🌤 Weather at Ichetucknee Springs State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46–88 °F | 69–92 °F | 48–88 °F | 40–70 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at High Springs, 14 mi away, elevation 65 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
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.
Explore More Florida State Parks
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Florida. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Florida guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Troy Spring State Park (a short drive away) or Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Park policy: You can walk your dog on the Trestle Point and Pine Ridge trails at the north end and the Discovery Trail behind the visitor center at the south end, and dogs are welcome in the picnic areas and inside the visitor center as long as someone is attending them. Every trail leading to a launch or swimming area is closed to pets.
- Pets allowed?
- Dogs only on three named trails, in picnic areas and inside the visitor center
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leashes may not exceed 6 feet; pets must be under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not permitted on beaches, boardwalks or playgrounds, or in bathing areas — swimming pets can be viewed as prey by alligators.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in any state park buildings, cabins or cabin areas.
- Park-specific rules
- No animal, service animals included, may enter the water anywhere in the park, and pets are barred from tubes, canoes, kayaks and every other vessel. A service animal may accompany you on the river only in a hard-bottomed Class A recreational vessel with sides at least 6 inches high.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at several parks including Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs (free kennels at the entrance), Weeki Wachee Springs and Egmont Key; in campgrounds pets must be confined in the camping unit 11 p.m.-7 a.m.
Are dogs allowed at Ichetucknee Springs State Park?
Dogs only on three named trails, in picnic areas and inside the visitor center.
Beyond that, Florida’s statewide rules apply.
Rules verified July 2026 via floridastateparks.org. More: Florida state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Ichetucknee Springs State Park
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