A desert may seem an unlikely place to seek underwater adventure, yet about ten thousand Southern Nevadans have been certified as divers. Most of those took their first open-water dive in Lake Mead, the second-largest man-made body of water in the world.

Lake Mead and the Colorado River below Hover Dam offer some of the finest inland fresh water diving in the world. In fact they have been rated as one of the Top 10 dive locations for fresh water in the world. With over a thousand miles of shoreline every dive can be a new adventure of discovery. Several sites have been set-aside just for divers. Some require a boat, while others can be accessed from shore. If it’s easy site seeing, deep exploration, cavern, or swift water drift diving Lake Mead and the Colorado River can fulfill you needs.

General Statistics

• Water Temperature in the winter months is about 52F at any depth.
• Water Temperature in the summer months ranges from 82F at the surface to the mid 50’s at 100’ and below, with several noticeable thermoclines in between.
• Below the Dam the river is 52F to 54F year round
• Visibility goes from 60’ to 100’ feet in winter to 20 feet in summer, depending on the dive site.
• Lake elevation is about 1130 feet above sea level
• Air temperature in winter ranges from low 40sF to mid 70sF but summers can reach 115F with a high UV factor. Sunburn is a real problem and we suggest SPF 45+ sunscreen
• Night diving is always special at Lake Mead. Give it a try.
• With fishing licenses you may spear fish Striped Bass, Tilapia, and Carp

Suggestions

• Bring your Personal gear.   Rent your BC, Wetsuit, Regulator, Tanks and Weights if you like from Colorado River Divers
• Plan on renting a car to get around
• Stay in one of the major hotels. They are the best deal usually.
• Stay and Play in Las Vegas at least one day after diving.
• In winter bring a warm jacket and in summer plenty of sun block
• Plan at least one full day to dive and enjoy the wonderful Lake Mead National Recreation area.