Central Florida Panhandle
The springs in this region range widely in size and description. In general, however, they are less developed, less frequently visited than others in the state, and offer many examples of pristine or near-pristine sites. The spring searcher in this region will find many outstanding springs. A few, including Vortex, Cypress, and Marianna/Jackson Blue, offer amenities such as food, bathrooms, and even lodging. For most springs in the Panhandle, however, the recreational visitor must do some planning, paddling, walking, and/or even some exploring to be rewarded with the site of a spring flowing in its silent and infinite business.
The springs in this section are grouped by their general proximity
to each other or in the order that a paddler would likely encounter them
on a river.
Part I Contents
Chipola River
Springs
Blue Hole Spring
An Essay on Florida Caverns State Park
Baltzell (or Bosel or Bozell) Springs group
Sandbag Spring
Unamed Grotto/Wastewater Spring
Unnamed Alcove Spring
Unnamed Chipola Riverbank Springs
Dykes Spring
Unnamed Spring Cascade
Delightful Grotto Spring and Cascade
Unnamed Rock Overhang Seep
Unnamed 2-Tree/3-Trailer Seep
Unnamed Possible Chipola Spring Runs (5)
Unnamed Chipola West Bank Seeps
Unnamed Limestone Boulders Spring
Possible Spring run Near Highway 280 Bridge
Chipola Tributary SpringsMerritt's Mill Pond Springs
Tanner Springs
Webbville Springs
Spring Lake
Springs Group
Black Spring
Double Spring
Springboard Spring
Mill Pond Spring
Gadsen (or Gadsden) Spring
Other Jackson
County Springs
South Sneads Springs Group (10)
North Jackson County/Chipola River Springs Group (6)
South Jackson County/Chipola River Springs Group (5-7)
Gadsden County
Springs
Chattahoochee Spring
Glen Julia Spring
Indian Springs
Econfina Creek
Springs
Walsingham Spring
Unnamed Econfina Creek-bed Spring
Glowing Spring
Blue Springs Group (9)
Below-Blue Spring Run
Econfina Creek Canoe Livery Springs Group
Williford Spring
Williford Run Spring
Sylvian (or Sullivan) Springs Group
Unnamed Sylvian Tributary Spring
Other Unnamed Spring Near Sylvian Springs Group
Pitt Spring
Fenced Spring 600’ above Gainer
Gainer Springs Group (4+)
Emerald Spring
McCormick Springs Group (4)
Unnamed Econfina Springs Below Emerald (4+)
An Essay on St. Joseph State Park
Holmes Creek
Springs
Other Holmes Creek Springs (approx. 26, includes Burnt Sock Landing Springs,
Burn Out Spring, Mullet Spring, and unnamed
springs)
Beckton Spring
Brunson Landing Springs
Clemmons Springs
Cypress Spring
Galloway Spring
Hightower Spring
Jack Paul Springs
Piney Woods Spring
Shellcracker Springs
Other Central
Panhandle Springs
Jackson Spring
Morrison Spring
Ponce de Leon Spring
Vortex (Blue) Spring
White Springs
An Essay on Torreya State Park
An Essay on the Apalachicola River Bluffs and Ravines
Chipola River Springs
Blue Hole Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—good at spring; outstanding in surrounding state park
How Pristine?—nicely developed swim area
Swimming—good to very good
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—fair-good at spring; excellent in surrounding park
Crowds—crowded on warm weekends
Access—excellent
Facilities—very good
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—$3.25 per car
Directions
Located in Florida Caverns State Park 2.6 miles north of Marianna.
From the center of town on U.S. 90, turn right onto Jefferson Street and
proceed to the State Park entrance. Within the park, the spring is at the
end of the paved road (about 2.5 miles) on the left and clearly sign-posted.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring lies in a varied geologic area of hills, hardwood forest,
floodplain, exposed limestone, caverns, springs, and the Chipola River,
which sinks and rises within the park’s boundaries. Perhaps partially fed
by the Chipola River, Blue Hole has two pools. The large pool has been
made into a swimming area and is 100-140 feet by about 200 feet. The spring
lies in the upstream end of the pool and is semicircular. According to
Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 178), its depth is up to 26 feet. Fallen trees
and milky blue water obscure the vent and water depth; the pool is populated
with fish and turtles.
The lower end of the pool serves as a swim area and is about 150 feet in diameter with a beach on one side, a low dive platform on the other, and an arched wooden footbridge over the run which exits to the SE. There are bathrooms and picnic and playground facilities. The upper and lower ends of the pool combine to form a rough figure 8 shape. To the NW of the spring pool, beyond the smaller footbridge, is a small pool that has no surface flow and is filled with logs and limbs. It looks like a sinkhole and is likely connected to the large pool a few feet away. A t the downstream bridge, the pool narrows to about 30 feet wide and forms a canopied run that flows into Carter's Mill Branch, which in turn flows into the Chipola about 1.2 miles SE. Trails behind the spring follow the run. Fish, otters, and snakes may be seen in the run.
Because the water in the spring is not quite clear, it may be that the flow is a combination of filtered water and water from the Chipola River, which flows underground nearby.
Use/Access
An Essay on Florida Caverns State Park
Three miles north of Marianna, Florida Caverns State
Park offers more outdoor recreational opportunities than any other place
I know of in Florida. What other spot do you know that has hiking,
biking, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking on rapids,
boating, fishing, birdwatching, golfing, spring hunting, and, of course,
spelunking?
It is the caverns that give the state park its name. Created during the Depression as a CCC project, the 1,300-acre park is honeycombed with caves large and small. This un-Florida-like geological feature is the result of Florida’s limestone base bumping the tail end of the uplift that becomes the Appalachians. And while the caves here do not match Mammoth Cave or Carlsbad Caverns, they nonetheless have an impressive array of stalagmites, stalactites, columns, flowstones, and other formations created over thousands of years by the steady drip of water.
One large cave may be visited on guided tours. The tour takes about 25 minutes, and the cavern is a constant temperature of 59 degrees. Native Americans once used the caves for shelter and storage, and their history is told in the park’s informative museum. The rest of the caves are off limits or even gated to protect fragile formations and colonies of endangered gray bats. These shy insect-eating creatures are easily disturbed, but warmly welcomed by campers for the tons of mosquitoes they eat.
Bats and insects are not the only residents in the park, which is a safe haven for alligators, deer, and beaver as well as home for a rich variety of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Some have claimed sightings of the ivory-billed woodpecker in the area, although such are not confirmed and most believe this largest of all woodpeckers is now extinct. But if the ivory-billed survived anywhere, it might be in these rich floodplains. Gigantic beech, magnolia, sweet gum, and oak trees shade the lowland areas, and the understory flowers all year long with everything from columbine, native azalea, and sage to leafcups, bottlebrush, and the lovely January-blooming atamasco lily.
The river floodplain trail is the best way to see the many faces of the area. In 30 minutes, you will go through natural tunnels, climb boulders, see virgin forest and some of the largest trees in the state, and be able to peek into several caves. The horse trails may also be hiked and loop along spring runs and through deep forest. Riders must provide their own horses.
