There are more artesian springs along the Suwannee River and its watershed than in any other area in Florida. According to the Suwannee River Water Management District, approximately 200 Florida’s springs lie within the Suwannee River Basin (Springs of the Suwannee, pamphlet, no date).  The river, which originates in the Okeefenokee Swamp in south Georgia, wends it way south and west for 207 miles in north-central Florida before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico.  Springs line the riverbanks, well up from its riverbed, or flow into it from near its course.  Six are first-magnitude in flow.

The Suwannee is fed by dozens of creeks and several rivers, including the Alapaha, Withlacoochie, Santa Fe, and Ichetucknee Rivers—themselves created or supplemented by springs and spring flow.  It is, in fact, the springs that make the Suwannee a large river.  Above where the springs flow into the river, one can walk across it in places during dry periods.  At Manatee Springs near the river’s mouth, the Suwannee is over ¼ mile across.

Despite this abundant infusion of clear spring water, visibility in the river is poor due to tannic acid in the water from decaying vegetation. Curiously, in his 1773 visit to Florida, William Bartram noted that the Suwannee was clear as far south as Manatee Springs.  Scientists are puzzled by this observation, as it is not verified by other accounts.  Bartram’s descriptions are usually very accurate.  The Suwannee River is polluted by farm and industrial runoff, septic systems, and other sources, and recent tests indicate higher concentrations of nitrate in the river.  Other tests suggest that water issuing from springs along the Suwannee is a mixture of "new" water—groundwater that recently entered the aquifer, and "older" water—water from deeper portions of the aquifer that has been underground for up to several decades (Katz, in "Abstracts of . . ." 2000, p. 8).

Recent research on water quality in the Suwannee River noted rising nitrate levels and that 45% of the rivers "present nitrate load enters the river in an area designated as the Middle Suwannee River Basin (Greenhalgh, in Florida Geology Forum, March 2003, p. 2).  This area has a high concentration of cattle and other farming near the river.  Farmers in this area are being encouraged to adopt "Best Management Practices" to reduce nitrate loading to groundwater.  These practices, developed by the Suwannee River Partnership/Nutrient Management Working Group, include animal waste management, fertilizer management, human waste/stormwater management, monitoring and reserach, education and outreach, and program oversight and management.  For more information about the Working Group, contact the project coordinator at 904-362-1001 or 800-226-1066 (Fla. only) or e-mail smith_d@srwmd.state.fl.us

Nonetheless, the river is relatively abundant in flora and fauna.  Manatees enter it from the Gulf of Mexico in the winter to seek shelter in some of its springs, including Manatee and Fanning.  Approximately 75 species of fish are found in the river, of which two—the Suwannee bass and the banded pygmy sunfish—are endemic and found nowhere else (Carr, 1983, p. 65).  Tourism is a growing industry in the Suwannee region, including revenue from large numbers of divers who visit springs along the river.  There are an estimated 7,000 tourist-related jobs along the river, and nearly half (49%) of the visitors go to at least one spring during their visits (Mark Bonn, Fla. Springs Conference, 2003).

The Suwannee is one of the few major rivers in the eastern United States that is not dammed.  As a result, it continues the time-old pattern of periodically cresting its banks and flooding the surrounding countryside.  There were floods in 1998, for example.  Along much of its length, natural levees of 20-45 feet have developed over time, helping reduce the risk of flooding.  Even so, the periodic floods have limited development along much of its length, and one can canoe for miles—particularly in the more scenic northern section—and see few signs of human habitation.  When the river is high, its mass of water can stop or reverse the flow of springs along its banks.  In a curious hydrologic phenomenon, the flow of Falmouth Spring can reverse when the Suwannee is high—even though the spring (it is actually now called a karst window) is four miles from the river.  Recent research suggests that Falmouth travels underground to join the Suwannee River at Stevenson Spring (named in 2003 in honor of Jim Stevenson of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection).

Except in times of flood or low water, the Suwannee is navigable (at least by small boats) its entire length in Florida.  In the days of steamship travel, steamers such as the Madison ferried goods from the mouth of the river to where U.S. 90 now crosses the river in Ellaville.  Once, in time of high water—and apparently to prove it could be done—the Madison’s Captain James Tucker ran his steamer all the way to White Springs (Carr, 1983, p. 54).

Nowadays, motorboats are popular on the river’s lower stretches, but do not ply the waters much above Luraville.  Above this point, the river is increasingly shallow and narrow, and there are occasional shoals, hidden rocks, and other obstructions.  The main reason the river is deeper below Luraville is that it is fed by a large number of springs in the area.

Of the several rivers that traverse the Ocala uplift, an area where ancient tectonic action has pushed Florida’s subsurface limestone and the Floridan Aquifer near the surface, only the Suwannee flows through the uplift.  The other rivers in this region, including the Santa Fe and Alapaha, go underground and reappear on the other side of the uplift.  Over time, the Suwannee has cut its way through the limestone and directly into the aquifer, which is one of the reasons for its abundance of springs.

