Dive Stop, Missouri

Dive Stop, 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of New Melle, Missouri, about a 30-minute drive west of downtown St. Louis, is a 4.5-acre (1.8-hectare) quarry flooded in the early 1970s. The quarry is surrounded by woods, and deer and turkey are common sights. Underwater amenities include a training platform at 20 feet (6 m), a Ford truck, a Dodge truck, a 16-foot open bow boat and a 32-foot (10-m) cabin cruiser.
Depths to: 65 feet (20 m)
Visibility: Averages 20 feet (6 m)

The average in the summer exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) at the surface and 72 F (22 C) at a depth of 60 feet (18 m). Winter temperatures average 42 F (6 C) at the surface and 40 F (4 C) at 40 feet (12 m) below the surface.
Aquatic life: Includes bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, turtles and a beaver.
Fees: $25 per person. Season passes cost $125 per person or $250 per family (maximum of four). Air fills are available for $7.

On-site amenities: Three canopy areas with tables, a primitive camping area, walking trails, picnic areas. Restaurants in nearby New Melle include the Bavarian House, Fireside Grill and Liz's Bar.

More info: Call (636) 398-4464 or visit www.dive-stop.com.

Open: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Open Monday and Tuesday by appointment only.
Getting there: From St. Louis, drive west on Interstate 70 to Exit 209 and turn south on Church Street/Missouri Z Highway. Drive south on Z Highway and proceed about 8 miles (12.4 km). The quarry entrance is on the east side of the highway.