The Chipola River bisects the park from north to south and is joined within it by two spring runs. In the middle of the park, the river dips below ground for more than 1,000 yards before reappearing. A century ago, a channel was cut across the natural bridge so logs could be floated downstream. The ditch is narrow, fast, obstructed, and not recommended for the inexperienced paddler. Fed by rainwater and springs, the Chipola can be very clear and is an easy paddle upstream or down. Alligators bask in the few sunny spots, discouraging river swimming.
Even so, there is a great spring group about a mile upstream of the boat ramp. Called Bozell, the main spring has a clear shallow run from the east and leads to a lovely spring pool that strongly invites a dip, even a skinny dip when no one is around. Three more springs line the banks just below and above Bozell, and the park is a popular pull-out for overnight and weekend canoers.
The official swimming area is yet another spring called Blue Hole. The spring forms three pools, one of which has a nice beach and dive platform. The water in the main spring is a deep, milky blue and its 68 degrees are very refreshing on a hot summer day. The Florida Caverns Golf Course is adjacent to the park and is a separate concession. Park fees are $3.25 per car, and there are additional, if reasonable, charges for cavern tours, canoe rentals, camping, horseback riding, and golfing. The cavern tours are very popular, so call ahead if you plan a weekend visit. Development is increasing around the park, but once inside you can explore the glories of natural Florida in greater variety than just about anywhere.
Personal Impressions
Having done everything but golfing and horseback riding at the park,
JF attests that it is one of the best overall recreation sites in north
Florida. Although hemmed in by development, the park has a very undeveloped
character and the river is very primitive and pristine.
Nearby Springs
Contact Information:
Florida Caverns State Park
3345 Caverns Road
Marianna, FL 32446
850-482-9598
Baltzell (or Bosel or Bozell) Springs Group
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—1st magnitude all total, each probably second magnitude
Scenery—outstanding
How Pristine?—completely unspoiled
Swimming—fair to very good, excellent snorkeling
Protection—unknown
Wildlife—abundant
Crowds—some on warm weekends
Access—moderately difficult, only by water
Facilities—none at the springs; very good in the adjoining state park
Safety—watch for alligators if with pets or small children
Scuba—yes
Cost—$3.25 per carload for river access at Fla. Cavern State Park;
canoe rental extra
Directions
Accessible via canoe put-in at Florida Caverns State Park. Located
in Florida Caverns State Park 2.6 miles north of Marianna. From the center
of town on U.S. 90, turn right onto Jefferson Street and proceed to the
State Park. Once in the park, follow signs to river put-in. The springs
are on the left and right shortly outside the park boundary about a mile
upriver.
Canoes are kept at the put-in point on a rack for trips up the Chipola and can be rented at the entrance to the park. From the boat launch, head upstream about a mile to the Bosel (or Bozell) Springs group. Bosel consists of four springs. The authors have numbered them so that the one farthest upstream is Bosel #4. Bosel #2 is the easiest to find and the others can be located in relation to it. The run to Bosel #2 is on the right side of the river, as you canoe upstream. A few minutes before you get there, you will see a couple of park boundary signs up in the trees.
All four springs share a basic description of having very clear blue water (when the Chipola is not high), sudden drop-offs after shallow sandbars or runs, and quantities of small, nibbling minnows. They are about the same size—basins of 20-30 feet in diameter—and depth—10-20 feet. Combined, the springs constitute a sizeable first-magnitude flow; Spring #2 is the largest and is a second-magnitude spring.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Descriptions
Bosel #1 is the first spring in the group coming from the put-in
at the state park downriver. It lies at the back of a run shaped like the
number "7." At a spot where the river veers to the right, the mouth of
Bosel #1’s run is straight ahead, to the left (west) of a narrow strip
of land/vegetated sandbar jutting out into the river. Follow the run, which
is 1-3 feet deep, about 100 feet to the spring. The spring drops away to
form an oval basin about 25 feet wide and 40 feet long. There is a east/west
trending fissure along the bottom in the center of the pool, about 20 feet
long and from 6-12 feet deep. The water in the pool is clear and blue.
The bottom is mostly rock and sand and is easily stirred. There are small
minnows in the water. In times of high water, this spring can be swampy.
Bosel #2—Perhaps the largest and most attractive of the four springs, #2 has the longest run and is the spring referred to as "Bosel Spring" in Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 179). Look for the clear run entering the Chipola River from the right (east) side. The shallow, transparent run is about 30 feet wide, 1-3 feet deep, and 800 feet long, ending in the main spring. The spring drops off suddenly at the end of the shallow run and forms a semicircular pool 35 feet in diameter. Water flows from a large limestone opening along a fissure about 18 feet long. An opening at about 12 feet leads straight down to a cave. Water also appears to flow from the back of the fissure, forming a prominent slick on the surface. DeLoach reports the cave is small and silty (1997, p. 129). Water in the spring is clear and very blue in the sunlight. The bottom of the spring area is sandy and rocky, with many minnows. The run is covered in aquatic vegetation.
Bosel #3—Located just upstream on the right (about 40 feet) from where Bosel #2's run joins the Chipola, is Bosel #3, surrounded by the less-clear waters of the river. It does not have a run, but opens directly into the river. The circular and cypress-lined basin is about 25 feet across and drops off from a sandbar that is covered in vegetation. Cavern walls are clearly evident. A very large sawed log (3 feet in diameter) is at the downstream edge of the spring underwater and can serve as a perch. The water is an intense clear blue and drops to a crevice about 15 feet down. The crevice is about 15 feet long and is perpendicular to the river.
Bosel #4 is upriver of Bosel #3 about 100 feet and on the opposite (left or west bank). Like #3, Bosel #4 also opens directly into the river. It is framed by a vegetated sandbar and large fallen logs, big enough to stand on and jump into the spring. On dates of visit in 1998-2001, there were two logs crossing the spring pool above the surface, and two below the surface. The spring has a strong vertical flow and boil from at least one limestone opening that appears to be 15-20 feet deep. Water flows out of the vent and over the vegetated sandbar into the adjacent Chipola River
Use/Access
Personal Impressions
Contact Information:
Florida Caverns State Park
3345 Caverns Road
Marianna, FL 32446
850-482-9598
Sandbag Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude (estimate)
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—framed into a swimming pool in a back yard
Swimming—private
Protection—surrounded by private property
Crowds—none
Access—private
Scuba—private
Directions
Accessible via canoe put-in at boat ramp along the Chipola River off
Jefferson Street about 1.5 miles north of Marianna. From the center of
town on U.S. 90, turn right onto Jefferson Street and proceed to the bridge
over the river. Put in and paddle downstream 0.4 miles to first house on
the right. The house is a wooden one on stilts over the river; look carefully
for the spring run on the downstream side. Canoe around the house through
the narrow opening—just downstream of the overhanging porch—to the spring.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
Hardened sandbags surround the spring on three sides. Water flows from
a limestone opening/fissure that is about 6 feet wide, 18 feet long, and
tapering as it goes down to a depth of 12 feet or more. When first
visited in the mid-1990s, the spring had a slide on the adjacent land that
dumped directly into the area over the fissure/vent. This slide was
gone on subsequent visits in March 2004. The spring is about the size of
a backyard pool—about 12 feet wide and 30 feet long. Except when the Chipola
River is high, the spring is clear. Small fish congregate over the vent.