The Suwannee River is suitable for canoeing from Fargo, Georgia, to Suwannee River State Park.  Below the state park, motorboat traffic and the increasing width of the river make paddling less enjoyable.  Above the park, the river offers a rich diversity of foliage, wildlife, natural levees, sandbars, limestone walls, grottoes, and of course, springs.  Several communities were established at spring sites, and the towns of Branford, Fanning Springs, and White Springs continue to derive their sustenance—both liquid and financial—from the springs after which they were named.

The Suwannee River Water Management District manages land around 60-70 of the springs described in the following section.  Overall, the district now has preserved approximately 120,000 acres or spring watershed, or springshed, within its boundary area.
 
 

          A.  Florida/Georgia Border to Suwannee River State Park Area
               Bell Spring
               White Sulfur Springs
               Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring
               Louisa Spring
               Mattair Spring
               Suwannee Springs
               Holton Creek Rise
                 An Essay on Holton Spring
               Alapaha Rise
                    Unnamed Spring #1
                    Unnamed Spring #2
                 An Essay on Alapaha Rise Spring
               Stevenson Spring
               Little Gem Spring
                 An Essay on Suwannee River State Park and Its Springs
               Lime Spring
               Ellaville Spring
               Falmouth Spring
               Anderson Spring

          B.  Suwannee River Springs Near (within 10 miles of) Luraville
                    An Essay on the Springs Near Luraville
               Cork Spring
               Hidden Spring
               Charles Spring
               Allen Mill Pond Spring
               Thomas Spring
               Blue Spring
               Perry Spring
               LAF924971
               Telford Spring
               Hidden Spring
               Luraville Springs
               Pump, Baptizing, and Walker Springs
               Bonnet Spring
               Peacock Spring
               Orange Grove Spring
               Cow Spring
               Running Springs (2)
               Convict Spring
               Bathtub Spring
               Oak Spring
               Royal Spring
               Suwannee Blue Spring

          C.  Suwannee River Springs Near Branford
               Owens Spring
               Mearson Spring
               Boiling Spring
               Troy Spring
               Ruth Spring
               Little River Spring
               Sulfur Spring
               Branford Springs
               Shingle Spring

          D.  Suwannee River Springs Below the Santa Fe to Chiefland
               Turtle Spring
               Fletcher Spring
               Pothole Spring
               Rock Bluff Springs
               Guaranto Spring
               Lumbercamp Spring
               Sun (or Aiken) Spring
               Hart Springs
                    An Essay on Hart Springs
               McCrabb Spring
               Otter Springs
               Little Copper Spring
               Copper Spring
               Fanning (or Fannin’) and Little Fanning Springs
                    An Essay on Fanning Springs
               Manatee Springs
 
 

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd magnitude
Scenery—poor
How Pristine?—dammed into fish ponds
Swimming—no
Protection—private
Wildlife—good
Crowds—none
Access—none—private land
Facilties—none
Safety—N/A
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
Located 2-3 miles due east of White Springs on the southeast bank of the Suwannee River, a little downriver from Big Shoals and a short distance downriver from and on the same side as where Robinson Creek enters the river. From White Springs travel north on County Road 135. After 3-4 miles turn right onto Goodwin Bridge Road and take to the boat launch. Spring is about two miles downriver from the launch on the left side. It is another 6 miles or so to the takeout at U.S. 41.

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 authors have not visited the spring, which is on private property and not open to the public.  The owner has dammed the spring, creating three pools to raise catfish, for swimming, and as a water source.  According to Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 97), there is a tear-drop-shaped spring pool with dimensions of 75 by 150 feet, and at the vent the pool is 7 feet deep. The spring creates a run of 0.4 to the river, and, according to Carter & Pierce, "its drainage into the river is not identifiable as a spring run" (1993, p. 123).

Use/Access
No access.

Nearby Springs

• Mattair
• White (or White Sulfur) Spring
• Louisa Spring
• Suwannee Springs
• Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring

• Big Shoals
• Little Shoals
• Swift Creek

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—large concrete/wood structure around spring; land cleared
Swimming—no
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—poor
Crowds—can be crowded on warm weekends
Access—excellent
Facilities—excellent
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
The spring is 0.1 mile west of the intersection of U.S. 41 and State Road 136 on the Suwannee River in White Springs. Look for signs to the Stephen Foster State Folk Culture Center. As you approach the Culture Center, you will see the old spring house on the left. You can pay to enter the park, or park at the spring for no charge.

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 a limestone cavity and into the adjacent Suwannee River. It is enclosed by the remnants of a large "spring house," a four-story structure with beveled corners on the inside that provided access and accompanying health treatments. Multi-level ports—a tall sluice gate—in the spring house were designed to limit intrusion of the river when water levels were high. Stairs lead to the top, which is covered with a white wooden structure with cedar shingles. The gate is gone now from the sluice but water still flows out through it into the river. The flow was strong when the authors visited in 1998 and 1999.

The pool is circular and 12-15 in diameter. Most of the pool is only about three feet or deep or less. The water has a sulphurous smell and is lightly tannin-colored. The depth of the pool varies with the level of the river. The park ranger told RB that the spring hadn't flowed in years, but is now flowing again. Either the water table was too low (due to industrial drawdowns?) or part of the cave had collapsed. During the floods of winter, 1998, the water rose above the railing around the top of the spring house—approximately 35 feet.

