Camps Reef - St. Kitts

Camps Reef, off St. Kitts, offers a leisurely dive perfect for newer divers or those who prefer to take their time. We’ve found the volcanic reef structure here creates plenty of little nooks and crannies to explore, a good spot to poke around for lobsters or a shy crab. Keep an eye on the sandy channels too, we’ve often spotted stingrays settled there, sometimes a nurse shark taking a nap. The real quirk, though, is the hydrothermal vent, a little underwater campfire where warm water bubbles up – a strange, soothing feeling on your hands mid-dive.

Location
St. Kitts, St. Kitts & Nevis, Caribbean
Coordinates
17.250000, -62.650000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Marine Management Area

Best Time to Dive in St. Kitts

The warmest water temperatures in St. Kitts occur in January, averaging 27.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C (air: 25.1°C)
  • February: 27.1°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • March: 27.1°C (air: 25.1°C)
  • April: 27.1°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • May: 27.1°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • July: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • August: 27.1°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • September: 27.1°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • October: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • November: 27.1°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • December: 27.1°C (air: 25.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in St. Kitts

Nearest Dive Centres to Camps Reef

Marine Life in St. Kitts

Home to 393 recorded species including 318 reef fish, 27 hard corals, 11 other, 7 whales & dolphins, 7 sharks & rays, 6 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Camps Reef

Based on average water temperature of 27.1°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for scuba diving at Camps Reef?
Scuba diving at Camps Reef typically ranges between 40 and 70 feet (12 and 21 meters). This makes it a relatively shallow reef, offering ample bottom time for exploration.
What marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at Camps Reef?
At Camps Reef, divers can explore a colorful, creviced volcanic reef featuring sandy channels and a unique hydrothermal vent, often described as an underwater campfire. You can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including lobsters, crabs, and porcupinefish in the reef's recesses, while sandy channels are often home to resting stingrays and nurse sharks. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of diving at Camps Reef, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
Camps Reef is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While it presents an enjoyable experience for those with some diving experience, it is certainly suitable for advanced divers looking to explore its unique features. The varied topography and marine life offer plenty to discover for all skill levels beyond beginner.
When is the best time to dive Camps Reef for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time to dive Camps Reef for optimal visibility and conditions. For general guidance on dive seasons in the region, please consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Camps Reef?
The provided data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required to dive at Camps Reef. Given its intermediate difficulty, a minimum Open Water certification is typically expected, but it's always best to confirm with your local dive operator.
What are the usual current and surface conditions experienced when diving at Camps Reef?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual current and surface conditions experienced when diving at Camps Reef. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator on the day of the dive for the most accurate information.