Diving
in the
Texas desert. Sounds
fun? Might want to check out Balmorhea. Just outside the
sleepy little town of Balmorhea in Balmorhea State Park is San Solomon spring. Surrounded
by the West Texas desert and the Davis Mountains looming just
to the south, the springs bring life for a few native species found no where else on earth. The spring provides crystal clear water, excellent
for diving. With shallow depths (max 20 ft), this is an excellent dive
for novice divers. Thanks to the Texas Parks Department, the spring
was dug out into the current pool, making it one of the largest man made
pool in the world.
The pool is teaming with life; Commance Springs pupfish, Pecos gambusia, catfish, crayfish, turtles, etc... With the shallow depth, air consumption is a minor concern. I ended up making three 45 minute dives on one tank. If you decide to try this desert oasis out, be sure to make one of your dives a night dive. The visibility is increadible and is like no lake dive you've ever been on.
The Facts
Across the street from the State Park is a local dive shop if you require air fill, training, or equipment rental/service.
To find out more about the Labor Day trip, side excursions, and more pictures, click here. In all, the trip was a lot of fun. If you are interested in diving something different, check it out.
For More Information:
Balmorhea -- Oasis in the Desert
Motels & Hotels in Balmorhea
Balmorhea, Texas
Balmorhea State Park Photography
Rebirth of Wetland: Balmorhea
Commanche Springs Pupfish
Note: pictures taken from video camcorder and digitized using Snappy.