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Slip into crystal-clear water that’s 72 degrees year-round. Paddle beneath towering cypress trees. Then do what the locals do: grab a tube, put your feet up and float with the current down the springs.
This simple approach helps protect the delicate spring ecosystems below the surface by keeping feet off native aquatic plants, reducing erosion and helping preserve the clear water that makes these places so special.
Alachua County and the surrounding area are home to some of North Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs, offering plenty of ways to spend a day outdoors. Swim in cool spring water, explore scenic rivers by kayak or slow down and enjoy the peaceful landscapes surrounding these natural treasures.
Local outfitters make it easy to get on the water, and nearby High Springs offers plenty of ways to extend your visit beyond the riverbanks. Paddle the popular 8 Springs in 8 Miles route with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures, create a custom excursion with Aquatrek Expeditions or hop aboard the Springs Hopper Shuttle for an easy way to explore the area.
7450 NE 60th St., High Springs, FL 32643
386-454-1369
www.FloridaStateParks.org
Currently Under Renovation
Please note: Water activities at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park are temporarily unavailable while renovations are underway. Swimming, paddling and other water access activities are currently closed.
Once improvements are complete, visitors will again be able to enjoy this beautiful second-magnitude spring, where millions of gallons of clear water flow daily into the Santa Fe River.
Check the Florida State Parks website before planning your visit for the latest updates.
7300 Ginnie Springs Rd., High Springs, FL 32643
(386) 454-7188
www.GinnieSpringsOutdoors.com
Best for: Scuba diving, snorkeling and camping
Distance from Gainesville: Approximately 40 minutes
Known worldwide for its remarkable water clarity, Ginnie Springs attracts visitors who come to explore both above and below the surface. The spring system features one of Florida’s most famous underwater cave environments, making it a destination for certified scuba divers.
On land, visitors can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, tubing or relaxing along the Santa Fe River. The campground offers an opportunity to extend a day on the water into a full weekend getaway.
Admission varies by season.
12087 SW US Hwy 27, Fort White, FL 32038
386-497-4690
www.FloridaStateParks.org
Best for: Tubing and wildlife
Distance from Gainesville: Approximately 45 minutes
Few Florida traditions are as memorable as floating the Ichetucknee River.
Grab a tube, put your feet up and float beneath a canopy of cypress and hardwood trees as the current carries you through one of North Florida’s most beloved waterways. Along the way, visitors may spot turtles, fish, otters and wading birds that call the river home.
Blue Hole Spring, the largest spring in the park, produces an average of 67 million gallons of water each day and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Admission is $6 per vehicle.
28800 NW 182nd Ave., High Springs, FL 32643
352-264-6868
www.AlachuaCounty.us
Best for: Families, swimming and paddling
Distance from Gainesville: Approximately 30 minutes
Poe Springs is Alachua County’s largest spring and one of the area’s favorite places to cool off on a warm Florida day. The shallow swimming area makes it a great choice for families, while the surrounding park offers picnic areas, nature trails and access to the Santa Fe River.
Spend the afternoon swimming, launch a kayak or settle into the clear water while the river flows nearby. Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures also offers its popular 8 Springs in 8 Miles paddle, connecting visitors with some of the area’s most scenic waterways.
Parking is $6 per vehicle and $1 for visitors arriving by foot or bicycle.
1447 SW Rum Island Terr., Fort White, FL 32038
386-719-7545
www.NaturalNorthFlorida.com
Best for: Kayaking and a quieter river day
Distance from Gainesville: Approximately 35 minutes
Located along the Santa Fe River, Rum Island Park offers a peaceful way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Launch a kayak, paddle through clear spring-fed waters or explore the nearby nature trail.
The park’s smaller size makes it a favorite for visitors looking for a slower-paced day outdoors.
Parking is $5 per vehicle.
The springs are more than beautiful places to swim. They are delicate ecosystems that support native plants, fish and wildlife.
Help protect these waterways by following responsible recreation practices:
Small choices help keep North Florida’s springs clear, healthy and beautiful for generations to come.
North Florida springs remain around 72 degrees year-round, offering a refreshing escape during the summer and a unique outdoor experience throughout the year.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is one of Florida’s most famous tubing destinations. Ginnie Springs also offers tubing opportunities along the Santa Fe River.
Yes. Poe Springs, Rum Island and Ginnie Springs all offer opportunities for paddling.
Bring water shoes, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a dry bag for valuables and anything you need for a comfortable day outdoors.
America’s Best Value Inn, Alachua
16100 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL 32615
386-462-3251
Blue Gem Motel
19544 NW US Highway 441, High Springs, FL 32643
385-545-1701
Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Alachua
16367 NW 167th Blvd. , Alachua, Florida 32615
386-518-6777
High Springs Country Inn
19663 US Highway 441, High Springs, FL 32643
386-454-1565
Quality Inn Alachua
15960 NW US Hwy 441, Alachua, FL, 32615
386-462-2244
Travelodge by Wyndham, Alachua
15920 NW US Highway 441, Alachua, FL 32615
386-462-2414
Hampton Inn & Suites, Alachua I-75
15930 NW 163rd Ln., Alachua, FL 32615
386-315-8100
High Springs Campground
24004 NW Old Bellamy Rd., High Springs, FL 32643
386-454-1688
Travelers Campground, Alachua
17701 April Blvd., Alachua, FL 32615
386-462-2505
Find more places to stay in Gainesville and Alachua County here.
