Royal Springs
Royal Springs
Location
Address: 20051 157th Lane, O’Brien
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. Royal Springs is located on the Suwannee River group of springs near Live Oak, FL.
Depth
Depth in the center of Royal Springs reaches near 30 feet (fluctuates based on water levels) where there is a platform to tie off a float. Beneath an underhang reaches another 20 feet or so before reaching into a cave (it is not advised to Freedive in this part of the spring).
Clarity/Marine Life
Visibility at Royal Springs can be very good (30+ feet) or extremely poor (at times undive-able). The spring is subject to murkiness when Suwannee River levels rise during rainy season. During the weekends the spring experiences traffic from other divers and swimmers and visibility is easily stirred up.
Several Bass, Bluegill, Sunfish as well as turtles inhabit Royal Springs. A delightful boardwalk and trail wrap around the spring and spring run eventually leading to the Suwannee River. The natural scenery along this trail is something you won’t want to miss!
Accessibility
Make sure you bring good directions, because the path to Royal Springs may seem like a long road to nowhere. You’ll have to trek down a few dirt roads but once you arrive, the spring has ample parking. No restroom facilities, only portalets are on site. The path to the spring is a short one and you’ll find that to enter you’ll either need to walk the plank or walk down a little further and you’ll see a beach like entrance on the other side of the spring.
There is a boat/kayak launch along the Suwannee River.
Price
Free! Royal Springs is a County Park and no entry fee is required. Thank you Suwannee County!
Elements
At Royal Springs, there is no wind, waves, or current to worry about and water stays a consistent 70-72 degrees!
Traffic
Royal Springs is a popular swimming hole and dive site. Weekends, especially in summer, can experience heavy traffic.
Overall
Royal Springs is a good place to practice intermediate Freediving while being immersed in natural beauty. Not only the diving, but other features such as the high dive platform, spring run and trail, and views of the Suwannee River. Pack a lunch and use a pavilion to have a picnic!
**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.