Gilboa Quarry
BackGilboa Quarry, a former limestone quarry operational since the 1890s and repurposed for diving in 1990, has established itself as a significant freshwater scuba diving destination in the Midwest. Located in Ottawa, Ohio, it attracts a steady stream of divers from surrounding states and Canada, drawn by its unique underwater environment and comprehensive on-site facilities. The venue serves a dual purpose, catering to both recreational divers and those seeking technical training, while also offering amenities that make it a viable weekend getaway.
The Underwater Experience
The quarry's primary appeal is its thoughtfully curated underwater landscape. The water, which is noted for being unusually clear for an inland body of water, is divided into two main sections. The eastern side offers a shallower environment, with depths reaching about 65 feet, making it an ideal training ground for new divers and those working on scuba certification. The western side presents a greater challenge, plunging to depths of over 130 feet. Here, the water remains consistently cold, around 41°F at the bottom, which simulates conditions for more advanced or technical diving disciplines. This versatility allows the quarry to accommodate a wide spectrum of skill levels simultaneously.
A significant draw for those undertaking an underwater tour is the array of deliberately sunken objects. Divers can navigate through a Grumman airplane, a Sikorsky helicopter, school buses, and various other vehicles. These attractions are not merely dropped into the water; many are connected by guide ropes, which greatly aids in navigation and ensures divers can efficiently move from one point of interest to another without getting disoriented. This feature is particularly praised by visiting divers. For those interested in adventure travel, the ability to interact with these large, submerged structures provides a unique and memorable experience.
Aquatic Life and Environment
The quarry is also known for its robust aquatic population. It hosts 17 different species of fish, including large trout, koi, catfish, and famously, paddlefish that can reportedly reach up to 7 feet in length. This abundance of life adds a dynamic element to every dive. The facility encourages interaction by selling fish food for a nominal fee, and the fish have become accustomed to divers, often approaching them in large schools. While this is a highlight for many, visitors should be aware that the fish can become quite assertive when food is present.
Facilities and Accommodations
Gilboa Quarry positions itself as more than just a day-trip location; it is equipped to handle multi-day stays, making it a potential vacation package destination for the diving community. The on-site campground is a key component of this offering.
- Camping Options: The facility provides a range of camping choices, including numerous tent sites and RV spots with varying amenities like water and electrical hookups up to 50 amps. For those without their own lodging, a bunkhouse offers a budget-friendly alternative with individual cots for rent.
- Diver Support Services: A well-equipped dive shop is located on-site, providing essential services. Air and banked Nitrox (~31%) fills are readily available and are considered reasonably priced by many patrons. The availability of an "air card" offers a discount for multiple fills. The shop also handles equipment rentals, though this is one area where the facility faces criticism.
- General Amenities: To support campers and day visitors, there are permanent restroom facilities with flush toilets and hot showers near the main entrance. Closer to the water, portable toilets are available for convenience. A small food truck operates on-site, and for gear transport, carts are provided free of charge from the main parking area to the docks.
Points of Contention and Areas for Improvement
While the overall sentiment regarding Gilboa Quarry is highly positive, with a 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews, there are consistent points of criticism that prospective visitors should consider when planning their trip and managing their travel budget.
High Cost of Rentals
The most frequently cited drawback is the cost of equipment rentals, which many visitors describe as "very expensive." For divers who do not own a full set of gear, this can significantly increase the cost of a visit. The clear advice from repeat visitors is to bring as much of your own equipment as possible to keep expenses down. This makes the quarry a more affordable destination for established divers compared to beginners who may need to rent everything.
Weekend Crowds and Infrastructure Strain
The quarry's popularity means that weekends can become extremely busy. This influx of divers can lead to several issues. Firstly, the increased activity, particularly from students practicing buoyancy, can stir up silt and reduce visibility in the shallower sections. Secondly, the physical infrastructure shows signs of strain under heavy use. One specific complaint involves the access points to the dive platforms, which are described as narrow and surrounded by muddy, undeveloped ground with exposed roots. Navigating this area with heavy scuba gear can be awkward and potentially hazardous.
Operational Concerns
Some experienced divers have raised concerns about procedures at the fill station, particularly regarding Nitrox fills using partial pressure blending without verifying that customer tanks are oxygen clean. While this may not affect the average recreational diver renting equipment, it is a point of concern for technical divers and those with their own specialized gear. Additionally, the on-site food options are limited, with some reports indicating only drinks and light snacks are available, so visitors planning a full day should consider bringing their own provisions.
Conclusion
Gilboa Quarry has earned its reputation as a premier site for diving tourism in the American Midwest. Its strengths lie in the well-maintained underwater attractions, diverse aquatic life, and the thoughtful infrastructure that supports both diving and overnight camping. It is a highly versatile location, genuinely catering to everyone from the first-time diver seeking certification to the seasoned technical diver. However, the experience is not without its flaws. High rental costs can be a barrier for some, and the weekend crowds can diminish the quality of the experience both in and out of the water. For those planning a visit, a weekday trip may offer a more serene and enjoyable time. By arriving with your own gear and being prepared for some minor rustic elements, visitors can fully appreciate what makes this repurposed quarry a standout destination in the world of specialty travel.
