Brickyard Quarry, Illinois

You won't spot any bricks coming out of Brickyard Quarry in south central Illinois but until the 1970s, material used for bricks was mined from the site, before it was left to flood. The 10-acre quarry is nestled in a rural 14-acre spot two-tenths of a mile west of St. Elmo, Illinois. Terry and Ruth Ann Trueblood have owned the quarry for the last eight years, and on site provide a few basic services such as air fills. The quarry is also a popular training site. Underwater, visitors will find a lawn tractor, 14-foot boat, small plane, cars, and an underwater training platform at 20 feet (6 m). Divers must sign a liability waiver and show their 
C-card before gaining access.

Depths to: 30 feet (9 m)

Visibility: 5-15 feet (3-5 m)

Water temperature: In early May the surface temperature was 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).

Aquatic life: Largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish, turtles. 

Fees: $5 admission

On-site amenities: Restrooms, changing rooms, swimming beach.

More info: Call (618) 829-3483 or visit www.omniscuba.com.

Open: 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays or by appointment.

Getting there: From Interstate 70, take Exit 76, and turn north on Interstate Drive/Highway 7. At U.S. Highway 40, turn right and drive to Elm Street. At Elm turn left and drive north to Sixth Place. Turn left and drive west until reaching the quarry, just past Brickyard Branch.