Use/Access

• The spring has no current use, but is frequented by visitors to the Culture Center. It is one of the most complete ruins of the types of structures that were built around a number of Florida springs in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries.
• Doctors offices, changing rooms, and concessions were once located inside the wings. Wooden balcony-walkways led around each floor looking down into the pool, giving a gallery effect. You can still see the niches in the wall where the galleries were attached. An elevator on one side carried patients from pool level to the top and from there they could get to the wings – no door was cut in the thick concrete walls surrounding the spring. In the middle you can look down on the spring itself, but don't jump – it's quite a drop, and besides, wooden grillwork bars you from the side over the deepest part, the side most distant from the river.
• The adjacent Culture Center costs $3.25 per car. It features the Stephen Foster Museum in what looks like an antebellum plantation house. On closer inspection, the walls are revealed to be made of concrete block. Inside are furniture that Foster owned and a continuously running video about White Springs. One learns that Foster never saw the Suwannee River–he just needed a two-syllable southern river name that sounded melodic and exotic. The Philadelphia native poured over an atlas, and after rejecting various names (including "Peedee), his finger happened to pass over the Suwannee. He changed the spelling to Swanee in his famous song.

• Four times a day–10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4—the bell tower plays Stephen Foster songs on its giant carillon. Inside the tower are old manuscripts and other Foster memorabilia. Near the tower is a store selling crafts, many of which are made locally.
• Various cultural events are held here, the most famous being the Florida Folk Festival each spring, a big musical event.
• The Culture Center includes picnic areas, grills, and a section of the Florida Trail that runs along the Suwannee River in the park.
• The Center also includes a "Craft Square" where visitors may observe craft makers create old-timey crafts.

• White Sulfur Springs was once the site of a health spa. In 1895, according to the park video, the town had 2,000 inhabitants, making it one of the larger towns in Florida. Now this picturesque little town has less than half that population. Take time to read the white sign in the parking lot by the gate. It has an old photograph of the springhouse, built in 1906, and a floor plan. You could stay here for $3.50 a night, including "excellent meals." People flocked her to let the healing waters cure them of "rheumatism, indigestion, dandruff, insomnia." Treatments ranged from the Violet Ray (75 cents) to $3 for the "special treatment for high blood pressure." Among the visitors were Theodore Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway. Unfortunately, a fire swept through town in 1911, and the resort went downhill from that point.
• Native Americans also used the site.

Nearby Springs

• Mattair Spring
• Bell Spring
• Louisa Spring
• Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring
• Suwannee Springs

• Big Shoals

• Little Shoals

• Swift Creek

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery—Excellent
How Pristine?—unspoiled
Swimming—no
Protection—private, unknown
Wildlife—very good
Crowds—None
Access—good, canoe only
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—no
Cost—boat launch or rental fee

Directions
"Located 3.5 miles w. of White Springs, less than 100 yards upstream of the bridge across Swift Creek" (Rosenau et al., 1977, p. 140).

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 authors have not located this spring or a description of it. When RB canoed Swift Creek in fall 1999, he was not aware of such a spring along the run and did not see one. Rosenau et al.’s directions above do not account for the two bridges that cross Swift Creek—perhaps there was only one bridge when Springs of Florida was published in 1977.

Use/Access
Presumably accessible via canoe on Swift Creek. Swift Creek is an exciting and challenging run.

Nearby Springs

• White (or White Sulfur) Springs
• Louisa Spring
• Suwannee Springs
• Bell Spring
• Mattair Spring

• Big Shoals
• Little Shoals

Summary of Features
Scale—4^th magnitude
Scenery—very good
Swimming—no
Protection—private
Crowds—none
Access—private
Facilities—none
Safety—private
Scuba—no
Cost—N/A

Directions
Located a short distance upriver of where Interstate 75 crosses the Suwannee River on the northwest bank. By canoe, it is about 7 miles below the put-in at U.S. 41 near White Springs.

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 authors have not visited the spring.  Hornsby & Ceryak (1998, p. 77), place the spring at latitude 30 degrees, 20’ 47" and longitude 82 degrees, 49’ 54".  It is adjacent to the river in a small circular pool on private land. Exposed limestone encircles the spring. Rosenau et al. provide a second-hand description:  "The owner reported the spring vent about 18 feet in diameter and visible when the Suwannee River is at low stage" (1977, p. 139).

Use/Access
Private property.  One can canoe to the spring.

Nearby Springs

• White (or White Sulfur) Springs
• Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring
• Bell Spring
• Suwannee Springs
• Mattair Spring

• Big Shoals
• Little Shoals

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd magnitude
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—very pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—excellent
Crowds—none
Access—good—requires walking a mile
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
From Live Oak, drive north on U.S. 129 for 6-7 miles. Turn right onto County Road 136A. Turn on 85^th Road, then right onto 75^th Road to the entrance. Drive until the road ends and then follow the path upriver along the river about a mile 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
When visited in fall 1999—a time of prolonged dry weather and low water level in the Suwannee River, the spring was dry. When flowing, it is a small upwelling from exposed limestone in a grotto with a short run to the Suwannee River. The water has a sulfurous odor.