The run is about 125 feet long, 8 feet wide, and shallow at normal river
levels. The river was 3-4 feet above normal height when visited in
2004, and the whole spring/pool deck area and some surrounding land were
flooded. The water was yellow-brown on this date, and the limestone
fissure was not visible..
Use/Access
The residents appeared to have built their house to discourage access
to this spring, and constructed a sort of pool around it. Presumably, the
run is a navigable waterway and therefore accessible, but at the same time
one feels very much like a trespasser paddling into the middle of someone's
"pool." No one was at home when the authors visited the spring, much
to the authors’ relief.
Personal Impressions
As resentful as JF was that the surrounding landowners had made a personal
pool out of the spring, in his secret heart of hearts he wishes he had
one, too!
Nearby Springs
Other Nearby Natural FeaturesBlue Hole Spring Merritt's Mill Pond Springs (Blue, Shangri-La, Twin Caves, Indian Washtub, Hole-in-the-Rock, Gator) Baltzell (or Bosel or Bozell) Springs group Unamed Grotto/Wastewater Spring Unnamed Alcove Spring Unnamed Chipola Riverbank Springs Dykes Spring Unnamed Spring Cascade Delightful Grotto Spring and Cascade Unnamed Rock Overhang Seep Unnamed 2-Tree/3-Trailer Seep Unnamed Possible Chipola Spring Runs (5) Unnamed Chipola West Bank Seeps Unnamed Limestone Boulders Spring Possible Spring run Near Highway 280 BridgeSpring Lake Springs (Black, Double, Gadsen [or Gadsden], Millpond, Springboard) Unnamed Chipola grotto and cave springs
Unnamed Grotto/Wastewater Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—4th magnitude, est.
Scenery—Poor
How Pristine?—Adjacent to industrial area and outflow water pipe, near
highway, littered, foul-smelling
Swimming—No
Protection—Unknown
Crowds—None
Access—Very good, by boat only
Facilities—None
Safety—Fair
Scuba—No
Cost—Free
Directions
Accessible via boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S. 90,
go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about two miles. The spring is 600
feet south of the point where U.S. 90 crosses the Chipola River, on the
west side. Look for a cascade of wastewater about 125 feet west of
the river. GPS coordinates: N30.46.24; W85.12.958
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
Water flows from a couple of openings at the base of a limestone wall/bluff
(about 8 feet high). The small flows combine to form a tiny creek
that runs about 125 feet to the Chipola River. The water from the
spring was clear. Water from the spring is joined with water from
an outflow pipe 40 feet to the south. This outflow (perhaps 15 gallons
per second?) was bright green on dates of visit (March 2004) and smelled
like sewage. Water cascaded from the outflow down the sloping land
toward the river.
Land rises perhaps another 10 feet to the west of the spring and outflow pipe to an active industrial area. Garbage, broken glass, weeds, and muck surround the spring and outflow pipe. Note: on the second visit in late March 2004, there was no flow from the spring at the base of the limestone bluff. There had been no appreciable rain in the intervening weeks.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Alcove Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—3th magnitude, est.
Scenery—Good-very good
How Pristine?—Near railroad bridge, otherwise natural
Swimming—No
Protection—Unknown
Crowds—None
Access—Very good, by boat only
Facilities—None
Safety—Very good
Scuba—No
Cost—Free
Directions
Accessible via boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S. 90,
go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 3 miles. The spring is 300
feet south of the point where the railroad bridge crosses the Chipola River,
on the west side. GPS coordinates: N30.45.631; W85.13.027.
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring consists of several flowpoint that form a small alcove on
the west bank of the Chipola River. The alcove is semicircular and
about 20 feet in diameter. The main flow is from a limestone opening
in the bottom of the alcove on the south side. The vent is about
1 foot in diameter, four feet deep, created a pool within the alcove, and
had a visible boil. There appears to be a smaller flowpoint 1-2 feet
from the main vent and nearer to the bank. Water flowed from the
base on north side of the bank/alcove in 3-4 seeps. The water from
the spring was clear--noticeably clearer than the adjacent river water.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Chipola Riverbank Springs
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 3.25-3.5 miles. Look
for flowpoints at the base of limestone banks and boulders at the water's
edge at the following coordinates:
Spring A: N30.45.583; W85.15.046
Possible Spring B: N30.45.583; W85.13.064
Spring C: N30.45.583; W.85.13.082
Possible Spring D: N30.45.285; W85.12.744
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
There are several similar small springs on the west bank of the Chipola
River in an area stretching from shortly after the Unnamed Alcove Spring
to Alamo Cave. The springs are similar in composition—small flows
from openings in or between limestone rocks and boulders at the river's
edge and forming the base of the riverbank. Springflow was seen and
confirmed at Springs A & C, and is suspected but not confirmed from
flowpoints B and D. The area has a lot of exposed limestone on the
west bank, which rises up to 30 feet above the river. Flow from these
springs is clear, and the flow points are inundated when the river is high.
Just below these confirmed and possible springs is Alamo Cavern, which
is at the river's edge and which has a series of passages include a main
passagway that can be entered at a distance of more than 200 feet to the
west.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of any of these small springs, which are all
in a pristine condition.
Nearby Springs
Dykes Spring
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 6 miles. The mouth of the clear-water
spring run is easy to spot on the east side of the river. Ascend
run 75 yards to springhead. GPS coordinates: N30.44.764; W85.12.908
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
Dykes Spring forms a roughly circular pool that was about 80 feet in
diameter on date of visit in March 2004. Water flows from a large
limestone fissure that is about 8 feet wide and 40-50 feet long.
There is a large (6-8 feet in diameter) boil on the surface at the back
end of the fissure, which was also wider than the rest of the fissure and
rounded. The depth of the fissure was not measured but appeared to
be at least 20 feet. Several types of fish were observed in the pool,
ranging in size from less than an inch to 15 inches long. Water in
the pool was clear and pale/milky blue. The bottom was mostly sandy
except at the edges of the limestone fissure, and there were algae on the
bottom and on the submerged trees. Movement in the spring pool raised
clouds of silt.
There is a backwater swamp/wetland area behind the spring; it flows into the top of the spring basin in times of high water. The spring creates a serpentine run that is 20-30 feet wide and 75 yards long. The depth in the run was 5-6 feet on date of visit in early March 2004, but only about 3 feet 3 weeks later (there had been no measureable rain in the interim). There is heavy algae growth in the spring, in vivid green mats and strings/filaments. The clear water of the spring and its run present a contrast to the darker water in the river. Banks rose up from the spring from 3-10 feet in an area of hardwood bottomland forest. Dried algae on the banks extending 3-5 feet above the spring suggested that the water had recently been much higher.
Use/Access
A sign at the spring says camping is not allowed. There is a
rope swing at the pool. A dirt road looped by the spring from the
east.
