Pearl Lake: Underwater Scuba Diving Adventure In Northern Illinois

Whether man-made or natural, Illinois’ lakes are one of my favorite things about our state. While I prefer shallower bodies of water with plenty of sand bars, a friend of mine is hugely into scuba diving. In fact, as a certified scuba instructor, she’s explored bodies of water across the country. And though Illinois may not have access to the ocean, I’ve found that it still has plenty to offer divers craving some aquatic exploration. So when I discovered that one of my favorite childhood lakes doubled as an underwater scuba diving adventure in Northern Illinois, I knew it belonged on my travel bucket list.

Let me show you why!

underwater scuba diving adventure in Northern Illinois — Found just 10 minutes south of the Illinois-Wisconsin border in South Beloit, Pearl Lake is a 50-acre man-made lake created from a former rock quarry. The 207-acre property includes more than 300 RV sites and crystal-clear waters that attract swimmers and beachgoers during the summer.

Its sky-blue waters have also become a must-see destination for scuba divers, who can get an up-close view of marine life as well as explore an underwater city full of sunken treasures.

The deepest part of the lake is about 85 feet, however, most of the dives take place about 20-40 feet down.

The sunken structures are covered in algae and aquatic plants — proving that nature is stronger than even steel.

While it's not unusual to find a submarine underwater, this yellow 33-footer is quite a sight when you're swimming beside it.

One thing that definitely doesn't belong at the bottom of a lake is this twin-engine Beechcraft airplane, which offers an incredible — yet eerie — exploration experience.

Divers can also meander around a 45-foot fishing tug and a full-size school bus.

One of the most whimsical aspects of the dive is the community of concrete and stone statues — ranging from gargoyles to aliens to mermaids to alligators, hand signs, and more.

An interesting claim to fame at the lake is that in 2020, Bill Lambert, a 99-year-old diver, earned the title of World's Oldest Scuba Diver from the Guinness Book of World Records after a plunge down into Pearl Lake.

So, would you check out this underwater scuba diving adventure in Northern Illinois? What’s your favorite water activity in Illinois? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your visit by checking out the Pearl Lake Beach website and the Pearl Lake Beach Facebook page, as well as the Aquatic Adventures website. Want to turn your dive into a quick camping trip? This top-rated 28-foot RV for rent sleeps eight and is already in Beloit waiting for you!

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Pearl Lake, South Beloit, IL 61080, USA

The Incredible Lake Experience In Illinois Where You'll See Sunken Planes, Ships, And Busses

Linze Rice

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