Use/Access
The land is protected by the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) and is open to the public.

Personal Impressions

RB could not figure out why he could not find the spring when it was marked clearly on the SRWMD map. It was not until he and JF found another dry spring that he realized the depression he had seen earlier was Mattair.

Nearby Springs

• White (or White Sulfur) Springs
• Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring
• Bell Spring
• Suwannee Springs
• Louisa Spring

• Big Shoals
• Little Shoals

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—remnant of stone structure around spring, cleared land, beach area
Swimming—fair, water is sulfurous
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—fair to good
Crowds—can be crowded on warm weekends
Access—fine
Facilities—good
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
From Live Oak, drive about 7 miles north on U.S. 129, crossing under Interstate 10. Turn right on old highway 129, just before the agriculture station and solid waste collection site, and before crossing the Suwannee River. Turn right on dirt road sign-posted for 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
A rectangular stone floodwall surrounds the spring on three sides–on one side, white sand has filled in to make a small beach. A lower stone wall encloses the spring itself. On the wall facing the Suwannee are three arched openings, two of them big enough to walk through when the river is low. The pool is about 40 feet in diameter. The spring is attractive, with clear greenish-yellow water that has a marked sulfurous odor. The spring has two vents and a limestone ledge beneath the water but clearly visible. One flow is from under the SE corner of the wall from limestone openings. There is another flow near the center of the pool from beneath the limestone ledge, creating a mild slick on the surface that is about 3 feet in diameter. Suwannee Spring flows through a hole in the floodwall directly into the river.

There are two other vents just outside the enclosure at its base. These vents are inundated in times of high water, but are easy to spot when water levels are low. In addition, there is another vent about 45 feet east of the structure at the edge of the river, and at least three other flow points at points from 40-60 feet west of the structure, all at the edge of the bank. On date of visit (March 2001), all were flowing and had strong or otherwise clearly visible boils.

A concrete walkway leads down to the ruins. The walls of the walkway look like rough-hewn stone at first glance, but they are really wedge-like concrete blocks.

Use/Access

• The site is protected and has been restored by the Suwannee River Water Management District and is open to the public. Besides the old walls around the spring, there is a path to a large sandbar that is used for picnicking, swimming and sunbathing by the river. Fishing, biking, and horseback riding are also permitted on the tract.
• On the other side of U.S. 129, by the current U.S. 129 bridge, is the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park and campground. Many people confuse this commercial park with the Stephen Foster Cultural Center in nearby White Springs. I-75 is about three miles north of the bridge.

• There is a scenic trail along the high banks of the river. The sandy path goes up and down along the high rocky banks, emerging right at the foot of the old bridge. The bridge is closed to traffic and provides a scenic vista above the Suwannee. Downstream in the distance is the current U.S. 129 bridge.

• Text from Johnson & Faircloth:

• There is a notorious murder associated with Suwannee Springs. In 1941, a young (17) black man was beaten by a white mob, tied in chains, and thrown into the spring where he drowned.  The youth had supposedly sent a greeting card to a white girl in the community.  No one was ever arrested or punished for the crime.  In late 2000, a radio reporter tracked down the aged but still-living mother of the victim, who had moved away from the Suwannee Springs area shortly after the murder.  The mother refused to speak with the reporter about the crime; other relatives told the reporter that the mother still feared retribution from the community after 60 years.

• In a 1852 book, supposed author Charles Clinton provides the following descriptino of Suwannee Springs:

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The following day we proceeded to Suwannee Springs, and stopped at Mr. Tresvant's, where we found excellent accommodations.  This is a fashionable watering-place for the Floridians in summer; and the river Suwannee is within one hundred yards of the house.  It is a clear, rapid stream, with bold rocky banks.  The spring is white sulphur, immediately on the margin of the river.  The path to it is precipitous; and there is a wooden machine to lower visitors, if too indolent to walk.  There are good arrangements for swimming and shower baths; and should suppose that a few weeks might be passed comfortably here.  There is some fishing; and wild turkeys and deer are numerous.  Leaving this place with reluctance . . . (p. 36)

• White (or White Sulfur) Springs
• Iron (or Wesson’s Iron) Spring
• Bell Spring
• Mattair Spring
• Louisa Spring

• Big Shoals
• Little Shoals

Summary of Features
Scale—1^st magnitude
Scenery—outstanding
How Pristine?—completely pristine
Swimming—no
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—excellent
Crowds—none
Access—must have exact directions and map
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
From Madison, take U.S. 90 east 2-3 miles until the fork with State Road 6. Take SR6 east, across the Withlacoochie River, and proceed about 12 miles to County Road 751. Turn right and drive about 3.5 miles to SW 67^th Drive. Turn left. (If you pass the agriculture weigh station or cross the Suwannee River, you have gone too far.) SW 67th Drive is a wide dirt road that angles sharply back. The sign for Adams Farm Country Store (also called the "Y’all Mart") is plainly visible, moreso than the small sign for the Holton Creek WMA. Continue down the dirt road, passing the country store on your left in an area of clear-cut logging. This is the only structure to be seen as far as the eye can see. Note the catfish pond next to the small store. The sign advertises pork sandwiches, the only food to be bought for miles in any direction.

