Chillicothe Recreational Area, Chillicothe, Illinois

Posted: Jul 13 in Dive Blog tagged Illinois Diving by Jan

Close to home, the Chillicothe Recreational Area actually consists of three gravel pits, one of which is open for scuba divers.   Depths range from 10 feet to 26 feet.  Fish life is varied, and includes sun fish, bass, crappie, cat fish & carp. If you swim slowly,  you may spot turtles in the shallows or  along the bank at the east end of the lake.

It is one of the few lakes in Illinois where divers can find freshwater jellyfish in the early spring and late fall.   A number of man made objects, including a school bus, several boats, & dive platforms may be found.  The best diving is generally along the east or north shores of the lake. The west end is very shallow and tends to get weed choked.   Entry fee is $15.  C card required.  Surface amenities are minimal.  There are no equipment rentals on site, so bring what you need.

Nearest air fill station: Do Dive In

Chillicothe Recreational Area

20205 N Route 29

Chillicothe, Illinois

309/274-2000