Phillips Quarry,
Muncie, Indiana

The 2.5-acre lake is the site of a former quarry, mined for stone until 1917. It became a popular swimming hole in the 1940s and '50s. It was bequeathed to the City of Muncie, later abandoned but used for underwater rescue training, and is now owned by Randy Wormer, a scuba assistant instructor at Leaird's Underwater Service, which handles arrangements for diving at the site. Divers will find six boats, two cars and other attractions underwater.

Depths to: 55 feet (17 m)

Visibility: 30-50 feet (9-15 m) in the spring and 150 feet (45 m) in the winter.

Water temperature: On the bottom, from 38 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) in the winter to a still-chilly 44 F (7 C) in the summer. Surface temperatures vary from 38 F (4 C) in the winter to 77 F (25 C) in the summer. Thermocline is at 17 feet (5 m).

Aquatic life: bass, bluegill, crappie, turtles, and an occasional catfish

Fees: $5 per day. Annual passes are available.

On-site amenities: Restrooms are being built but for now a porta-potty is available. There is a changing room, which is heated during the winter.

More info: Call Leaird's Underwater Service at (765) 288-8144.

Open: Regular hours are not kept. Arrangements should be made through Leaird's.

Getting there: From State Highway 32, which is also Main Street, drive into the downtown area of government buildings. East Washington Street is one block north of Main and runs parallel to it. Turn east on Washington. It dead-ends at the quarry.