Pearl Lake

Pearl Lake is widely regarded as the clearest local quarry option for Chicagoland divers, with multiple entry points and useful training areas. Access details and conditions can change, and diving is not the site's primary focus. This guide covers hours, fees, check-in, visibility, water temperatures, site layout, and map notes so you can plan efficient, low stress dives.

• Privately owned and operated, under new management as of 2023.
• Scuba diving is not the primary activity here, so official dive information may be sparse.
• Generally open for diving from mid April to mid October on Sat and Sun, 8 am to 5 pm, for $30 per day.
• Buddy diving required. No solo diving allowed, even with certification.
• Often considered the best local choice for clarity, better than Haigh and Three Oaks for many divers.
• Several distinct staging spots exist. The best locations fill first, so check in early.
• In summer, temperatures can be in the high 50s at about 50 ft. Most divers use at least a 5 mm. A 7 mm or a drysuit is strongly recommended.
• No on-site scuba shop, no air fills, and likely no dedicated oxygen or rescue gear. Bring what you need.

• Many local dive shops use Pearl Lake for training.
• Shops and groups organize day trips. Join their mailing lists or social pages to track schedules:
  • Crystal Blue Diving
  • Illinois Institute of Diving
• Average depth is around 30-40 ft, with a deep hole near 85 ft that is not in a typical training area.

Step 00: As of 2025, electronic registration is required before arrival. Complete it from home.
Step 0: The gate does not open until 10 minutes before the posted opening time. Do not block the gate by lining up early.
Step 1: Exit to Dearborn Ave, which is a frontage road and easy to miss if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Step 2: Turn at the sign. The entrance can look like a campground or residential area.
Step 3: There is a gate. Use the call button if it is closed. Do not block the gate while waiting.
Step 4: Continue west without turns until you reach the parking area and clubhouse.
Step 5: Give your name so staff can locate your registration, then pay the entry fee.
Step 6: Drive east out of the parking lot and take the second left, then continue around to your chosen dive location.
Step 7: Have fun.

Click for High Resolution

Dive Map

• The map above focuses on the east side dive area only.
• There is a north side dive area that is not mapped here.
• The west side is less interesting for many divers, except a small plane roughly 200 degrees from the East Pavilion.
• Attraction markers can be sparse, so expect some hunting and use compass navigation.