ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK

By  Mike Miller April 24, 2025

Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Columbia County, Florida, spans 2,669 acres of lush forests, shaded hammocks, and crystal-clear waters.

Centered around the 6-mile Ichetucknee River, fed by eight major springs, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and serene natural beauty, it’s a National Natural Landmark that draws visitors for tubing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking.

The park’s pristine ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, making it a perfect escape to experience "Old Florida" at its finest. 

Tubers on the Ichetucknee

Ichetucknee Springs has a rich history stretching back thousands of years. Native Americans relied on the river for sustenance, leaving traces of their presence alongside fossils of mastodons.

In the 17th century, the Spanish established the Mission de San Martín de Timucua near Fig Springs, a vital outpost supporting St. Augustine.

By the 1800s, settlers along the Bellamy Road quenched their thirst at the springs. 

The area thrived with phosphate mining, citrus, and cotton industries. The town of Ichetucknee, founded in 1870, boasted a post office and grist mill.

In 1970, Florida purchased the land from the Loncala Phosphate Corporation to preserve its ecological splendor, earning National Natural Landmark status in 1972. 

Located 4 miles northwest of Fort White off State Roads 47 and 238 in Fort White, Florida, the park is easily accessible from I-75.

It’s open daily from 8 am to sunset, with a $6 vehicle entrance fee ($4 if you’re alone).

The River hours are as follows: North Entrance (8294 SW Elim Church Rd) boat/kayak entry closes at 3pm. It offers access to the headspring, Blue Hole Spring, and hiking trails.

Dampier’s Landing (12087 SW U.S. 27) closes at 5 pm and is ideal for tubing. Tubing, available year-round, is most popular from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with a 750-tuber daily limit at the North Entrance.

Arrive early to beat crowds, especially on weekends. Rentals for tubes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available outside the park, and a tram service operates at the South Entrance.

Bring reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray for trails. Everyone must be off the river by 6 pm.

• The Ichetucknee River pumps 233 million gallons of water daily, maintaining a constant 72°F.  

• Blue Hole Spring, a 70-foot-deep karst vent, is a magnet for certified cave divers from October to March.  

• The park’s wildlife includes manatees in winter, otters, and rare birds along the Great Florida Bird Trail.  

• Remnants of phosphate mines and tram beds from the early 1900s are still visible, adding a historical intrigue to hikes.

ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK WEBSITE