Thursday, July 31, 2014

Ichetucknee, Florida's Hidden Treasure

The Memorial weekend 2011 we loaded the kids in the car and headed 5 hours north from South Florida to Jacksonville. Then we drove west about 2 hours more to visit the beautiful hidden place known as Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

The crystalline Ichetucknee River runs about six miles through gorgeaous natures wetlands before meeting up with Santa Fe River. In 1972, Ichetucknee became a National Natural Landmark. The park is a hidden secret for its location but its worth a trip to see one of Florida's wonders. Highlights of the park are as follows:

1. The Head Spring is the nature like pool area where swimmers can take a dip and enjoy the shallow as well as deeper area. The water average to be about 72 degrees and may seems cold to some as it may be just perfect for others. Keep in mind the cool climate of the water is what makes this a paradise for humans. If waters were to be any warmer this would make the water a inviting breeding ground for alligators and snakes as all other water areas are in Florida. So I would say, BRING IN THE COLD BABY!!!

2. For those seeking a bit colder water and some deeper waters you also have the Blue Hold. A half-mile walk through the Ichetucknee forest and cypress flood plain leads to Blue Hole Spring, the largest spring in the park. The bottom of the hole opening is at a 30 foot depth. The walk to get to the Blue Hole is beautifully relaxing.







3. Visitors can also enjoy tubing the crystal clear waters. Its roughly a 2 -3 hour ride and its full of natures splendors. Thousands of people visit the river and springs each year. Common ways to take the ride are tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Its nice to stop and take dips in different areas for a refreshing cool down.


4. The park is great for camping and picnics. Basically prepare for a day to be completely surround by natural beauty.


For more information and direction go to: Florida State Park Site