Ichetucknee Springs
Ichetucknee Springs
Location
Address: 8294 SW Elm Church Rd, Fort White, FL 32038
It is believed that Florida may have the largest convergence of freshwater springs on the planet, with over 700. These springs are naturally occurring places where crystal clear water flows from the aquifer (underground) to the surface at a crisp 72 degrees. Ichetucknee Springs is located on the Santa Fe River group of springs near Fort White, FL. Ichetucknee Springs State Park features a head spring, the Blue Hole (aka Jug Hole) Spring, and a crystal clear River that eventually leads to the Santa Fe.
Openness & Marine Life
While Ichetucknee Springs Blue Hole has a fairly broad basin, the entrance to the cavern of the spring is only about 10 by 6 feet wide. This lasts for about 5 feet or so then the spring opens up to a great big cavern where beautiful blue light beams through!
Several Bass, Bluegill, Mullet, Sunfish as well as turtles inhabit Blue Hole Springs. It is not uncommon to see otters, beavers, raccoons, alligators, wild turkey, ducks, and other birds along the Itchetucknee River!
While walking about the park, keep an eye out for Deer, Fox, Snakes and other wildlife!
Depth
Blue Hole spring is a first magnitude spring that pumps over 67 million gallons of water per day. Depth in the center of the spring reaches near 40 feet (fluctuates based on water levels). Beyond that there is an extensive cave system (it is not advised to Freedive in this part of the spring).
The Head Spring at Ichetucknee is shallow (~15ft) but very clear with pretty rock and grass structures (great for photography!)
Accessibility, Parking & Traffic
There is ample parking, nice restroom/changing facilities, and great boardwalks, but it is a bit of a trek on foot to the Blue Hole. Park can get busy on weekends, especially during Summer. Keep in mind the North entrance is used for the Head Spring and Blue Hole while the South entrance is used for tubing the river (this can get confusing!)
Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Ichetucknee Springs is a popular swimming hole and dive site. Weekends, especially in summer, can experience heavy traffic.
Clarity
Water quality at Ichetucknee Springs is some of the best we’ve ever seen. The Hole is a first magnitude spring, on average 67 million gallons of water flow from here daily, keeping the spring constantly clear.
Elements
No wind or waves but a steady current persists due to the large volume of water that flows through. This can be a challenge going down as the water is pushing you back towards the surface, proceed with caution.
Be mindful of the shallow eel grass surrounding the Blue Hole. The bottom can be easily stirred up.
Overall
Blue Hole at Ichetucknee Springs is a great place for trained Freedivers as the water and scenery are breathtaking! Spend a little more time here and also check out the head spring and the stunning Ichetucknee River. You won’t be disappointed! Before visiting the springs, we highly recommend you check out the Florida Springs Institute website. This will keep you up to date on the current state of the springs and give you access to tons of info related to Florida’s majestic springs.
We strongly advise that before diving any location, you check for the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit, respect the environment.