Detroit Lake

The closest dive spot to Salem, and ultra easy because there are no tides/currents to speak of. Entry is a piece of cake- just walk in off the boat ramp. Stay along the wall to stay out of way of any boaters entering after you. As far as life goes- not much to see here. Personally, I've never seen anything alive below the water- quite literally, just dirt and water. The best I've heard from some local dive masters is having seen a crawdad or salamander. (thats at best, from someone who's dove it many many times). It should be noted that much of the local govt run camp sites and docks etc are closed during the winter. For example, in early march, the boat ramp into the Big Cliff portion of the area was roped off completely with signs saying closed for winter. There are numerous roadside area's to pull off though, if you are ok entering the through the small incline off the side of the road. If so, be careful as the bottom is all silt, and will slide away as soon as you step on it. Getting out on that surface is NOT for the physically unsure. Entering from a boat ramp when possible is a MUCH more simple and realistic option for most divers. This is a great place to dive if you just need to get wet, test your gear out without fighting currents etc. It's also a very short drive from Salem, and the water temp tends to be decent in the summer it can be some of the warmest water in the state. So especially during the summer, it's an easy dive, and strait forward dive. Just don't go here looking for life, or you'll be disappointed. But for a gear-check, or to hone up on your dive skills (navigation etc). You couldn't ask for an easier spot.