Personal Impressions
Unnamed Spring Cascade
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 6.5 miles. The spring is on
the west bank between two homes--one of which had Confederate battle flag
hanging over the river. Look and listen for a small cascade as the
spring run empties into the river. This spring is only about 100
feet upstream of another spring that cascades into the river from the east
side of the river. GPS coordinates of mouth of spring run on the
wast bank of the Chipola River: N30.44.708; W85.12.903.
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring is on private property and was not visited. It appeared
to be at least 100 feet from the river up a bank that was more than 20
feet high. Water tumbles down this bank between two houses and into
the river. The flow creates a small creek and was perhaps 2 gallons
per second.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of the spring.
Nearby Springs
Delightful Grotto Spring and Cascade
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 6.5 miles. The spring is on
the east bank, across the river from several homes. Look and listen
for a small cascade as the spring run empties into the river. Another
cue for finding the spring is to look for a modern house (just a few hundred
feet upstream on the east bank of the spring) that also has a spring cascade
that tumbles down the hillside/bank into the river. GPS coordinates
of mouth of spring run on the east bank of the chipola River: N30.44.607;
W85.12.601. GPS coordinates of two main flow points: #1 (main)--N.30.44.640;
W85.12.582, #2--N30.44.640; W85.12.600.
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The primary spring flow is from the base of a limestone bluff set about
200 feet from the river. Water tumbles very audibly out at the estimated
rate of 3-5 gallons per second. Water can be seen moving toward the
flow point through a hole in the limestone bluff a few feet above the primary
flow point. Lesser flows were observed a few feet to the north, and
there is a smaller, secondary spring run about 35 feet southwest of the
main vent. The flows combine to form a shallow (2 inches deep and
3-5 feet wide) run that goes over bare limestone, pebbles, and sand down
to the river. The run tumbles/cascades into the river down the bank,
(which was two-three feet above the river surface on date of visit in March
2004). The water was clear and had no odor.
In the upper part of the creek run, there were several round indentations (about 1” deep and 8” across) in the limestone bottom. Some of the exposed limestone in the run was a very attractive light green. Closer inspection reveals the presence of algae on this limestone, but it initially looked more like green rock than rock with algae on it.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of the spring, which is in a pristine condition
except for the algae. JF was startled by a snake that rustled out
of his path along the spring run.
Personal Impressions
The bluff, spring, run, and cascade altogether are very attractive
and appealing.
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Rock Overhang Seep
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 6.5 miles. The spring is on
the east bank, just below the two spring runs that cascade/tumble into
the river. Look for a limestone shelf that overhangs the river; the
spring is 10 feet behind it. GPS coordinates: N30.44.503; W85.12.609.
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring is set in a small depression (about 8 feet in diameter and
3 feet deep) that lies just behind exposed limestone on the east bank of
the Chipola River. Water trickles of seep from the base of this depression
on the east side. When the flow is sufficient, it travels out of
the depression and into the river at the base of an overhanging limeston
ledge (the ledge is 4-5 feet across). Flow was visible in the depression
on both dates of visit in March 2004, but it was only observed flowing
directly into the river on the early March date, after a period of normal
rainfall. When the weather is drier, the flow seeps back into the
ground in the depression.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of the spring, which is in a pristine condition.
Nearby Springs
Unnamed 2-Tree/3-Trailer Seep
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 6.75 miles. The spring is on
the east bank, a little below the two spring runs that cascade/tumble into
the river. The spring is at the base/roots of two large trees and
directly across from the middle of three mobile home that are on the opposite
(west) bank. GPS coordinates: N30.44.503; W85.12.701.
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The seep is at the edge of the river below two large trees. On
date of visit, water trickled out of the bank at the river's edge over
a small patch (about 1 foot in diameter) of whitish limestone and directly
into the river.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of the spring, which is in a pristine condition.
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Possible Chipola Spring Runs (5)
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream about 7 miles. Look for openings
in the west bank of the Chipola River over the course of about 1/2 mile
at the following GPS coordinates:
#1--N30.44.427; W85.12.778
#2--N30.44.353; W85.12.822
#3--N30.44.353; W85.12.840
#4--N30.44.383; W85.12.822
#5--N30.44.383; W85.12.804
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The authors passed and/or partially explored several sites where water
was flowing into the river from creeks on the west side. None had
a large flow, but all were flowing in early March 2004. When revisited
in late March 2004, one run was dry and two others only had a tricke of
flow. Some were explored up to 400 feet, but no spring vents were
seen and so the authors do not know the source of the flows. It appears
that the flow regulary dry up before reaching the river or perhaps do not
flow at all at some times, so the flow may or may not be from springs.
Some details follow.
#1 A small opening in the west bank--perhaps 18" wide--with only a trickle of water. This run wound westward from the river and was not explored. There is a large cypress stump at the opening in the riverbank, and there was a sandbar jutting about 10 feet into the river.
#2 Another small opening in the west bank, which was dry on date of visit in late March 2004.
#3 This run/creek enters the Chipola from the west side, carving an opening in the 6-foot bank. At its mouth, the run was 2-3 feet wide and a couple of inches deep and was clear and odorless in early March 2004. The flow was reduced to a trickle 3 weeks later. The authors walked up the run a distance of about 100 feet to where the run exited from a thicket, and decided not to follow it any further.
#4 This run/creek also enters the Chipola from the west side, creating a run that is about 2 feet side and 3 inches deep. The run widens near the river, and was about 4 feet wide and 1 foot deep at its mouth in early March 2004, and about half those dimensions 3 weeks later. JF walked up/alongside the run for a distance of about 400 feet, to a point where it passes beneath an old, small, collapsed railroad trestle. Just above the trestle is a small beaver dam, and the run continued on up out of sight. Water was somewhat backed up by the lodge, and the run widened and deepened due to the backup caused by the dam. The flow point was not found. The land adjacent to/downriver from this run to the south was cleared for several acres and had a picnic shelter/house/cook shack on it with a no trespass sign.
#5 This run/creek mouth was a few minutes’ paddle below #4 and also on the west bank. The mouth of the run was about 10 feet wide, and the run was wide and deep enough to ascend it in a canoe for a distance of about 300 feet in early March 2004, and only about half that far 3 weeks later. As with run #4, the authors could not go beyond a railroad trestle or determine how far back the spring originated. This site had no sign of development other than the decaying railroad line. This creek/run was not photographed.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of any of these creeks/runs. The old
railroad line is in a very decayed and decrepit condition—the ties and
trestle were completely collapsed, leaving only the rails spanning the
gap (about 10 feet) over run #4. Nearby, the authors saw a well-fed
alligator basking on the east bank. The ‘gator was about 5 feet long,
and allowed the authors’ to approach to within about 50 feet before retreating
into the river.
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Chipola West Bank Seeps (2)
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—1 gallon per minute, est.
Scenery—Very good
How Pristine?—Undisturbed
Swimming—No
Protection—Unknown
Crowds—None
Access—Very good, by boat only
Facilities—None
Safety—Very good
Scuba—No
Cost—Free
Directions
Accessible via small boat. From the center of Marianna on U.S.
