~~~Florida State Parks Series #4 - Ichetucknee Springs State Park~~~

Welcome to Ichetucknee Springs State Park

We visited the Ichetucknee about a month ago; The crystal clear water is still 72 degrees and remains that temperature all year. The trees have lost most of their leaves, but there is still a lot of life and activity near the water. You can canoe or kayak down the river for a peaceful experience where you are sure to see plenty of birds and fish, and possibly even manatee. You can paddle upstream and then enjoy a leisurely paddle back downstream. Tubing is one of the most popular activities during the spring through the fall months. Tubing down the river is one of the most enjoyed activities at this park. For those who are not interested in tubing a short nature trail will lead you to the river’s edge. A ½ mile, round trip walk will take you to the Blue Hole, the largest spring in the park. Also, the Trestle Point Trail loop trail just under a mile in length will guide you along the river and back through the hammock forest with an additional, optional 2 mile Pine Ridge loop trail through the beautiful sandhill for the more adventurous hiker.

The crystalline Ichetucknee River flows six miles through shaded hammocks and wetlands before it joins the Santa Fe River. In 1972, the head spring of the river was declared a National Natural Landmark by the U. S. Department of the Interior. White-tailed deer, raccoons, wild turkeys, wood ducks and great blue herons can be seen from the river. Picnic areas, equipped with tables and grills, are available throughout the park.

From the north, take I-75 south to exit 423. Take SR 47 south, turn on CR 238 and follow the park signs. From the south, take I-75 north to exit 399. Take US 441 north to the city of High Springs. Take US 27 north to Ft. White; stay on US 27 north approximately 4 miles to the South Park Entrance.

Until Later