Ichetucknee Springs State Park-Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is one of the best places to experience the real Florida. Located in Fort White, this state park is a year round destination with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Here is everything you need to know before your visit.
We love visiting Ichetucknee Springs State Park every summer. The peaceful float down Florida’s natural lazy river and the mesmerizing turquoise water have us coming back again and again. With so much to see and do here, this state park has become a very popular Florida destination.
When Should I Visit?
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a year-round destination. You can experience the beauty of this park and its many activities in any season. If you plan on doing an activity that is in the water, the water is around 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year. Even in the summertime, that temperature can be a bit of a shock the first time you enter the river. The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset.
North or South Entrance?
Ichetucknee Springs State Park has two entrances-the North Entrance and the South Entrance. The North Entrance offers access to the head spring (perfect for swimming) as well as the Blue Hole (for diving). If you plan on canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding, there is a launch site at both entrances. If you plan on tubing, head to the South Entrance. Here you can enter the river at the mid point or further down the river at Dampier’s Landing.
Cost
There is a $6 entrance fee to the park. This fee is per vehicle. There is a tram at the South Entrance that transports passengers to the midpoint launch site for $5.50 per person. Wristbands can be purchased at the South Entrance.
Activities
In addition to swimming, canoeing, kayaking, diving, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and tubing, Ichetucknee Springs State Park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
Rentals
Rentals are available on site. Canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and tubes can be rented from the General Store. Tubes will be transported on the tram with a wristband purchase, and all other water equipment can be transported by Paddling Adventures.
Additional Tips
-Ichetucknee has a key holding service at the General Store for $3. Speaking from personal experience, dropping your keys in he river and swimming against the current to get them does not make for a relaxing experience.
-Drinking water is permitted on the river, but it must be in a reusable bottle. Any bags taken down to the river will be inspected.
-Visit on a weekday early in the morning to beat the crowds.
We hope you enjoy your visit to the springs! For more info on amazing Florida destinations, check out our blog post here!