90, go north on Jefferson Street (State Road 167—the same turn as for Florida
Cavern State Park) and proceed about 1.5 miles to the bridge over the Chipola
River. Put in and go downstream 7.5-8 miles. Look for erosions
in the west bank of the Chipola River at the following GPS coordinates:
#1--N30.43.930; W85.12.716
#2--N30.44.923; W85.12.669
For maps, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The two seeps are similar in size, flow, and appearance. Each
flows from the base of an eroded slice in the west bank of the Chipola
River. The banks at these two points were 5-8 feet high on dates
of visit in March 2004. Each is a seep or perhaps the beginning of
a steephead and is eroding through sand and clay. Further descriptions
follow.
#1 The smaller of the two eroded areas, the bank at this seep was about 5 feet high. The eroded area was widest at the edge of the river, and narrowed as it went back perhaps 6 feet. Water tricked from the base of the erosion and into the river. A lot of gray clay was at the surface on the south side of the steep/eroded area. The area behind this flowpoint was forested.
#5 The larger of the two seeps/steeps/eroded areas, this one flowed from the base of an alcove/grotto on the west bank of the river. The grotto is about 8 feet high, and appeared to be of more recent origin than other springs, or to have recently been enlarged due to erosion/collapse of the dirt above it. Water flowed about 10 feet from the base of the grotto to the river. Land was partially cleared behind this spring.
Use/Access
No apparent use.
Nearby Springs
Unnamed Limestone Boulders Spring
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via boat. From Intersection of Interstate 10 and State
Road 71, go south about ½ mile and turn right/west onto State Road
280 (look for sign for boat launch). Drive about 1 mile to boat launch
on SW side of the road/bridge. Put in and go upstream about 0.3 miles.
The spring enters the river on the east side, adjacent to several large
flat boulders in the river near the mouth of the short spring run.
GPS coordinates: N30.43.287; W85.11.904
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring flows from various points, depending on levels of rain and
the Chipola River. The primary flow point is from the bottom of a
depression/collapse located about 60 feet east of the river. This
pit, which is criss-crossed with tree roots, has the approximate dimensions
of 12 feet across and 6 feet deep (the water in the hole/pit is 1-2 feet
deep). Water flows from the bottom through several small opening
or sand boils. The water is clear and odorless, and there were minnows
in the depression/pit. Water from these opening flows/seeps back
under ground and reappears or flows outward again at other openings 15-35
feet away/to the west. In early March 2004, water was visible flowing
either (i.e., springflow) or downward (i.e., beneath the surface) at three
other points, including two smaller holes depresions. In early March,
this second flow point was 20 feet away in a much smaller pit (just a few
feet across and about two feet deep). This flow did not escape the
small depression, but was recaptured and flowed underground again and reappeared
at 2-3 other small flow points about 15 feet away. The 3rd set of
vents create slight flows and raised sand boils and form a short run (15
feet long, 5 feet wide, and about 8 inches deep--) that opens directly
into the Chipola River. The spring water is clear and odorless.
When visited again under somewhat drier conditions, the secondary flowpoints
were dry, and all the water from the main depression appeared to be flowing
from one spot about 35 feet to the west and 20 feet from the river.
This flow was from a limestone opening under a rock and created a small
creek that flowed into the river amid a series of boulders that line the
eastern bank.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of this spring, which is very near I-10 and
has a small line of trees separating it from upland farm fields.
Personal Impressions
A beautiful little spring complex, this site is well worth a visit
and the short upriver paddle against the moderately strong current of the
Chipola River. JF and RB nearly lost their canoe at this spot.
They did not tie the canoe, and just happened to look back to see it starting
to float downriver. JF had to race through the tangle of brush to
a small rocky promontory 50 feet downriver and leap into the water after
it!
Nearby Springs
Possible Spring Run Near Highway 280 Bridge
Jackson County
Directions
Accessible via boat. From Intersection of Interstate 10 and State
Road 71, go south about ½ mile and turn right/west onto State Road
280 (look for sign for boat launch). Drive about 1 mile to boat launch
on SW side of the road/bridge. Put in and go upstream about 300 feet
and look for the mouth of the run on the east side. GPS coordinates:
N30.43.301; W85.11.897
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Description
This spring run or creek empties into the Chipola River from the east
side. JF walked up the run a distance of approximately 500 feet but
did not reach a springhead. The creek/run is 2-3 feet wide and 1-2"
deep and flows through a floodplain area. The water was noticeably
warmer than the Chipola River on date of visit in March 2004. (Note:
the temperature of water from springs near this location on the same date
was cooler than the river water, but the head of this spring may be some
distance from river if it is from a spring at all.) Minnow were observed
in the creek/run.
Use/Access
There is no apparent use of this creek/run, which flows through a low
and muddy area..
Personal Impressions
Run may or may not be from a spring, and JF could not determine how
far back the run went.
Nearby Springs
Chipola Tributary Springs
Tanner Springs
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—3rd magnitude, estimated
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—surrounded by farmland, runoff into springhead, algae
around some flowpoints, otherwise pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—on private land
Facilities—none
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, go north on State Road 73 for approximately
4.7 miles. If coming from the north, proceed 1.4 miles south from
Union Road. Turn east onto dirt/farm road. Follow around 90-degree
turn to the left/north (field will be on right and look for tall pecan
trees lining road along a 90-degree turn to the right. The spring
is below, on the right, along this second sweeping turn.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
Tanner is a series of flow points consisting of at least 4 areas, corresponding
to the rough map. The entire spring area is probably 1-2 acres in
size with numerous flowpoints and seeps from beneath trees, directly through
limestone openings/rocks, and within the spring run. The runs are
mostly sandy/muddy near the springs, and grassy and overgrown once they
converge downstream. The water in all the springs is clear and odorless.
Spring Area #1 appears to have the greatest volume of flow; water exits through several opening in large limestone boulders set into the base of a bank 25 feet below the road. The flow is audible as it exits out of and over the rocks. Water forms a shallow pool area and creek in an area of exposed limestone, cypress, birch, and sweetgum trees. When visited in spring 2003, the bank above this spring was lush with lilies.
Spring Area #2 is about 150 feet to the NNE. Water flows from the base of a 15' bank in a swampy/muddy area, going south, and joining the flow from Spring Area #1. Runoff enters the springhead area from the road above and the weedy/scrubby land beyond the road.
Spring Area #3 is approximately 200-250 feet to the east of Area #2. Water flows from limestone openings at the base of/under the roots of a large hardwood tree growing along the 15' bank. It probably has the second greatest flow after Spring Area #1 and flows south about 150 feet where it is joined by the smaller fun from Spring Area #4.
Spring Area #4, unlike the other springs, consists of seeps, boils, and small flows that are in the bottomland area and not from the base of the bank/bluff. This spring area clearly has a different springshed, as its flow areas are heavily covered in algae and there is much more plant growth in its pool and short run. This suggestst has higher levels of nitrate, phosphorus, and/or other organic or inorganic elements.
The combined runs of Areas 1-2 join those of 3-4 at some point where below 3-4 meet, and the spring run appears to head SE. It forms the head of the south fork of Baker Creek, which subsequently flows into the Chipola River.
