lAKE TRAVIS Scuba Diving - AUSTIN, Texas

Lake Travis, a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River in central Texas, is a popular destination for scuba divers of all skill levels. Known for its depth and clear waters, submerged structures, and unique underwater landscapes, It has been the most popular lake for Texas Dive shops to meet the depth requirements for their advanced scuba certification in Texas. Lake Travis offers an exciting and diverse diving experience. This guide will explore the history of Lake Travis, the various diving opportunities available, the underwater attractions, and tips for making the most of your diving adventure.

If you're considering or interested in exploring any of these scuba lakes in Texas we are here to assist you every step of the way. Let our scuba experts get you scuba certified or provide additional scuba training.

 Sign up now

Lake Travis was created in 1942 with the construction of the Mansfield Dam, which was built to control flooding, provide water for irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power. The lake stretches for about 63 miles and covers an area of 18,930 acres, with a maximum depth of approximately 210 feet. The formation of Lake Travis submerged numerous valleys, creeks, and even small communities, creating a varied underwater landscape that attracts divers from around the region.

Over the years, Lake Travis has become a major recreational hotspot, offering activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and, of course, scuba diving. The lake's clear waters and abundance of submerged features make it a prime location for underwater exploration.

Scuba diving in Lake Travis offers a variety of experiences for divers of all skill levels. From shallow shore dives to deep underwater explorations, there is something for everyone. The lake is home to several popular dive sites, each with its own unique attractions and features.

• Windy Point Park

Windy Point Park is one of the most popular scuba diving locations on Lake Travis. The park provides easy access to the water, ample parking, and facilities such as picnic areas and restrooms. The dive site itself offers a range of depths, from shallow areas perfect for beginners to deeper sections for more experienced divers.

Underwater, divers can explore a variety of submerged structures, including platforms, pipes, and even a sunken sailboat. The clear waters and relatively mild currents make Windy Point Park an excellent spot for underwater photography and training dives.

• Starnes Island

Starnes Island, also known as "Sometimes Island," is another popular dive site in Lake Travis. This small island is located in the main basin of the lake and is accessible by boat. The waters around Starnes Island offer excellent visibility and a variety of underwater features, including rock formations, submerged trees, and fish habitats.

Divers can expect to see a range of aquatic life, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. The island's rocky shores and underwater cliffs provide interesting terrain for exploration, making it a favorite spot for both recreational and technical divers.

• Mansfield Dam Park

Mansfield Dam Park, located near the dam that created Lake Travis, is a popular dive site that offers a range of underwater attractions. The park has designated diving areas with easy entry points, making it accessible for divers of all levels.

One of the highlights of diving at Mansfield Dam Park is the opportunity to explore the submerged remnants of the original Colorado River valley. Divers can follow underwater trails, swim through canyons, and discover old bridge pilings and structures. The deep waters near the dam also provide an ideal environment for advanced and technical dives.

• The Oasis

The Oasis, known for its stunning sunset views and lakeside restaurant, also offers a great diving spot. The waters around The Oasis are home to several interesting underwater features, including rock formations and submerged debris.

Divers can explore the underwater landscape while enjoying the relatively clear waters and moderate currents. The area is also known for its fish populations, making it a good spot for observing and photographing aquatic life.

Lake Travis is known for its diverse underwater attractions, which include natural features, artificial structures, and a variety of aquatic life. Some of the most notable underwater attractions include:

• The Shaker Plant

The Shaker Plant is a popular dive site featuring the remains of a concrete and metal structure that was once used for gold mining operations in the early 20th century. The structure now lies submerged at a depth of around 60 feet and has become an artificial reef, attracting a variety of fish and other marine life. Divers can explore the structure, swim through its openings, and observe the thriving underwater ecosystem that has developed around it.

• The Pecan Grove

The Pecan Grove is an area of Lake Travis where divers can explore submerged pecan trees that were flooded when the lake was created. These trees provide an eerie and fascinating underwater landscape, with their branches creating intricate patterns and providing shelter for fish and other aquatic creatures. The depth of the Pecan Grove varies, making it accessible for both novice and experienced divers.

• The Playground 

The Playground is an area of Lake Travis that features a collection of submerged toys, playground equipment, and other debris. This quirky dive site offers a fun and unusual diving experience, with divers encountering everything from tricycles to swing sets. The shallow depths and clear waters make the Playground an ideal spot for beginner divers and those looking to hone their underwater navigation skills.

• The Graveyard

The Graveyard is a dive site that gets its name from the submerged headstones and other markers that were left behind when the area was flooded. This site offers a haunting and intriguing dive experience, with divers exploring the remnants of an old cemetery. The Graveyard is located at a depth of around 50 feet, and the visibility can vary depending on water conditions.

Scuba diving in Lake Travis requires a commitment to conservation and safety. The lake's ecosystem is delicate, and divers must take care to minimize their impact on the environment. Here are some tips for responsible diving:

• Follow Local Regulations: Make sure to follow all local regulations and guidelines for diving in Lake Travis. This includes obtaining any necessary permits, respecting designated dive areas, and adhering to safety protocols.

• Practice Good Buoyancy Control: Maintaining proper buoyancy is essential for protecting the underwater environment. Avoid touching or disturbing aquatic life, and be mindful of your fins and equipment to prevent damage to plants and structures.

• Dispose of Waste Properly: Always dispose of waste, including food wrappers, water bottles, and other trash, in designated bins on shore. Never leave debris in the water, as it can harm marine life and disrupt the ecosystem.

• Respect Wildlife: Observe aquatic life from a distance and avoid chasing or harassing animals. Some species in Lake Travis are protected, and disturbing them can have serious ecological consequences.

• Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a buddy and maintain clear communication throughout the dive. This enhances safety and ensures that you have assistance in case of an emergency.

If you're planning a dive in Lake Travis, proper preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential steps to take before your dive:

• Check Your Equipment: Ensure that all of your diving equipment is in good working condition. Check your regulator, BCD, tanks, and other gear for any signs of wear or damage. Perform a thorough pre-dive inspection to avoid any issues underwater.

• Plan Your Dive: Plan your dive carefully, including the dive site, depth, and duration. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the dive plan and communicate it with your dive buddy.

• Monitor Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast and water conditions before your dive. Avoid diving in poor weather or if there are strong currents or low visibility.

• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Diving can be physically demanding, so make sure you are well-hydrated and well-rested before your dive. Bring water and snacks to stay energized throughout the day.

• Familiarize Yourself with the Dive Site: Take the time to familiarize yourself with the dive site, including entry and exit points, underwater features, and any potential hazards. This will help you navigate the site safely and make the most of your dive.

Lake Travis offers a diverse and exciting scuba diving experience, with a range of underwater attractions and deep diving dive sites to explore. If you are going to take an Advanced scuba certification class or a deep diver certification class you will probably use Lake Travis unless you choose to go offshore or do it on your scuba vacation.

From the submerged structures of Windy Point Park to the haunting remnants of The Graveyard, there is something for every diver in this unique reservoir. By following safety guidelines, practicing responsible diving, and taking the time to prepare properly, you can enjoy the wonders of Lake Travis while helping to preserve its delicate ecosystem for future generations. Dive into the depths of Lake Travis and discover the hidden treasures that await beneath the surface.

If you are thinking about getting scuba certified or looking for additional scuba training Sign up now