Generated illustration of a natural swimming setting; not a photograph of this location
SpringsFL

Hart Springs

By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated

Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.

Plan Hart Springs with 2026 admission rates, separate park and campground entrances, pool restrictions, seasonal hours and official access information.

Water type
Springs
Access
Designated area only
Fee
April-September: $5 per person weekdays, $8 weekends/holidays. October-March: $3. Children 5 and under and adults 65+ free. April 6, 2026 rate sheet; checked September 23, 2026.
Best season
Check current access and weather before travelling. This dated source review is not a swimming-open or water-quality report
Nearby towns
Gainesville, Fanning Springs, Bell
Water body
Hart Springs (Near Suwanee River)

Location

Map & Directions

FL
Nearby towns
Gainesville, Fanning Springs, Bell
Access location not verified
29.67376, -82.95101
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.

Sources & checks

This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.

Swimming rules
Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
Access location not verified
The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
Record updated
· This is a data update, not a field visit.

Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.

Hart Springs: day-use park or campground?

For a day at the springs, navigate to 4240 SW 86th Avenue, Bell, FL 32619. The RV campground uses a different entrance at 4183 SW 80th Court. Confirm which area your reservation or visit requires.

Admission and the pool distinction

The April 6, 2026 county-approved rate sheet lists $5 per person on weekdays and $8 on weekends or holidays during April through September. October through March admission is $3. Children five and under and adults 65 and over enter free. Daily admission includes the splash park, not the campers-only swimming pool. Camping and diving have separate arrangements.

Swimming and park rules

Use the designated swimming area when open. Canoes, paddleboards and fishing are not permitted inside that area. The springs park has a no-pets policy, distinct from the campground pet policy. Do not assume clear-looking water means conditions suit every swimmer; ask staff about current access and supervise children.

Hours and current conditions

The operator lists day-use hours of 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. April through September, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through March. Check park notices or call 352-463-3444 before travel. No current swimming-open status was established by the retrieved notices page.

Sources

Reviewed September 23, 2026 using the operator FAQ and April 2026 rate sheet. The older directory pin has not been verified as an entrance.

Getting There

Use the official springs park entrance at 4240 SW 86th Avenue, Bell, FL 32619. Follow posted signs and staff directions. The older directory coordinate is not a verified entrance. The RV campground is separate at 4183 SW 80th Court.

Access Notes

Seasonal day admission applies. Springs park and RV campground have separate entrances. Day admission excludes the campers-only pool; confirm swimming access before travel.

Plan Your Visit

Parking & Access

Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.

Regulations & Fees

Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.

Seasonality & Flow

Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.

What to Bring

Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.

Nearby Facilities

Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.

Map data retrieved 2026-06-15

Hart Springs Park

Park

0.1 mi 4.6 (774)

Hart Springs Park, 4240 SW 86th Ave, Bell, FL 32619

Barbecue grillBasketball courtPicnic tablesPublic restroom

Nature Coast Trail - Suwannee River Bridge

Park

4.7 mi 4.8 (102)

17441 N W Old Fannin Rd, Fanning Springs, FL 32693

Cycling lanes

Fanning Springs Trailhead

State park

5.8 mi 4.5 (25)

Nature Coast State Trail, Fanning Springs, FL 32693

Restroom

Public bathroom

5.8 mi 3.8 (10)

18020 US-19, Fanning Springs, FL 32693

Fanning Springs State Park

State park

5.9 mi 4.7 (2445)

18020 Northwest, 18020 US-19, Fanning Springs, FL 32693

This Suwannee River state park based around a natural spring offers swimming, camping & snorkeling.

Barbecue grillCycling lanesPicnic tablesPublic restroom

Suwannee River Bend RV Park

Campground

5.9 mi 4.5 (340)

28872 SE Hwy 19, Old Town, FL 32680

Truck Parking Club

Parking lot

6.8 mi

17210 US-19, Fanning Springs, FL 32693

Ranger Station

State park

12.3 mi 5 (1)

11650 NW 115th St, Chiefland, FL 32626

Live Conditions Nearby

Checking nearby USGS water conditions…

Frequently Asked Questions About Hart Springs

Is Hart Springs free to visit?

Reported fee information: April-September: $5 per person weekdays, $8 weekends/holidays. October-March: $3. Children 5 and under and adults 65+ free. April 6, 2026 rate sheet; checked September 23, 2026. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.

Is swimming allowed at Hart Springs?

Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for Hart Springs. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Check with the land manager and follow posted restrictions.

What type of swimming spot is Hart Springs?

Hart Springs is a springs on Hart Springs (Near Suwanee River) located in Florida, near Gainesville. Plan Hart Springs with 2026 admission rates, separate park and campground entrances, pool restrictions, seasonal hours and official access information.

When is the best time to visit Hart Springs?

Seasonal planning notes: Check current access and weather before travelling. This dated source review is not a swimming-open or water-quality report. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.

What facilities are available at Hart Springs?

Reported facilities at Hart Springs include: Picnic shelters and splash park; RV campground facilities are separate. Day admission does not include the campers-only pool. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.

Is camping available near Hart Springs?

Separate RV campground reservations and charges; use 4183 SW 80th Court, Bell.

Highlights

Separate springs park and campground entrances
Seasonal day-use admission
Splash park included in day admission
Campground pool restricted to campers

Unique Features

Spring recreation park near Bell
Different day-use and overnight facilities

Location & Area Map

Safety Information

Important Safety Tips

  • Follow posted swimming boundaries and staff instructions
  • Assess current conditions and swimming ability before entering
  • Supervise children closely
  • Do not enter closed areas
  • Keep boats, paddleboards and fishing outside the swimming area

Cultural & Historical Context

Historical Background

The Suwanee River’s historical and cultural significance is tied to Florida’s early settlers and Native American tribes, celebrated in Stephen Foster’s famous song.

Photography Guide

Photo Opportunities

Use permitted viewing areas and respect wildlife. A photograph is not evidence of current swimming access or water quality.

Conservation & Ethics

Protect This Place

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect habitats. Hart Springs actively preserves its aquifer system and educates visitors on environmental stewardship.

Explore More Nearby Swimming Guides

You Might Also Like

At a Glance

Best Time to Visit
Check current access and weather before travelling. This dated source review is not a swimming-open or water-quality report.
Difficulty Level
Developed park facilities do not establish suitability for every swimming ability. Check conditions with staff.
Fee
April-September: $5 per person weekdays, $8 weekends/holidays. October-March: $3. Children 5 and under and adults 65+ free. April 6, 2026 rate sheet; checked September 23, 2026.
Facilities
Picnic shelters and splash park; RV campground facilities are separate. Day admission does not include the campers-only pool.
Activities
Swimming, snorkeling, scuba
Phone
352-463-3444

Safety & Access Notice

This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.

You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.

Camping Information

Separate RV campground reservations and charges; use 4183 SW 80th Court, Bell.

Nearby Attractions

  • Fanning Springs State Park - State Park
  • Suwannee River - Natural Waterway
  • Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park - State Park
  • Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring - Natural Attraction
  • Manatee Springs State Park - State Park
  • Gainesville - Town
  • Florida Museum of Natural History - Museum

Loading weather data…

Safety & Access Notice

This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.

  • Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
  • Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
  • Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
  • Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
  • Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
  • Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.

You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.

J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes

Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.

Explore More Swimming Holes

Discover other amazing natural swimming destinations across America