MAIN PAGE


PLACES TO GO

1.- Blue Springs:
This commercially operated spring is known for its exceptionally clear water and stunning underwater scenery, making it popular with underwater photographers. Though scuba diving is not allowed, it's a delightful spot for swimming and snorkeling. A playground, picnic area, camping/RV site, bathhouse and concession store are just some of the accommodations that await visitors. A 1,500-foot boardwalk follows the spring flow to the Santa Fe River. For more information, contact Blue Springs, P.O. Box 331, High Springs, FL 32655, or call 1-386-454-1369.

2.- Ginnie Springs Outdoors, LLC:
A 200-acre site popular with families and serious divers alike, the park is built around a system of seven springs. An extensive underwater cavern makes this a highly-rated dive destination.
 Camping (wilderness or sites with electricity), a rental cottage and rental VARDO, picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, canoeing, tubing and volleyball are available for visitors. For more information, please, contact Ginnie Springs Outdoors, LLC, 7300 NE Ginnie Springs Rd., High Springs, FL 32643, or call 1-386-454-7188.

3.- Santa Fe River:
The Santa Fe River has its origins in the Santa Fe swamp and wetlands of lakes Alto and Santa Fe in Bradford County. It disappears underground at O'Leno State Park and, three miles later, reappears at River Rise Sate Preserve just north of High Springs. The spring-fed Ichetucknee River joins the Santa Fe River near Fort White before its confluence with the Suwannee River just south of Branford. Because the lower Santa Fe River is fed by numerous springs, and its waters are crystal clear, it is popular with canoeists and swimmers and offers productive fishing for anglers.
 

4.- Ellie Ray’s River Landing:
Located on the beautiful Santa Fe River, this RV park features a winding boardwalk and spring-fed “swimmin’ hole” right off the river’s bank.  A floating dock provides convenient docking and easy river access for boaters, as well as a great spot to watch for manatee and other Florida wildlife. The RV park offers entertainment for the whole family!
For more information, please, contact Ellie Ray's River Landing, 3349 NW 110th St., Branford, FL 32008 or call 1-386-935-9518.

5.- Suwannee River:
Largemouth and Suwannee Bass provide excellent fishing opportunities. Both can be caught along the shoreline near fallen trees or stumps. Several species of catfish are plentiful and offer real excitement for anglers young and old alike. Redbreast and spotted sunfish are the most abundant game fish in the river and are easily caught near shoreline brush and stumps. The peak season is May through September, but good catches are possible year round. During the winter months, fish tend to concentrate in the many deep holes found along the river bends. Access points include boat ramps at Hart Springs off of CR 344 and CR 232 west of Bell; Eula and Wannee Landings, both off CR 341, Rock Bluff at the CR 340 bridge and several other locations. Obtain a map of the Lower Suwannee River Boat Ramps & Canoe Launches from the Gilchrist County Chamber of Commerce at (352) 463-3467. 

6.- Hart Springs Park:
A family-oriented recreation area, the park boasts one of the area’s largest swimming facilities and a half-mile boardwalk through the pristine cypress hammock.  From volleyball to pedal boat rentals, Hart Springs also offers a wide variety of amenities with the family in mind. Why not take advantage of our area, the largest concentration of fresh water springs on Earth?
Contact: Hart Springs Park, 4240 SW 86th Ave., Bell, FL 32619 or call 1-352-463-3444.

7.- Nature Coast State Trail :
This park is a 31.7-mile paved trail for walkers, runners, skaters, hikers, cyclists and horseback riders. Connecting all three counties, the Trail cuts through quaint towns, rustic farmland and unspoiled forests, carrying visitors across the historic Suwannee River on an abandoned railroad trestle.
 It is a wonderful to stay in shape and enjoy nature at its best...
More information? Contact Fanning Springs State Park, 11650 NW 115th St., Chiefland, FL 32626 or call 1-352-463-3420.

8.- Fanning Springs State Park:
This beautiful State Park is one of the wonders of our county... Manatees often enter the spring run during cool weather at this 188-acre state park. Amenities include a playground, volleyball courts and a softball field. This is an excellent spot for picnicking, hiking and swimming. 
For more information, please, contact Fanning Springs State Park, 11650 NW 115th St., Chiefland, FL 32626 or call 1-352-463-3420.

9.- Lower Suwannee - Santa Fe Conservation Lands:
Outdoor enthusiasts looking for solitary, back-to-nature experiences will want to explore some of these public lands that feature natural communities along the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. The tracts offer minimal facilities, often just a parking area and information sign. Road access is often limited because of the swampy nature of the river floodplain. Nonetheless, the lands are open every day during daylight hours for hiking, nature study, fishing, bicycling and horseback riding, unless otherwise posted. Request a copy of the recreation guide from: Suwannee River Water Management District, 9225 CR 49, Live Oak, FL 32060. Phone 1-800-226-10666 or 1-386-362-1001.


 

Back to main page

PRESENTED BY THE GILCHRIST COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 
220 South Main Street, Trenton, Florida 32693 
(352) 463-3467    Fax (352) 463-3469