Ichetucknee Blue Hole in Florida 2024-2025

A perfect scenic spot for swimming, snorkeling and diving

Best time: all year round

Ichetucknee Springs State Park located not far from Fort White, Florida, is famous for its spring-fed rivers, canopied woods, wildlife, and stunning swimming holes. The 2,669-acre (1,080 ha) park is home to beaver, otter, soft-shell turtle, wild turkey, and wood duck. However, visitors are mostly attracted by its eight crystalline springs that jointly create the Ichetucknee River.

Ichetucknee Blue Hole Spring (aka Jug Hole) is the most scenic part of the park that is accessible from the north entrance. The water in the spring remains at a constant 72 ºF (22 ºC) year-round, so it's an all-season experience. In the summer, the park gets very busy and limits the number of visitors to protect the river. However, it's a perfect season to spend a day with a picnic and tubing down the river. From the end of May until early September, many visitors come to cool down at the Ichetucknee River, so for a more tranquil experience, the best time to come here is during the off-season. Winter offers a fun gathering on the Ichy Nippy Dip day which is based on the polar plunge concept. It's also worth to know that scuba diving is allowed at the Blue Hole from October to March.

It takes about 10-15 minutes walking through the woods to reach the Blue Hole Spring. The basin is about 30-40 ft (9-10 m) in depth, and there is always some flow coming from the spring, so only experienced divers can try this adventure. Keep in mind that diving is not permitted in the other places along the river.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Ichetucknee Blue Hole in Florida?

The popular time to visit Ichetucknee Blue Hole in Florida is the summer season when tourists come for tubing and picnics. For a peaceful experience, visiting off-season is recommended, and winter is worth considering for the annual Ichy Nippy Dip day. Scuba diving at Blue Hole can only be enjoyed between October and March.

How deep is the basin at Ichetucknee Blue Hole Spring?

The basin at Ichetucknee Blue Hole Spring has a depth of about 30-40 ft. Despite the natural platform near the basin being 40 ft high, it is not advised to jump from it, due to safety hazards. The water is suitable for experienced and certified scuba divers only, during the permitted months from October to March.

Is scuba diving permitted year-round at the Blue Hole?

Scuba diving is not allowed year-round at Ichetucknee Blue Hole Spring; only certified divers are permitted to dive there between October and March. It's advised to avoid summer when the park sees the highest number of visitors. Scuba diving is prohibited in other areas along the river.

What animals can visitors expect to see at Ichetucknee Springs State Park?

Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers visitors the opportunity to see many animals including otters, wild turkeys, wood ducks, beavers, and soft-shell turtles. Park authorities restrict interference with wildlife, including the manatees passing through the river during winter. However, they avoid the most crowded parts of the river. Visitors are expected to comply with park rules and avoid disturbing the animals.

Can visitors swim at the other springs along the Ichetucknee River?

Swimming is allowed at the other eight crystalline springs along the Ichetucknee River, but diving is prohibited. Ichetucknee Blue Hole Spring is the most popular of the springs. Visitors should check the preserves' website for the most up-to-date information on regulations and rules to ensure maximum enjoyment of their park experience.