Use/Access
There appears to be no utilization of the springs. The land above
the springs is cultivated. Blue and red blazes mark many of the trees
around the spring area, suggesting it is a boundary between two landowners.
The runoff directly into the spring area, the algae blooms around
Spring Area #4, and the cultivation of land immediately adjacent to the
springs are concerns.
Personal Impressions
Tanner is a beautiful spring group, and Spring Area #1 is exceptional
in its setting of huge boulders.
Nearby Springs
Webbville Springs
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—3rd magnitude, est.
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—adjacent to tree farm, ditch/runoff into springhead,
otherwise very pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—on private land
Facilities—none
Safety—unknown
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, go north on State Highway 73 for approximately
6.1 miles. Turn right onto dirt/clay road. Continue approximately
300 feet until road makes 90-degree turn to left. Look for dirt/grass
road on right across fence at edge of pine tree farm. Walk on dirt
road about 0.3 mile to springheads A-C on right adjacent to the road.
Flow area A is at coordinates 30.50.358N/85.20.080W, and flow area E is
in the woods/swampy area at 30.50.361N/85.20.050W.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The main spring flows are at the base of a 10-12 foot bank below the
dirt road. Water issues from several points in five primary areas
corresponding to the rough map. The three main flows (A-C) are within
150 feet of each other. Each is a series of seeps or small flows
of clear and odorless water. The three primary flows join within
150 feet and form a creek that is approximately 3-6 inches deep and 4-6
feet wide. The bottom of the creek is sandy, and the spring run flows
through an area of dense floodplain forest. A small amount of algae
was growing in spots, and minnows, frogs, and snails were seen in the run.
There are ferns along the banks, and deer tracks and other animal signs
were visible. The run is joined by the combined output of at least
two additional flows (D and E) from the NE. These two flow points
are smaller and in an area that is at the edge of forest and swamp to the
east of flowpoints A-C. The total combined flow is estimated to be
third magnitude. The run forms the north fork of Baker Creek, which
subsequently flows into the Chipola River. There may be additional
flows that the authors did not locate. A ditch empties into springhead
B, and there was some trash around the springs--bottles, cans, bits of
fencing and metal.
Use/Access
No public access. The dirt/grass road is fenced off.
Nearby Springs
Merritt's Mill Pond Springs Group
Jackson (or Marianna) Blue Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—1st magnitude
Scenery—very good to fine
How Pristine?—bordered and developed into swimming/recreation area,
heavy concentrations of nitrate in water
Swimming—outstanding
Protection—very good
Wildlife—fair to good, populations declining/disappearing
Crowds—crowded on warm weekends
Access—excellent, but only Memorial Day to Labor Day
Facilities—fine
Safety—excellent
Scuba—yes, with special permission and for an additional fee
Cost—$1.50 for entrance and swimming, more to rent canoes
Directions
From Highway 90 in Marianna, go north on State Road 71. A Wal-Mart
is on the corner at right. (Note that the southern part of 71 that leads
to I-10 is down the road to the west.) After about a mile, past the farm
equipment building, Blue Spring Road forks off to the right. Go about 3
miles and you will see the sign to Blue Spring Park on the right.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The circular spring basin lies in a depression and is approximately
250 feet in diameter. Water issues from a large (8 feet high by 30
feet wide) and accessible cave opening. There is an underwater cavern
at the spring that extends several thousand feet. The water forms
the 4.4-mile-long Merritt's Mill Pond and is dotted by several springs
(see below). The southern end of the pond is dammed up at U.S. 90
and can be seen while driving through Marianna. A fence divides the spring
area from the pond and prevents boat access into the spring basin.
The water is very clear and deep blue over the cave entrance, which is
directly beneath the dive platform and diving board about 15 feet deep.
Much of the bottom in the spring pool is sandy, but there are also areas
of elodea/hydrilla intrusion in the center of the pool and near the fence
that separates the pool from the "Pond." Swimming and diving in the
spring can cloud the water.
The beach area above the spring is sandy, but does not extend down to the water and has a wooden barrier (railroad ties) to help keep sand from eroding into the spring basin.
Land in the spring's watershed, which extends into Alabama, is about 50/50 agriculture and forest. Water tests indicate that Jackson Blue Spring has the second highest concentration of nitrates in its water of any first magnitude spring in Florida--3 mg/liter. Tests indicate that half the nitrate is absorbed or sinks to the bottom in the 4-mile pond. In addition, the spring areas has the most strongly inorganic isotype ration of any measured spring. On more recent visits, (2000-2003), the water more more geenish than blue, and there were higher concentrations of algae on the bottom. It is estimated that water flowing out of the main vent has flowed underground for approximately 17 years, meaning that efforts to reduce nitrate intrusions in the springshead will not have any impact for 17 years.
The spring is one of the few sites that is home to the Georgia blind salamander; Shangri-La Spring (100 yards downstream is another.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
An Essay on Marianna Blue Spring
Note: this essay was written when the spring
still had its dive tower.
Where is the best place to swim in the Big Bend? Grayton? Destin? Wakulla Springs? St. Andrews? St. George? Nope. For me, none of these places compares to Blue Springs Park in Marianna. Located an hour north of Panama City and 75 minutes west of Tallahassee, Marianna Blue Springs has it all, plus non-stop country music as an added bonus.
The springs have been a swimmin' hole for generations of Jackson Countians. Originally, the spring flows formed a narrow run that joined the Chipola River just below where U.S. 90 now runs through Marianna. Years ago, the run was dammed, creating Merritt’s Mill Pond which is 4.4 miles long and about 200 yards across. The pond is popular with anglers, and there are fish camps and a campground on the west bank.
But it is the swimming that places the spring a cut above. A large circular pool 150 feet across lies in a natural depression and forms the headwaters. A rock and sandbag retaining wall frames the pool and prevents erosion. The water averages a few feet deep and is absolutely transparent. Its source is a first-magnitude spring that flows powerfully from a large-mouth cave directly under the diving platform. Water over the cave is a very deep and enticing blue.
Scuba is not allowed without special permission, but determined snorkelers can explore the cave entrance and glimpse a cold, dark, underwater world. Getting into the cave takes a bit of effort. One must fight the strong outflow from the cave, be able to hold a breath for a minute or so, and time the dive so as not to be squashed by cannonballers from the platform above. A minivan could easily drive into the cave entrance, which is populated by large fish that scurry into the cave recesses when approached.
Watching from the platform, I marveled at a boy who spent three minutes in the cave. Coming up, he explained there was an air pocket stocked by skin-divers with air-filled milk jugs. Sticking one's head into the bucket-sized pocket of stale air is much more unnerving than the cave itself. Light and sound are distorted in the small space, and you get less air with each breath.
The swim area has free tubes, large and small slides, and a floating island in the middle. As is typical for a north Florida spring, the water temperature is about 68 degrees, and many who swim out to the floating island are loath to return to the water after warming up.
