3 of the Best Blue Springs in Florida
The state of Florida has hundreds of natural springs to explore. We’re highlighting 3 of the best blue springs in Florida that you have to see for yourself!
Florida is home to some of the best beaches, but did you know that Florida has close to 1,000 natural springs? Some of these springs are perfect for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Keep reading to learn more about our 3 favorite springs in Florida.
Ichetucknee Springs
North Entrance: 8294 SW Elim Church Rd, Fort White, FL 32038
South Entrance: 12087 SW US HW 27 Fort White, FL 32038
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. With Florida’s warmer climate, 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.
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. The 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). Both the head spring and the Blue Hole have viewing areas. If you plan on canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding, there is a launch site at both entrances. Head to the South Entrance if you plan on tubing. Here you can enter the river at the mid point or further down the river at Dampier’s Landing.
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.
Read More: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Blue Spring
2100 W. French Ave. Orange City FL 32763
Blue Spring State Park is one of our new favorites, as we visited for the first time this winter. Like Ichetucknee Springs, the water stays at a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year round making it the perfect haven for manatees in the colder months. In the winter, hundreds of manatees are spotted in the spring. There is a 1/3 mile boardwalk along the water for easy viewing. From November-March, all water activities are suspended to protect the manatees.
From April-October, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, tubing, paddle boarding, diving, canoeing, and kayaking. There are also hiking trails to explore as well. You can find tube rentals at the Camp Store and kayak rentals down by the water.
Read More: 10 Places You Have to Visit in Florida!
Gilchrist Blue Spring
7450 NE 60th St, High Springs, FL 32643
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the newest Florida state park. While it is a smaller park, it is worth a visit. We were able to visit this park and Ichetucknee in the same day. The large spring, Gilchrist Blue Spring is open for swimming and snorkeling. This state park is home to quite a few smaller springs that can be viewed from the nature walk trail.
Bonus: Ginnie Springs
7300 Northeast Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643
If you’re looking for another Florida spring to visit, head to Ginnie Springs. Ginnie Springs has become quite popular and draws visitors with its natural beauty. Ginnie Springs is not a state park, so prices are a bit higher than the other springs we have mentioned. The per person entrance fee is $15-$20, and tubes, snorkeling gear, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards can be rented at an additional cost.
A visit to a blue spring is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Florida. Whether you choose to visit the manatees at Blue Spring, peacefully float down the Ichetucknee River, or view the springs along the nature trail at Gilchrist Blue Spring, we hope you have a great time!
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