Gilchrist County has some of the finest freshwater springs, first-class dive locations in the world, which attracts people from all over the earth. Gilchrist County alone has more springs than any other area the same size on the planet.
Blue Springs – Diving is not permitted at this cluster known as Blue Springs, but a mask and snorkel are all that’s required for good look at the fish and swaying plant life that inhabit the 20-foot deep pool.
Fanning Springs – Snorkelers and swimmers enjoy the 20-foot deep spring basin, which is fed by two springs: Big Fanning and Little Fanning.
Ginnie Springs – The springs are very popular with families who come to swim, snorkel or tube, as well as with serious divers who choose to venture into the extensive underwater cave system. The white sandy bottom is about 18 feet below a limestone shelf. Ginnie Springs has often been called “the world’s favorite freshwater dive.” It’s no exaggeration. Over the years, thousands of divers from around the world have marveled at Ginnie Springs’ crystal-clear water and startling natural beauty. Jacques Cousteau, in fact, characterized Ginnie Spring as “visibility forever.”
Scuba Diving Rules for Ginnie Springs
• No solo diving is allowed. All Divers must have a dive buddy. The only exception to this rule is if you are a Certified Full Cave Diver.
• All Divers must register at the office, pay applicable diving fees and sign a waiver/release form (minor’s forms require the signature of a custodial, parent or legal guardian; is a custodial, parent or legal guardian will not be accompanying the minor to Ginnie Springs, the parent or guardian must have his or her signature notarized.)
• The minimum age for scuba diving is 12, regardless of supervision or certification. All minors must dive with a certified adult, regardless of whether the minor is certified.
• Divers must be able to show proof of certification from a recognized agency or be under direct instructor supervision.
• Divers must read and abide by all posted diving rules.
• Divers must follow all generally accepted safe diving practices.
• Divers may not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Absolutely No Cave Diving is permitted in Devil’s Eye or Ear except by certified Cave Divers.
• Any diver who is not a certified instructor in active teaching status with a recognized agency, who attempts to teach non-divers to scuba dive (including allowing such persons to breathe from an alternate air source or “octopus” second stage) is subject to immediate expulsion from the Property.
• Only certified cave or cavern Divers who have registered as such in the office may be in possession of underwater lights (including video lights and strobe modeling or aiming lights) anywhere in or near the Devil’s Springs system. No other Divers may take lights into the water with them at this site. If this rule applies to any member of a buddy team, it applies to all team members equally. Violators are subject to immediate expulsion from the Property.
• Ginnie Springs Outdoors reserves the right to require onsite fills.
Hart Springs – Diving is now allowed in the park’s extensive cave system. A diver must be cave certified, provide documentation of 100 dive certificates and have their DAN card. Divers in Black Lagoon must be accompanied by an approved Hart Guide. Divers in Little Hart must have a buddy system with both divers cave certified, provide documentation of 100 dive certificates and their DAN card. If you are not a diver you can enjoy snorkeling and jump off the dock making a big splash and cool off in the year round 72-degree water.
Rock Bluff Springs – These springs are one of Gilchrist County’s most beautiful hidden treasures. Although it is privately owned and accessible only by boat, it is very much worth a visit. The springs are located on the Suwannee River, just upstream of the CR 340 boat launch. To enjoy the swimming and snorkeling of this area, anchor boats in the shallows and stay in the water (the shoreline is private).
Otter Springs – Diving is not yet available, contact the park for updates. Snorkeling and swimming are readily available in the springs where you can check out the underwater environment and take a peak down into the “crack” of the springs. Also available year round, Otter Springs has a heated pool.