A concession stand offers snacks and ping-pong balls to use on two nearby crumbling tables. There is a volleyball area, and picnic tables and grills provide platforms for fun, food, and generally hanging out all day long. The structures on the site have been there at least 30 years, and the whole place has a very old-timey feel about it. The park is ideal for kids of all ages, from toddlers who splash in the shallows to elementary schoolers searching for crawdads and daring each other to jump from the platform to teens scoping each other out and trying to make the biggest splash.
A fence keeps boats out of the swim area, and if you have a canoe you can explore the pond. Four other springs lie within a five-minute paddle of the main spring. The nearest is the best. Aptly named Shangri-La, it is a strikingly beautiful spring that issues from a shallow crevice at the base of a 30-foot limestone bluff. The peaceful translucent flow soothes every sense, and a trail to the bluff above offers a panoramic view.
A little further down are Indian Washtub and Twin Cave
springs. The latter lies among a scenic watery grove of cypress. The park
costs just $1.50 per person, but it is only open from Memorial Day to Labor
Day. Our summer is not complete without a visit every year; unwinding
at this simple and lovely spring has become an annual family pilgrimage.
Shangri-La Springs (2)
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—3rd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—remnants of old dock and building materials near orifice
Swimming—good
Protection—unknown
Wildlife—fair to good
Crowds—small
Access—good (boat only)
Facilities—fine at Blue Springs 200 yards away
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—$1.50 per person
Quick Directions
From Highway 90 in Marianna, go north on State Road 71. A Wal-Mart
is on the corner. (Note that the southern part of 71 that leads to I-10
is down the road to the west.) After about a mile, right past the green
John Deere sign, Blue Spring Road forks off to the right. Go about 3 miles
and you will see the sign to Blue Spring County Park. There is a put-in
spot at Blue Springs to go downriver to Shangri-La. The spring may
also be reached by paddling approximately 2 miles upstream from the public
boat ramp at Hunter Fish Camp Road. (From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn
north on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to Blue Springs Road. Turn right at
the big John Deer sign onto Blue Springs Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter
Fish Camp Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile down this house-lined road to
the boat ramp on the left, downhill from the road.)
Detailed Directions
To reach Shangri-La Spring from Blue, canoe downstream from the put-in
at Blue Spring and stay on the right about 200 yards and you will see a
lone cypress near the right shore. Look right for a lot of metal posts
sticking out of the water, the remains of a dock. A fern-covered rock,
about the size of a car, sits ten feet offshore. A smaller boulder is just
downstream. Onshore is a limestone bluff with a small overhang near
the shore. The little overhang, about two feet high, is used for camping
and can be messy. To the right of the overhang, in the water and under
the bluff, is the main spring. If you approach the main spring from the
right side of the large boulder, you should pass over the second spring,
which is in the pond about 45 feet from the limestone bluff and the main
spring.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The main spring is a beautiful little cave—only five feet deep—at the
base of the limestone bluff, and just large enough to squeeze into. The
water is exceptionally clear and there is a steady and gentle flow from
the vent. Due to its shallowness, the water is paler blue than at Blue
Spring upriver. DeLoach reports the small opening widens to a cavern of
15x20 feet with depths of 25 feet to a silty bottom (1997, p. 128). Another
diver told JF that the cave extends about 200 feet but is quite narrow.
Metal poles—the remnants of an old dock—lead from the land to the large
boulder in the water and over near the main spring at the base of the bluff.
There are also pieces of concrete block in the water.
The second spring nearby is a 35-foot long fissure that emanates water from about 20 down. During times of heavy hydrilla and algae infestation, the second spring is very silty and can be hard to spot. Fish linger at the bottom of both springs. When clear, the fissure is easy to spot and points toward the boulder next to the main Shangri-La Spring. The bottom near the bluff is littered with large rocks and old building materials to stand on.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Indian Washtub Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—very; an old dock nearby
Swimming—poor
Protection—unknown
Wildlife—good
Crowds—none
Access—easy, boat only
Facilities—none at spring; excellent at nearby Marianna Blue Springs
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—$1.50 per person
Directions
From Highway 90 in Marianna, go north on State Road 71. A Wal-Mart
is on the corner. (Note that the southern part of 71 that leads to I-10
is down the road to the west.) After about a mile, right past the green
John Deere sign, Blue Spring Road forks off to the right. Go about 3 miles
and you will see the sign to Blue Spring County Park. There is a put-in
spot at Blue Springs to go downriver to Indian Washtub. The spring is 200
yards downstream from, and on the same side of the pond as, Shangri-La.
The spring is about 35 feet before a rickety dock that extends from some
old concrete steps that lead up the hill. The spring may also be
reached by paddling approximately 2 miles upstream from the public boat
ramp at Hunter Fish Camp Road. (From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn north
on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to Blue Springs Road. Turn right at the big
John Deer sign onto Blue Springs Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter Fish Camp
Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile down this house-lined road to the boat
ramp on the left, downhill from the road.)
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The site is not a spring but rather what is termed a ponor--basically
a sinkhole that occurs in an area that is already under water. A large
crevice is clearly visible about 20 feet offshore beneath a large limestone
ledge at a depth of about 20 feet. The basin is attractive. A log
lies across one end of the gash in the rock. The nearby shore canopy blocks
light and reduces visibility, giving the site a slight hazy appearance.
A diver explained to JF that the boulders at this site had collapsed into
the vent, blocking most of the flow (in either direction) and preventing
cave diving.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Twin Caves Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—3rd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—very unspoiled
Swimming—fair
Protection—good
Wildlife—good
Crowds—none
Access—easy, boat only
Facilities—none at spring; excellent at nearby Marianna Blue Springs
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—$1.50 per person
Directions
From Highway 90 in Marianna, go north on State Road 71. A Wal-Mart
is on the corner. (Note that the southern part of SR71 that leads to I-10
is down the road to the west.) After about a mile, right past the green
John Deere sign, Blue Spring Road forks off to the right. Go about 3 miles
and you will see the sign to Blue Spring County Park. There is a put-in
spot at Blue Springs to go downriver to Twin Caves. The spring is perpendicular
from Indian Washtub. Paddling directly across the pond from Indian Washtub
about 2/3 across and in an area of large cypresses, one should find the
spring. The spring may also be reached by paddling approximately
1.75 miles upstream from the public boat ramp at Hunter Fish Camp Road.
(From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn north on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to
Blue Springs Road. Turn right at the big John Deer sign onto Blue Springs
Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter Fish Camp Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile
down this house-lined road to the boat ramp on the left, downhill from
the road.)
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
Twin Caves is a circular spring in Merritt’s Mill Pond. It is a large
(about 25 feet) opening in the limestone bottom and is beneath the ledge
at a depth of about 16 feet. A large log lies across the openings. Water
flows from two holes below the log, and the bottom is very silty.
