Florida spring

Ichetucknee Head Spring

Magnitude 2Ichetucknee RiverFort WhitePublic

Photo by: Florida Springs

Update 07.15.2026: Midpoint tube launch is still closed. Launching is available from Dampier’s Landing. Ichetucknee Head Spring, located within Ichetucknee Springs State Park, is a captivating first-magnitude spring famed for its crystal-clear, 72-degree water and a powerful flow of about 67 million gallons per day. Surrounded by towering cypress trees and lush hammocks, its broad, shallow basin—averaging 5-10 feet deep with a deeper vent—marks the birthplace of the Ichetucknee River, making it a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing. Accessible via the north entrance off FL-238 (no boat needed), it’s a short walk from the parking area to the spring. Summer weekends and holidays like Labor Day see massive crowds for tubing and swimming—arrive at opening (8 AM) to beat the rush and capacity limits. For a quieter visit, aim for weekdays in early spring (March-April) or late fall (October-November), when the water’s clarity shines and the park feels serene. Pets can be in the park but may not enter the water at all. Scuba diving is only permitted at Blue Hole. Swimming is permitted at the springs but not in the river. Paddling is permitted in the river but the springs do not have paddle access. You are definitely going to want to read the park rules before visiting. This is one of the more strict parks. Water clarity is typically exceptional but can cloud slightly with rainfall or river fluctuations. While no precise water level threshold for clarity is universally set, the spring maintains its brilliance when the Ichetucknee River is stable, lower levels—generally around 2-3 feet based on historical norms. Above this, tannic water from upstream sources may intrude after heavy rain.

Ichetucknee Head Spring

Amenities & Rules

Access & Rules

Activities & Amenities