Just after the store, turn right onto a narrower dirt road, following the signs. The spring is about 2.5 miles down this road. The roads are numbered with tiny metal squares on low posts–this one is "Road 1". Follow the road, and the Holton WMA signs through alternating planted pines and hardwoods. At about 0.7 miles, you pass a small brown shed and 2 little signs with a small roof over them, with posters behind glass. Continue onward and when you come to Road 8, turn left and go until you reach Road 5. Turn right on Road 5 and Holton Spring will be on your left. See Holton Map.

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 acre-sized spring/creek rise and its run lie in deep woods and are canopied. The basin is surrounded by steep banks of 30 feet or more and makes a sharp turn as it empties into its 0.7 mile run to the Suwannee River. The pool is over 200 feet in diameter. Water in the spring was tannin-colored on the date the authors visited. Turtles and gar were visible at or near the surface. Holton has a powerful flow. Limestone outcrops line the edges of the basin, and a trail leads around the spring and along both sides of the run. A few hundred feet down the run, an immense cypress tree sits in the middle of the stream. When the site was visited (late spring 1999) the land was dotted with white swamp lilies, sweet gum balls, and palmettos. Huge hardwood trees surround the spring, while the surrounding land is pocked with sinkholes and hollows. Herons and egrets were observed at the spring.

Use/Access
Holton is one of the most remote springs in Florida. Without precise directions, it is virtually impossible to locate. Now that the Suwannee River Water Management District protects Holton Spring and 2,300 acres around it, access is no longer difficult. Their description (Johnson & Faircloth) of the site is worth quoting in detail:

Personal Impressions
Holton is one of the most attractive and pristine springs in Florida. Watch for potholes in the dirt roads abound the spring. JF jounced the canoe off RB’s new car when they visited, scratching the paint job on the car.

Nearby Springs

• Alapaha Rise Spring
• Lime Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

Holton is one of Florida’s 33 first magnitude springs, meaning its flow is at least 65 million gallons each day. Holton’s average flow is 186 million gallons/day. Although the land surrounding the management area is all either farm land or clear-cut moonscape, the trees get larger and the forest more dense as you near the spring. Sinkholes pock the surrounding landscape, and you know you are in spring country.

The spring is an acre-sized pool in a 30-foot deep depression surrounded completely by overhanging pine and oak trees. A huge cypress looms over the spring. The spring cannot be seen from the road, so scramble out and walk the trail on its perimeter. The south end is open for the powerful and swift run to the Suwannee River. Turtles, herons, and gar seemed very surprised at being discovered, and indeed the site is offers rare solitude and communion with nature. The day of our visit, thousands of lily-like flowers were in bloom all around the spring, washing the rolling hills in pink and peach.

The water was not clear this day, so of course I shall have to return to see if it is always tinged with tannin or might be clear under other conditions. Make a visit yourself. After going you’ll be able to stump your friends and colleagues by asking if they have been to Holton.

Contact Information
Suwannee River Water Management District
9225 CR49
Live Oak, FL 32060
800-226-1066
 
 

Summary of Features
Scale—1^st magnitude
Scenery—outstanding
How Pristine?—very unspoiled
Swimming—fair
Protection—unknown/private
Wildlife—good
Crowds—none
Access—difficult, canoe only
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Directions
From Madison, take U.S. 90 east 2-3 miles until the fork with State Road 6. Take SR6 east, across the Withlacoochie River, and proceed about 12 miles to County Road 751. Turn right and drive about four miles to Suwannee River. Take boat ramp at Hutch Gibson Park (on the NW side of the river), and canoe upriver about ¼ mile. A few hundred feet past the CR751 bridge, you will see water rushing out with great force on the left—it is the mouth of the spring run.

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
As its name suggests, Alapaha Rise Spring is likely the rise of a portion of the Alapaha River. It water is dark, and it meets the Suwannee River about 1/3 miles above where the Alapaha River proper joins with the Suwannee. The spring rears up in an 80-foot-wide box canyon at the head of a 400-foot run. The walls surrounding the spring are vertical limestone (20-30 feet high) and pocked with holes, fissures, and fractures. The run, which is about 60 feet wide, discharges powerfully into the Suwannee River.

Rosenau et al. report there is a sink about 250 feet north of Alapaha Rise. At the bottom of the sink, water can be seen flowing toward the rise (1977, p. 133).

Use/Access

• Paddling into the mouth of the swift run is strenuous. After the first 20 yards or so, the current is not as strong and the headwater may be reached with relative ease. Despite the steep walls around the spring, visitors climb to the top and there is a rope swing and platform in a perimeter tree.
• The land around Alapaha Rise is private, and the dirt road that leads from the agriculture station back to the land directly above the Rise is blocked by an imposing wooden stockade and gate.
• At the lower end of the spring run, there is a dock leading to a house on the east bank.

• Across the Suwannee River from the mouth of the Alapaha Rise run is a small, Unnamed Spring (#1) waterfall. Water flows over rocks a few feet above the river, and would be submerged when the river is much above normal. Thick green algae grow in the cascade. Water flowing from the spring has a sulfurous odor.

