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Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Balmorhea Springs
Oasis in the middle of nowhere, Texas. This natural spring is 72 degrees year round! Texas has a wonderful state park system, and Balmorhea State Park in West Texas is no exception. Located a few hours southeast of El Paso, Balmorhea boasts a large natural spring with views of the Davis Mountains. Stay in the cabins or camp on location. This is a great place for year round scuba diving and swimming (if you're really motivated!) where the water is consistently 72 degrees. Divers will see a variety of fish, and a rather feisty turtle. Entry is free for State Park Pass holders, and is otherwise $7. Pool hours are 8am-7:30pm. Check it out!
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Damon Harvey
Mar 19, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
The 74 degree spring-fed pool was great on a cool and windy day. The marine life was plentiful, and interesting. It was a nice relaxing dive, no real challenges, just great scenery. Diving in this oasis in the middle of the desert was a real treat.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Tim Landers
Jun 8, 2003, 12:00 AM
scuba
Balmorhea, a Texas State Park, is a big swimming pool with a natural bottom. It is fed by warm springs and has extremely clear water. The springs bubble up through the sand at its maximum depth of about 22 feet. There are two species of fish that are not found elsewhere (at least very limited) along with turtles and crayfish. A nearby town, Toyhavale, has a couple of great Mexican restaurants. The nearest grocery store is in Fort Davis. There are picnic tables within feet of the entrance and large bathrooms for changing. A dive shop is right across the street for tank refills. See some site pictures here: www.we-b-divin.com/travel/2003/balmorhea. There are cabins for rent and trailer hookups. It can become a little crowded since it is used a lot for dive training but is a great weekend getaway. In the foothills of the Davis Mountains dives will be considered altitude dives so be sure to plan accordingly (and get your Altitude Diver certification).
Originally posted on shorediving.com