Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is Florida’s premier tubing paradise—a crystal-clear spring-fed river where eight major springs maintain a constant 72°F year-round. Float through pristine turquoise waters past ancient cypress trees, snorkel at Blue Hole Spring, and explore the Headspring National Natural Landmark. Millions of gallons of crystal-clear water flow daily through this unspoiled North Florida treasure, creating one of America’s most popular and refreshing tubing destinations.
📢 February 2026 Status Updates
- Midpoint Tube Launch: CLOSED for repairs (since March 2024, reopening TBD)
- Dampier’s Landing (South): Open year-round for tubing
- Summer Capacity: North Entrance limited to 750 tubers/day
- Park reaches capacity on hot weekends—arrive early!
Eight Crystal-Clear Springs
| Spring Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🌊 Number | 8+ major springs |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 72°F (22°C) year-round |
| 💧 Flow | Millions of gallons daily |
| 🏆 Headspring | National Natural Landmark |
| 🤿 Blue Hole | Popular snorkeling spot |
Tubing – Florida’s Best Float
| Tubing Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Dampier’s Landing | South Entrance – OPEN year-round |
| ⚠️ Midpoint Launch | CLOSED for repairs (since Mar 2024) |
| ⏱️ Duration | 45 min – 1 hour float |
| 📏 Tube Size Limit | Max 60″ length x 60″ width |
| Summer Limits (Memorial Day – Labor Day) | Count |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ North Entrance | 750 tubers/day |
| 🎟️ Mid-Point (when open) | 2,250 tubers/day |
Tube Rentals & Services
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛟 Tube Rentals | Available at park concessionaire |
| 🚐 Tram Service | Transport back to parking |
| 🛟 Own Tubes | Allowed (size limit applies) |
River Protection Rules
| Prohibited | Reason |
|---|---|
| 🚫 Alcohol | Protect pristine waters |
| 🚫 Disposable Items | No single-use plastics |
| 🚫 Pets | Not permitted on/near water |
Swimming & Snorkeling
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| 🏊 Swimming | Headspring, Blue Hole Spring |
| 🤿 Snorkeling | Blue Hole Spring (crystal clear!) |
| 🌿 Wildlife | Manatees (winter), turtles, fish |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry Fee | $6/vehicle, $4/single occupant, $2/pedestrian |
| 🕐 Hours | 8 AM – Sunset, 365 days/year |
| 📍 Location | Fort White, Columbia County |
| ⚠️ Capacity | May close when full; reopens as space available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Midpoint Tube Launch open at Ichetucknee?
No. The Midpoint Tube Launch has been closed for repairs since March 2024, with no confirmed reopening date as of February 2026. Currently, tubing is only available from Dampier’s Landing at the South Entrance, which operates year-round. This provides a 45-minute to 1-hour float experience.
What temperature is the Ichetucknee River?
The Ichetucknee River maintains a constant 72°F (22°C) year-round, thanks to the consistent temperature of the spring water. This makes it refreshingly cool on hot summer days and surprisingly warm during winter months. The water is crystal clear and fed by eight major springs.
Is there a daily capacity limit for tubing?
Yes, during summer. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the North Entrance is limited to 750 tubers per day. The park can reach capacity quickly on hot weekends and will temporarily close until space becomes available. Arrive early (before 10 AM) to guarantee entry on popular days!
Can you bring alcohol or disposable items?
No. To protect the pristine spring waters, alcohol and disposable items are strictly prohibited on the river. This includes single-use plastics, styrofoam coolers, and disposable containers. Bring reusable water bottles instead. These rules help maintain Ichetucknee’s crystal-clear waters for future generations.
Can you snorkel at Ichetucknee Springs?
Yes! Blue Hole Spring and the Headspring area are excellent for snorkeling in crystal-clear, 72°F water. You can see fish, turtles, and aquatic vegetation in exceptional visibility. The Headspring is designated a National Natural Landmark. Best snorkeling is typically during non-peak hours before the tubers arrive.
💧 Florida’s Crystal-Clear Paradise
Float through pristine 72°F waters, snorkel at Blue Hole Spring, and experience one of America’s most beautiful spring-fed rivers. Visit the official Ichetucknee Springs State Park website for current launch status and tube rentals.