• Upriver about 250 feet and across from the mouth of the Alapaha Rise run is another small, Unnamed Spring (#2). This spring lies beneath the middle of three boulders at the edge of the river and is only visible in time of drought when the river is well below normal. The little spring has small flow but two dramatic boils when the river level is lower than its issue point—the flows look like water fountains. Water from the spring has a sulfurous odor.

In their comprehensive compendium on springs in the Suwannee River basin, Hornsby & Ceryak (1998) identify and photograph two springs at the approximate location of the above-unnamed springs (SUW925974—p. 123, and SUW925975, p. 127). However, neither of these springs looks much like the springs described above.

Personal Impressions
Like nearby Holton Spring, Alapaha Rise is a spectacular and pristine site. Although it is near the bridge and highway and there is a road directly above it, it feels remote and receives very few visitors. Paddling into the spring is hard work and a lot of fun. Its box-canyon appearance is unique among springs of Florida.

Nearby Springs

• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Lime Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Stevenson Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

From I-75 or I-10, take SR 6 to CR 751 and go south to the Suwannee. After the agricultural weigh station on the left, there is a boat ramp on the right in Gibson County Park. Alapaha Rise is just 100 yards behind the agricultural weigh station, but the land around it is private so you’ll need to paddle into it from the boat ramp. Go upriver under the bridge and you’ll see the opening on the left.

Now comes the hard part. The entrance to Alapaha Rise is only 50 feet wide and less than 10 feet deep, but an average of 520 million gallons of water comes out of it each day—that’s about 6,000 gallons of water per second. So you have to stroke with maximum force to get in. After the first 25 yards, you’ve made it and can ease off. Limestone walls stretch upward until they form a 40-foot mini-gorge and box canyon around the rise.

The walls are sheer and honeycombed with thousands of holes as if drilled by a lunatic. To borrow a phrase from Frost, the water is "lovely, dark, and deep," and roils from the upwelling river. According to divers, the vent is 150 feet wide, and you take their word for it because the tannin-laced water does not invite swimming. It is a primeval scene, and you will have it all to yourself.

Canoeing out is exciting, for now your paddling will shoot you through the entrance at great speed--just hope a speedboat is not coming by on the Suwannee at that moment. Directly across the river is a little spring cascade, and the exposed limestone, caves, sandbars, and extremely high natural levees along this stretch make it one of the prettiest spots of the entire Suwannee River.
 
 

Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—very unspoiled
Swimming—good
Protection—unknown/private
Wildlife—good
Crowds—none
Access—very good, by boat only
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Directions
The spring is located at latitude 30.4167N and longitude 83.1528W.

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 is located on the east bank of the Suwannee River north of Suwannee River State Park.  Water flows strongly from a cavern opening in the limestone bank.  Recent research suggests this site, which has an average output of 92 cubic feet per second (nearly 60 million gallons a day), is the outflow point of Falmouth Spring, a karst window several miles to the south.

Use/Access

• Formerly called Lineater Spring for its strong current, this spring was officially renamed Stevenson Spring in honor of Jim Stevenson, the chair of the Florida Springs Task Force and the state's leading and most effective advocate for springs education and protection.
• The former spring name was given because of the powerful flow that divers in the spring faced.  It is a popular dive spot.
• The spring may be reached by boat from a ramp that is 1/4 mile downstream on the west bank.

• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Lime Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

 

 
 


















Little Gem (or Lime) Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd magnitude (estimated)
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—unspoiled; steps to spring
Swimming—excellent wading, dipping
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—good
Crowds—few
Access—good, must walk or paddle 1/4 mile along river from boat ramp
Facilities—none at site, excellent nearby
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—$2 per car

Quick Directions
From boat ramp at Suwannee River State Park, walk upriver about ¼ mile to the spring on the left (or boat upriver that distance and spring will be on the right).

Full Directions
From Interstate 10 exit #38 travel north four miles to town of Lee and turn right (east) on U.S. 90. Drive about 12 miles to Suwannee River State Park shortly after crossing the Suwannee River and proceed to the parking area just above the boat ramp at the end of the paved road. From I-10 exit #39, travel west on U.S. 90 about 8-9 miles to the state park. (You will pass the entrance to Falmouth Spring on the way from exit #39.)

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
Steps lead from the riverside/levee trail down to the spring, which is set about 10 feet from the edge of the river in a small alcove. It has a small and deep pool that is 8 feet in diameter. Water flows up from a vent of unknown depth and around the trunk of an old tree. The tree was up-ended and plunged into the spring when the force of floodwaters of the Suwannee River caused the spring to reverse and become a siphon. The water is clear and blue except in times of high water.

The natural river levee rises in a semi-circle around the spring, and a large cypress sits at its upriver side at the water’s edge. When the Suwannee River is either low or at normal height, water tumbles out of the spring into the river. There is another vent below the cascade at the river’s edge, and when the river is low its boil can be up to one foot above the surface. The nearby shoreline has clay deposits.

