Diving atFrance Park (United States)
Beneath the surface of France Park, divers uncover a unique underwater tableau shaped by its history as an old limestone quarry. Descending into this submerged world reveals more than just a lake; it's a dive through a curated collection of man-made structures. You'll navigate around a sunken plane, a 1940s school bus, and an old pickup truck. This site provides a distinct opportunity to explore a recreational wreck environment in Indiana.
Recent updates for France Park show an air temperature measuring 17.7°C. Overall water conditions reflect the typical seasonal state for United States. Please exercise standard safety precautions before entering the water.
Dive Site Coordinates
40.7535, -86.4565
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
France Park in Logansport, Indiana, began its existence as a limestone quarry in the late 1800s, gradually filling with water over time to become the dive site it is today. Covering approximately seven acres, this flooded quarry is now a popular destination for divers in the Midwest.
The lake is characterized by steep cliffs along three sides, remnants of the original quarry operations, while the fourth side offers a gentle sandy slope, providing varied entry and exit points. Divers will discover an array of man-made attractions purposefully placed to enhance the underwater experience. These include a sunken plane, a vintage 1940s school bus, an old pickup truck, and even a snowmobile.
Additionally, the site features a culvert, a communication station, two boats, and several training platforms, which are particularly useful for dive instruction. The maximum depth encountered at France Park is 9.4 m (31 ft), making it an accessible site for divers of various experience levels.
Its fresh water environment and clear visibility typically offer a consistent dive setting throughout the season.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at France Park is most enjoyable during the warmer months, specifically from May through September, when air temperatures are most favorable for a pleasant day out. During these months, average air temperatures range from 17.0°C (62.7°F) in May to 23.5°C (74.4°F) in July, with September still offering a comfortable average of 20.0°C (68.0°F). These periods also generally experience lower average rainfall, with rain amounts typically around 1.3 to 2.9 mm, contributing to more stable surface conditions. Although water temperatures are not consistently reported, the warmer air suggests more comfortable conditions in the water during summer. Cooler, windier conditions with average wind speeds between 15-25 km/h (9-15 mph) are common outside this window, potentially impacting the overall dive experience.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Entering the water at France Park typically involves a gentle descent into the clear waters of the quarry lake. Visibility within this freshwater site can vary, influenced by recent weather and diver activity, yet often provides ample scope for exploring the underwater landscape. The primary diving takes place around the lake's perimeter, which is defined by limestone cliffs on three sides and a gradual sandy slope on the other. Depths are generally within recreational limits, reaching a maximum of 9.4 m (31 ft), suitable for Open Water certified divers. While specific water temperature data isn't consistently available, the quarry environment tends to warm up considerably during summer, but exposure protection is advisable for prolonged dives or in cooler seasons. The calm, protected nature of the quarry means conditions are largely unaffected by external weather systems, offering a consistent dive environment.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
For a safe and streamlined diving experience at France Park, divers must adhere to established check-in protocols. All divers, including students, are required to sign a Diver Liability Release Form once per calendar year, ideally before arriving at the park. Upon entry, a county entrance fee is due, followed by the Indy Dive Center facility check-in. It's essential to present a certification card at the dive facility and pay the daily dive resort entry fee of $25.00. Student divers should inform staff of their status and instructor. Staging gear is only permitted after checking in and being assigned a kit-up station. Divers should also be courteous when unloading equipment, promptly re-parking vehicles to allow access for others.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Because recent water temperature readings are not available for France Park, the guidance below is based mainly on current air conditions and seasonal expectations. Current surface air temperatures are roughly 18°C (64°F).
Longer-range forecasts show some uncertainty in upcoming temperature trends. A significant temperature drop is forecast; strongly suggest bringing a backup warmer suit option. A neoprene vest or hood can add flexibility if temperatures feel cooler underwater.
Based on regional estimates and current weather, the likely required exposure protection is a 5mm or thicker wetsuit. Note that local currents and upwellings can alter this. Dive depth and duration can significantly affect perceived warmth. Surface intervals may feel noticeably cooler once you exit the water. Divers planning trips later in the week may want to consider bringing a slightly warmer suit.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at France Park
Submerged within France Park's quarry lake, divers can observe a surprising array of freshwater marine life. Encounters with American Paddlefish and Flathead Catfish are possible, offering a glimpse into larger aquatic species. Numerous schools of bass, sunfish, and crappie navigate the structures and open water. Beyond these, the quarry floor and submerged features host an abundance of Painted Turtles and Crayfish, adding to the localized ecosystem's diversity. This makes for engaging observations during dives around the sunken attractions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the check-in procedures for divers at France Park?
Divers must first complete a Diver Liability Release Form, which is valid for one calendar year. Upon entering the park, pay the county entrance fee, then proceed to the Indy Dive Center facility to present your certification card and pay the daily dive resort entry fee.
Is there a daily fee to dive at France Park?
Yes, there is a dive resort entry fee of $25.00 per day. A separate county entrance fee is also necessary to enter France Park.
What kind of underwater attractions can divers expect?
The quarry contains numerous man-made structures, including a plane, a 1940s school bus, an old pick-up truck, two boats, and a snowmobile. Several training platforms and other quarry remnants are also present.
Can student divers visit France Park?
Absolutely. Student divers are welcome, but should inform a staff member during check-in that they are a student and know their instructor's name.
Are air fills and rental gear available on site?
Yes, air fills are available for $10.00, and rental gear is also offered. Scuba tank visual inspections can be performed at the facility as well.
What is the maximum depth at France Park?
Maximum depth at France Park reaches 9.4 meters (31 feet). Such a depth profile is well-suited for recreational diving and training activities.
Are there other activities available at France Park besides diving?
Yes, France Park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking or biking trails, fishing, camping at over 200 sites, and a 24-hole Disc Golf course.
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