Ichetucknee Springs Headspring

Ichetucknee's headspring, at the park's North Entrance, is one of two springs where swimming is allowed: a clear 72°F pool at the top of a six-mile river fed by eight major springs. The springs reach up to 40 feet deep, so it suits confident swimmers and snorkelers. Nearby Blue Hole is for experienced swimmers only; arrive early, as weekends and holidays often hit capacity.

Directions

Photo: Michael Rivera · CC BY-SA 4.0

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Latest reading · SwimScore 89/100 (Get in) for a typical swimmer: air 29°C, wind 19 km/h, UV 4. Updated 23 Sept, 22:00 UTC.

Know before you go

Best conditions: Spring water stays at about 72°F year-round; weekday visits avoid the capacity closures common on weekends and holidays.
Getting in: Swim at the North Entrance of Ichetucknee Springs State Park, where swimming and snorkeling are allowed every day from 8 a.m. until 30 minutes before sundown at the headspring (Ichetucknee Spring) and Blue Hole Spring. Entry is $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle, $2 pedestrians and cyclists; entry is first-come, first-served.
Parking & transport: The park temporarily closes to all visitors when it reaches capacity, common on weekends and holidays; waiting on the roadside or at the entrance is not allowed and can draw citations.
Lifeguards: No lifeguard on duty; swim at your own risk.
Season: Year-round; the headspring closes 30 minutes before the park closes at sundown.
Who swims here: Best known for tubing, which launches from Dampier's Landing at the south entrance; the north section of the river is closed to tubing.
Watch for: Springs reach up to 40 feet deep
Blue Hole Spring is for experienced swimmers only because of its depth and strong current
Alligators sometimes visit the swim areas
No swimming anywhere on the Ichetucknee River itself
Facilities: Restrooms by the North Entrance picnic area and playground · Outdoor showers at the north and south-takeout bathhouses · Chair lift for headspring access · Picnic tables and grills · Food truck at the north entrance (seasonal hours)