Ichetucknee State Park North Entrance
State park
4.8 (986)
8294 SW Elim Church Rd, Fort White, FL 32038
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomSwings
SpringsFL
Ichetucknee Springs Swimming Destinations
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Choose the right Ichetucknee entrance for spring swimming or tubing. Compare access, fees, Blue Hole precautions and the dated Midpoint launch closure.
Swimming restriction
Swim or snorkel only at the headspring and Blue Hole. No swimming or snorkeling in the river; tubers must remain on or in their flotation devices. Blue Hole is for experienced swimmers.
Official sources checked:
Water type
Springs
Access
Designated area only
Fee
$6 per vehicle (2-8 people); $4 single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle (1-2 people); $2 pedestrians, bicyclists and extra passengers. Rentals and transportation cost extra.
Best season
Check current park alerts before any visit. Weekends and holidays can reach capacity
Nearby towns
Fort White, High Springs
Water body
Ichetucknee Headspring And Blue Hole Spring; River Tubing Is Separate
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Fort White, High Springs
Designated beach search
Ichetucknee Springs State Park North Entrance, 8294 SW Elim Church Road, Fort White, FL
Map searches for the named location. Confirm the entrance and current access with the park before you go.
A closer look
Photos of Ichetucknee Springs Swimming Destinations
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
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.
- Approximate town location
- The map represents a nearby town, not an entrance or swimming spot.
- 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.
Choose the Right Ichetucknee Entrance
A spring swim and a river float are different trips here. For the headspring and Blue Hole, go to the North Entrance at 8294 SW Elim Church Road in Fort White. Tubing and the rental General Store use the South Entrance at 12087 SW US Highway 27. Check the official entrance guide before navigating; our map pin is only an approximate town location.
Where Swimming Is Allowed
Swimming and snorkeling are restricted to the headspring and Blue Hole. Neither is permitted in the river. Blue Hole involves a half-mile walk and is intended for experienced swimmers because of its depth and strong current. There is no lifeguard. Tubes belong on the permitted river float, not in the spring swim areas. Read the park's activity-specific rules before packing.
Tubing Alerts and Admission
Checked September 23, 2026: the park's March 17 notice still lists Midpoint Tube Launch as closed for repairs. It directs tubers to Dampier's Landing at the South Entrance. The May 20 capacity notice applies even to visitors with prepaid passes or rental reservations. Do not wait on adjacent roads for reopening. Review current park alerts before departure.
Fees and Daily Timing
Admission is $6 per vehicle with two to eight people, $4 for a single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle with one or two people, and $2 for pedestrians, cyclists and extra passengers. Rental and transport charges are separate. The park opens at 8 a.m. and closes at sunset, but water access ends earlier. The hours and fees page lists Blue Hole closing one hour before sunset and the headspring 30 minutes before sunset. Official pages disagree on a tube-rental cutoff; confirm with the concessionaire before relying on a late arrival.
Getting There
For swimming, use the North Entrance at 8294 SW Elim Church Road, Fort White, FL 32038. For tubing and the rental General Store, use the South Entrance at 12087 SW US Highway 27, Fort White, FL 32038. These are different entrances. Navigate using the official entrance addresses rather than this listing's approximate town pin. Follow ranger instructions and posted launch restrictions on arrival.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Rules checked September 23, 2026. Swimming is limited to the headspring and Blue Hole at the North Entrance. Tubing uses the South Entrance. The March 17, 2026 alert still lists Midpoint Tube Launch as closed for repairs, with Dampier's Landing as the tubing alternative. Capacity closures include prepaid visitors. Check official alerts 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
Swim or snorkel only at the headspring and Blue Hole. No swimming or snorkeling in the river; tubers must remain on or in their flotation devices. Blue Hole is for experienced swimmers. 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
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
State park
4.8 (8250)
12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038
Park featuring a 6-mi. river with summer tubing through wetlands, wildlife sightings & snorkeling.
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom
Ichetucknee Park South Entrance
State park
4.6 (98)
12087 US-27, Fort White, FL 32038
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom
Restroom and Showers
Public bathroom
3 (3)
426 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643
Oleno State Park and River Rise Magnolia Campground
Campground
4.7 (132)
1894 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
O'Leno State Park
State park
4.6 (2017)
410 SE Oleno Park Rd, High Springs, FL 32643
State park on the Santa Fe river featuring a historical suspension bridge, plus camping & hiking.
Barbecue grillCycling lanesPicnic tablesPublic restroom
River Rise Preserve State Park
State park
4.6 (71)
373 US-27, High Springs, FL 32643
Barbecue grillPicnic tables
High Springs RV Resort and Campground
Campground
4.3 (296)
24004 Old Bellamy Rd, High Springs, FL 32643
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Frequently Asked Questions About Ichetucknee Springs Swimming Destinations
Which entrance should I use for swimming?
Use the North Entrance at 8294 SW Elim Church Road, Fort White, for the headspring and Blue Hole. The South Entrance at 12087 SW US Highway 27 serves tubing and the rental General Store.
Can I swim or snorkel in the Ichetucknee River?
No. Swimming and snorkeling are restricted to the two designated springs at the North Entrance. Tubers must remain on or in their flotation devices on the river.
Is Blue Hole suitable for beginner swimmers?
The park recommends Blue Hole only for experienced swimmers because of depth and strong current. No lifeguard is on duty; do not treat clear water as evidence of safety.
Is Midpoint Tube Launch open?
As checked September 23, 2026, the March 17 park notice still lists Midpoint closed for repairs and directs tubers to Dampier's Landing. Recheck the official alert before travel.
Does paying ahead guarantee admission?
No. Entry is first-come, first-served, and capacity closures apply even to visitors with prepaid day passes or rental reservations.
Highlights
North Entrance for headspring and Blue Hole swimming
South Entrance for tubing access and rentals
Separate swimming and river-use rules
Check capacity closures before departure
Unique Features
Two designated spring swimming areas
Separate tubing and paddling routes
Half-mile trail to Blue Hole
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Blue Hole has depth and strong-current hazards and is intended for experienced swimmers
- Do not swim or snorkel in the river
- Keep children closely supervised, avoid wildlife and follow posted closures
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Photograph from permitted visitor areas without blocking access or entering restricted water. Respect other visitors' privacy.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Keep out of protected river vegetation and follow the park's restricted-items rules. Check the official rules before packing for either spring swimming or tubing.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Check current park alerts before any visit. Weekends and holidays can reach capacity; prepaid admission or rentals do not guarantee entry.
Difficulty Level
Blue Hole is for experienced swimmers because of depth and strong current. A short approach to a spring does not establish swimming suitability.
Fee
$6 per vehicle (2-8 people); $4 single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle (1-2 people); $2 pedestrians, bicyclists and extra passengers. Rentals and transportation cost extra.
Facilities
The park lists restrooms at both entrances and south takeout, picnic areas and outdoor showers. A headspring chair lift is listed; contact staff about availability and your access needs before travelling.
Activities
Swimming,Tubing,Snorkeling
Phone
386-497-4690
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
Arrange overnight accommodation separately; do not assume park day admission includes camping.
Nearby Attractions
- O'Leno State Park - State Park
- Manatee Springs State Park - State Park
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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.
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