Use/Access

• The State Park offers trails, interpretive displays, camping, picnic facilities, vending machines, showers, and bathrooms.
• The walk from the boat ramp to Little Gem Spring takes a pleasant 5-10 minutes and runs along the top of the river levee. There are interpretive signs, and the mouth of Lime Spring run is at the beginning of the trail.
• Suwannacoochie Spring, Lime Spring Run, Ellaville Spring, and Little Gem Spring are all within about 400 yards of the boat ramp at the State Park.

Nearby Springs

• Alapaha Spring
• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Stevenson Spring
• Lime Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

An Essay on Suwannee River State Park and Its Springs
Suwannee River State Park has an identity problem. I can hear you now: "Oh, yeah," you’re saying, "I’ve been there. They have a, um, big country and craft festival thing in the spring. Bell tower plays Stephen Foster songs." No, no, no. You’re thinking of the Stephen Foster Cultural Center or the Suwannee River Music Park. Suwannee River State Park is a different spot and is located NW of Live Oak or 70 miles east of Tallahassee between Interstate 10 exits number 38 or 39.

Suwannee River is one of my favorite state parks, and my first visit is burned into my memory because, well, the park was on fire when I arrived. A controlled burn had just been done in the pine and bracken fern uplands, and there were still smoldering and even flaming spots along the trail.

Created in 1936, Suwannee River State Park has just about everything except crowds. The Withlacoochie and Suwannee Rivers meet in the park, which also includes upland, river, and deep-woods habitats; springs, fishing and canoeing, camping, picnicking, and slices of Florida history that are as thick as country bacon. As with many hidden treasures, however, you need to get away from the parking lot to appreciate them.

On the upland trail is the ghost of the town of Columbus. Once a thriving community with a mill and ferryboat crossing, all that remains of Columbus today is a cemetery that gives mute and poignant testimony to the difficulty of frontier life. One grave marker, for Jearl who died at age five, reads, "Oh, how hard but we give thee up, Our precious little one." A smaller marker, for Jearl’s unnamed sibling who died at seven months, says simply: "He who took you knoweth best." This is a dry, quiet, sad place; the only sounds are calls from crows, buzzing insects, and the occasional breeze blowing through the rusted wrought-iron fences around the family plots.

Heading back to the river, you walk briefly on the original road connecting St. Augustine and Pensacola. It is just a sandy path, really, and it is easy to imagine you have been transported back to the days when doomed little Jearl romped in the dirt, back further to when Union troops heading for the railroad bridge here were bloodied in the Civil War battle of Olustee; and back further still to when legislators traveled on horseback to session in Tallahassee, camping along the way and keeping a sharp eye on panthers, bears, and their per diem.

The other park trail leads deep into the woods along Lime Spring run. Ancient oak and cypress arch over, and the quiet, lucky observer may see alligator, beaver, and fox. Come back along the river and look for steps leading down to a delightful surprise. Little Gem Spring issues from the bank, creating a waterfall and a cool swimmin’ hole that is the best place to get wet in the park. You’ll share the spring with an old-growth trunk that looks like it was stuffed into the spring by a giant—see if you can figure out how Mother Nature placed it there. It is possible to rock the tree back and forth, but not even King Arthur could pull it out.

At this spring is another sight--a dramatic boil of spring water in the river itself. When the river is low, the water bubbles up more than a foot above the surface. By the boat ramp are two dozen spring seeps flowing into the river. They only flow under certain conditions of river height and rainfall, and would be better named weeps than seeps--liquid crystal tears trickling into the coffee-colored Suwannee.

There is another wonderful spring just outside the park. Just past where the Withlacoochee meets the Suwannee--by the railroad bridge--is Ellaville spring. Set down among large trees and boulders, this spring flows up a straw-like crack more than 100 feet deep. Clear water forms two secret pools before crashing through the boulders into the river.

On the way to Ellaville Spring you’ll pass the Civil War fortification built to protect the railroad bridge and river approaches. Then there’s—well, I’d better stop. And so should you the next time you’re driving by the park on that 350 miles of flat, straight, narcolepsy-inducing graytop that is Florida’s I-10. Burn yourself a little memory, and cool it off in a spring.
 
 

Summary of Features
Scale—1^st magnitude, intermittent
Scenery—outstanding
How Pristine?—mostly unspoiled; bridge over mouth of run and path along run, near a boat ramp
Swimming—none
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—fair to excellent
Crowds—none
Access—very good, 30-minute walk
Facilities—excellent
Safety—good
Scuba—no
Cost—$2 per car

Directions
From Interstate 10 exit #38 travel north four miles to town of Lee and turn right (east) on U.S. 90. Drive about 12 miles to Suwannee River State Park shortly after crossing the Suwannee River and proceed to the parking area just above the boat ramp at the end of the paved road. Lime Spring Run trail heads back from this parking area. The spring pool is just beyond where the trail crosses the run in Suwannee River State Park. The spring appears to lie within the State Park boundaries, but one must leave the path to reach it. From I-10 exit #39, travel west on U.S. 90 about 8-9 miles to the state park. (You will pass the entrance to Falmouth Spring on the way from exit #39.)

