San Solomon Springs, Toyahvale, Texas

With a maximum 25-foot depth, constant 72-76-degree-F temperature and swimming-pool visibility, the 1.75-acre artesian spring pool fed by San Solomon Springs seems ideal for the novice diver. The west Texas jewel is part of Balmorhea State Park, which rests on 46 acres in the foothills of the Davis Mountains, southwest of Balmorhea in Reeves County, Texas. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s, the park was deeded by   private owners and opened in 1968.

Depths to: 25 feet (8 m)

Visibility: 40-80 feet (6-12 m)

Water temperature: Constant 72°-76° F (22°-25° C)

Marine species: The endangered Comanche Springs pupfish and Pecos gambusia, and catfish, turtles and many other creatures.

Fees: $3 per diver, per day. Camping fees vary.

On-site amenities: Air fills are available locally. Restrooms, showers, campsites, shelters, water, electricity, cable TV hookups. Solomon Springs Courts provides motel-like rooms with and without  kitchens, dining hall/meeting room, bathhouse, layground and summer concession area.

More info: Phone (915) 375-2370.

Open: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round. C-cards are required and sign-ins must be done during office hours which vary by season. A complete set of diving rules is available at   www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/balmorhe.

Getting there: Exit Interstate 10 on Texas Highway 17 about 50 miles west of Fort Stockton. Go south eight miles to Balmorhea. From Balmorhea, it's another four miles on Texas Highway 17 to the   park.