Kirby Lake, man-made reservoir in Abilene, Texas
Kirby Lake is a reservoir on the south side of Abilene, Texas, covering about 740 acres with a maximum depth of around 16 feet. The water has a reddish tint with limited visibility, caused by natural minerals and aquatic plants that grow throughout the lake.
The lake was impounded in 1928 and quickly became part of Abilene's landscape. Since then it has served as both a water resource and recreation area for the region.
The lake is open year-round and free to visit, with boat ramps and a fishing pier available to visitors. Swimming and camping are not permitted, but picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and a nature park on the east side with marked walking trails are available.
The lake is known among divers for the nearby Valhalla Missile Silo dive site located about 30 minutes away, which offers a unique underwater experience in an abandoned military structure. This unusual diving destination attracts adventurous divers from across the region.
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