Lake City, Florida

From the Bell Springs Trailhead, take the unmarked access road into the forest, where it meets with Florida Trail (blue blazes). Hop onto the Florida Trail. You will pass a pool created by Bell Springs, then turn right at the fork. The terrain becomes a bit trickier as you head into the forest, t...

At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, there are 2 main entrances - to get to Blue Hole (aka Jug Hole), go to the NORTH entrance. This is also where the main headspring is. If you accidentally go to the south entrance, you are only a few miles away, don't worry! Ask for directions at the guard shack....

A few hours north and many worlds away from Disney, the Santa Fe River winds its way through the woods of north central Florida, headed for the Suwannee River. This is the real Florida. Although the river is dark during most of the year (except the dry summer months), there are dozens of crystal ...

Nestled on the banks of the Santa Fe River, at the end of a long country road, six springs add a burst of clear water to the dark, winding river. These springs make up a park called "Ginnie Springs," a popular place for both locals and international visitors - and it's not just the clear water an...

Nestled in the shallow water of the spring run are the remains of the Civil War-era steamboat Madison which was scuttled in 1863 to keep it from being captured. A hidden gem in north-central Florida, Troy Spring has restrooms, an accessible walkway, picnic tables, an interpretive nature trail and...

Blue Springs Park is a privately owned property that encompasses a few springs along the Santa Fe River, you can learn more here. The main, Blue Spring, has a large swimming area lined with white sand beach. The main feature is a 12ft high platform over the main spring. Since the spring is upward...

This natural spring is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. The pool of water is crystal clear for swimming, scuba-diving, and jumping in from off on a cliff to the side. The water is also about 70 degrees - a perfect compliment to the hot, humid climate of Florida. A rip current in the...

Sweetwater Wetlands Park is over 125 acres of wetlands and ponds that were created to help improve the quality of water contained in the Paynes Prairie wetlands and the Florida aquifer. This initiative by the city of Gainesville has led to improved water quality as well as a place for people to c...

Located in Gainesville, FL this easy to moderate trail is approximately 3.1 miles round trip. Approximately a quarter of the trail is an elevated boardwalk that is handicapped accessible. Along the hike, you'll often see alligators, wild turkeys, wild horses, bison, and various migratory birds. ...

Stephen C. Foster State Park is a hot spot for Georgia wildlife. The swamps and bodies of water attract alligators, black bears, herons, turtles, and more. The park is ideal for birding or simply enjoying the sounds of nature. Choose from campsites, cottages, lodge, or pioneer camp for a cozy sta...

Gold head branch state park has been called the grand canyon of Florida. It hangs on the north central ridge of Florida as some of the first land that came out of the sea, which is the reason for all of the Sandhill ecosystem. The ravine was created by the headspring and flow of the Gold Head Bra...

The drive to Stephen C. Foster State Park is part of the adventure. So pack snacks, prep the tunes, and keep your gas gauge and spirits high and get ready to cruise some country roads.Because this swampland is so far from a big city, the very little light pollution around and in the park allow fo...

The paddle to Minnie's Lake from Stephen C. Foster State Park covers some of the most beautiful territory in all of the Okefenokee swamp.  Not only will you immerse yourself in beautifully flooded cypress forests, but you will also see plenty of wildlife along the way.  Bring your Canoe, Kayak, o...