveniles/minnows I haven't identified. For you junk divers out there (don't get me started on "trash" dumped in lakes- he, he) there's a sunken shark sculpture, a boat, and an old airplane fuselage (mock-up?) to swim thru for the appropriately trained and equipped. There are raised training platforms at depth for classes and skill practice. Terrain varies from a wall along the southeast shore, to water plant "forests" in the shallows, to mud flats at depth.
On the surface, they have entry docks (all entry into the lake is by dock to prevent silting), a tank fill station, port-a-potties, a deli where you can get a sandwich, and a camping area- some with electric hookups. They have some picnic tables with permanent shelters and grills, but if I wasn't arriving real early I'd bring my own shade in the summer. I hear a bathroom/shower/changing area is coming. They have a limited amount of rental gear like tanks- I'd call before I go.
Fees (cash only!) are currently $20 for divers, $10 for "observers", instructors free, divemasters- one free per 4 students, camping $5 each, electric hookup $15/day, air fills $5 each. Hours of operation are Friday 9AM to dark, Saturday and Sunday 8AM to dark. The park is closed on Monday and open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday by reservation only.
Clear Springs Scuba Park is just northeast of Terrell, Texas east of Dallas. US Hwy 80 runs right down the middle of Terrell. From Hwy 80 take 429 North just east of town. Travel ~7 miles to Cedar Grove Road (county road 346) and turn right (there's usually a dive flag sign here). Go ~1 mile and the entrance is on the left. You will need a C-card to register unless diving as part of a class, and must sign a liability waiver the first time you dive.
Enjoy!