No flow is evident at the surface. DeLoach describes that the two
openings, which are 20 feet apart, "connect with a room at 30 feet" (1997,
p. 128). A diver told JF that the passages at Twin Caves, which he
called "Twin Spring," have been explored to a distance of nearly a mile.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Hole-in-the-Rock Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—uknown
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—completely pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Crowds—small-none
Access—very good, boat only
Facilities—dive platform nearby
Safety—good
Scuba—yes, lights needed
Cost—free
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn north on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to
Blue Springs Road. Turn right at the big John Deer sign onto Blue Springs
Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter Fish Camp Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile
down this house-lined road to the boat ramp on the left, downhill from
the road. Put in at boat ramp and paddle through cypress trees directly
into and then upstream in the millpond for about a mile. Look to
the right/east for two small poles holding wire mesh sticking out of the
water, and toward the shore for the small dive platform. There is
a reflector on the tree above the dive platform. The spring is about
10 feet from the shore to the left of the dive platform.
The spring may also be reached by paddling approximately 0.75 miles upstream from the public boat ramp at Hunter Fish Camp Road. (From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn north on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to Blue Springs Road. Turn right at the big John Deer sign onto Blue Springs Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter Fish Camp Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile down this house-lined road to the boat ramp on the left, downhill from the road.)
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The spring flows from an opening in the limestone bottom. The
surface is covered in duckweed, the areas is completely canopied, and the
water is greenish, so visibility is poor. The ledge appears to be
about 6 feet beneath the surface, and JF was unable to determine how large
it was. There is no boil on the surface. Land rises sharply
above the water to form a bluff up to 60 feet high. Almost directly
above the spring is a natural cavity in the limestone that appears to have
been extended by human use. The small cave is about 6 feet wide,
three-four feet high, and extends back about 20 feet. The spring
is named for this "hole in the rock."
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Gator Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—uknown
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—completely pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Wildlife—very good
Crowds—some use on warm weekends
Access—very good, boat only
Facilities—none
Safety—fair
Scuba—yes, lights needed
Cost—free
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, turn north on 71 at the Wal-Mart and go to
Blue Springs Road. Turn right at the big John Deer sign onto Blue Springs
Rd. and go 1.6 miles to Hunter Fish Camp Road. Turn right and go 2/3 mile
down this house-lined road to the boat ramp on the left, downhill from
the road. Put in at boat ramp and paddle through cypress trees directly
into and then across the Mill Pond to the SE bank, about 150 yards.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
This spring is an exposed limestone outcrop at the base of the 30+-foot
bank set into the bluff. The opening is an upside-down v-shaped cleft that
is about 4 feet wide at the bottom and narrows to a point at the top. The
opening extends beneath the surface to the bottom, which is about five
feet deep. Ferns grow on of the rock around the cave. The surface near
the cave was almost completely covered in duckweed, and some eel grass
was also present. No water was visible flowing out of the cave, but the
duckweed does not extend into the cave, suggesting it is pushed out by
the flow. A diver told JF that one can travel--swimming with side-mounted
tanks and lights--about 250 feet into the cave. There is a smaller
cleft a few feet to the left of the main opening, and the bottom was 5-6
feet deep on dates of visit in 2001.
Use/Access
Nearby Springs
Spring Lake Spring Group
Located in southwestern Jackson County, Spring Lake is not a lake at all, but is rather the spring run that has Mill Pond Spring at its head and Springboard, Double, Black, and Gadsen (or Gadsden) Springs along the first two miles of its run and contributing to it. After several miles, the "lake" is renamed Dry Creek, is fed by additional creeks, and flows into the Chipola River after an estimated 13 miles.
The only public boat ramp for Spring Lake is near Black Spring; all the other springs can be reached from this ramp by passing through the Black Spring basin and into the Spring Lake run. There are several houses along the run, including houses adjacent to Springboard and Mill Pond Springs. No landfall may be made at these sites, and signs near Mill Pond Spring say that the water is also private property. Except for the few houses, the spring run is in a natural state and is very attractive.
On the day the authors visited—a time of historic drought (Feb. 2001), the "lake" was only three or four inches deep in most places and had many sandbars. The authors were frequently forced to dig their paddles into the sand to propel the canoe. In other places, the water was a 1-2 feet deep. The bottom is sandy and soft—one can sink as much as a foot into it and have a shoe sucked off. Access is easier in times of higher water levels.
Double Springs is actually a karst window, or what was previously termed a spring-sink combination. The "window" is not fully enclosed, however, and water from the spring also flows into Spring Lake. The authors saw three people while on the "Lake," and none of them was friendly.
After visiting the area, JF was told by a diver that there is another small and attractive spring called Casket Spring that is between Springboard and Mill Pond Spring in the NW corner of the "lake." Another visit will be required to locate, photograph, and describe this spring, which was described as being coffin-shaped.
Overall, the Spring Lake run and springs are very interesting and
appealing. It is a great pity that this area did not get into state
hands many years ago before the houses were built around most of the springs.
It comes cloe to rivaling the Ichetucknee River for natural beauty, springs,
and recreational potential.
Black Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—very pristine
Swimming—poor-fair
Protection—unknown
Crowds—boat traffic on warm weekends
Access—good, boat only
Facilities—none
Safety—unknown
Scuba—yes
Cost—free
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, go west on Highway 276, pass under Interstate
10, and continue on to Highway 167. Turn left and go until you pass County
Road 1656. Continue on 1.1 miles to Mystery Springs Road. A gray doublewide
trailer home is at the intersection. Turn left and proceed 1.4 miles on
a dirt road until it and the forest on the left seem to end and there is
a large "No Trespassing" sign. Turn left just before the sign onto a narrow
dirt road and drive about 100 yards to the water, which is the east run
of Black Spring. Proceed by boat 200-300 feet to the left (west) to the
spring basin.
The other four springs in this section (Double, Mill Pond, Gadsen, and Springboard), are all accessible from this boat ramp.
For maps, latitude/longitude data, driving directions, satellite imagery, and topographic representations as well as weather conditions at this spring, go to Greg Johnson's informative "Florida Springs Database" web site at the following address: http://www.ThisWaytothe.Net/springs/floridasprings.htm#Florida
Spring Description
The basin is round and about 150 feet across. The water is clear and
very dark with visibility of 2-3 feet only; the name of the spring is derived
from this dark, reflective water. According to Rosenau et al. (1977, p.
173), the spring is 75 feet deep and has nearly vertical sides. There are
water lettuce and hyacinth in the basin. The spring is surrounded by dense
floodplain forest.
The spring has two runs that radiate from its basin, each of which is about 100 yards long: one to the east (and the boat launch before continuing east in a swampy area) and one to the west (toward Spring Lake). The western run then splits around a small island, with one channel continuing west and upriver in Spring Lake and the other north and east toward the downstream portion of Spring Lake and the Chipola River. The runs are about 50 feet wide and 1-6 feet deep.
Use/Access
Personal Impressions
The authors had wanted to visit this spring for several years, and
its natural beauty met all their expectations. It is a wild place in a
very rural area and feels remote and peaceful.
Nearby Springs
Double Spring
Jackson County
Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—fine-excellent
How Pristine?—houses and docks adjacent to spring/sink; otherwise natural
Swimming—fine
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—boat only, no fishing or landfall allowed
Facilities—none
Safety—unknown
Scuba—yes
Cost—free
Directions
From U.S. 90 in Marianna, go west on Highway 276, pass under Interstate
10, and continue on to Highway 167. Turn left and go until you pass County
Road 1656. Continue on 1.1 miles to Mystery Springs