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
When visited separately by the authors in times of dry weather (1997, 1999), the spring appeared as a sink—a circular depression of between ½ and 1 acre that had no visible flow. Another similar depression lies between the spring and the run. According to Rosenau et al., who visited the spring under flood conditions, the spring is about 70 feet deep and has a large cave in the center (1977, p. 369). When the authors visited, the water was dark and the area was thick with vegetation.

The spring run, which has also been called Dry Run, Limesink Run, Lime Run Sink, and Dryspring Run, is often dry. The run is 2/3 mile and empties into the Suwannee River about 75 feet above the boat ramp in the State Park. Under certain conditions when the spring is flowing and run flows into the river, there is another small spring in the run on the south side about 40 feet from the mouth of the run. At times, small seeps may be seen along the banks of the river below the mouth of the run and the State Park boat ramp.

Use/Access

• The trail from the boat ramp along the spring run is one of the more scenic in Florida, with huge cypress and other hardwoods, giant cypress knees, and abundant wildlife.
• Suwannacoochie, Lime Spring Run, Ellaville Spring, and Little Gem Spring are all within about 400 yards of the boat ramp at the State Park.

Nearby Springs

• Alapaha Spring
• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Stevenson Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—very pristine
Swimming—fair
Protection—unknown
Wildlife—none observed
Crowds—few
Access—fair to good
Facilities—none
Safety—fair to good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Quick Directions
Just past and behind the agriculture weigh station where U.S. 90 crosses the Suwannee River, about 50 feet from the railroad trestle on the east bank.

Full Directions
From Interstate 10 exit #38 travel north four miles to town of Lee and turn right (east) on U.S. 90. Drive about 11 miles and cross the Suwannee River. The turnoff to Ellaville Spring is right after you cross the Suwannee. Turn left on the dirt road that cuts sharply behind the agricultural inspection station on the north side of Highway 90. Turn left on a dirt/grass path just before the railroad tracks and drive about 150 feet toward the river. The spring is 75 feet on the left.

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
Water flows out of a tube-like cave system, forms two small pools, and then tumbles powerfully into the Suwannee River through massive limestone boulders. The first pool is only a few feet in diameter and is the site of the vent, which cannot be seen clearly in the shade despite the clear water. The second pool is larger—about 8 by 15 feet—and about 6 feet deep. Limestone boulders line and sit in the 35-foot run to the river. Scuba divers JF met at the site said there was a narrow vertical shaft—at least 125 feet deep—that they had just dived. The site is completely canopied, and algae grows on the limestone.

Use/Access

• The boulders are fun to climb around on but are sharp and the moss on some of them makes going slippery, so watch your step. The spring offers good dipping but not really swimming—the perpetual shade make getting wet a chilling experience, and the strong flow toward the sharp rocks inspires concerns that one might be swept away.
• Suwannacoochie Spring, Lime Spring Run, Ellaville Spring, and Little Gem Spring are all within about 400 yards of the boat ramp at the State Park.

With its huge boulders, waterfall, swirling pools, and clear dark waters, Ellaville is visually striking. The impression is increased by the mundane surroundings in which it is located.

Nearby Springs

• Alapaha Spring
• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Stevenson Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Lime Spring
• Falmouth Spring
• Adams Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

Summary of Features
Scale—1^st magnitude to no flow, depending on conditions
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—restored to relatively pristine; boardwalk along run and steps to spring; parking area above spring
Swimming—good to very good
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—good
Crowds—can be crowded on warm weekends
Access—fine
Facilities—fair
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Directions
From Interstate 10 exit #38, travel north four miles to town of Lee and turn right (east) on U.S. 90. Drive about 14 miles to and turn right into spring entrance 2.2 miles east of the entrance to Suwannee River State Park. From I-10 exit #39, travel west on U.S. 90 about 5 miles to the spring entrance on the left.

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
Falmouth is a spring-sink combination that is now characterized as a "karst window" (see also Riversink and Kini Springs). The circular pool lies in a depression with banks of over 30 feet and is about 80 feet in diameter. When JF visited, the water was a milky blue with visibility of a few feet. The water was greenish when RB visited. Hornsby & Ceryak observed the water as being tannin-colored (1998, p. 107). According to Rosenau et al., the spring has a vent at a depth of 45 feet leading to a cave and a tunnel that is 400 feet long (1977, p. 367).

The spring run is averages about 40 feet wide and flows about 200 yards to a sink that is about 60 feet wide and 40 feet deep. The run is shallow and rocky. Before the site was restored (see below), the surface of the sink was littered with fallen debris and garbage. Now a boardwalk offers access to the sink, which has a slight counterclockwise swirl. The waters eventually merge with the underground sources of the Suwannee, four miles away. Just before it gets to the cliff and disappears, the run passes, sometimes noisily, over and through rocks. The spring and its run lie deep in a hollow spot, surrounded by tall trees that shade the water. Green algae grow on rocks and banks.

Recent research suggests that the water in Falmouth travels several miles south and joins the Suwannee River at Stevenson Spring.

Use/Access

• The site is managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District, which has conducted extensive restoration to the site, which had been eroded, denuded, and trashed.
• There is a boardwalk to prevent erosion. There are also picnic tables and a chemical toilet on the site.

Personal Impressions
When JF first visited the spring, he witnessed the spectacle of two local children discovering a snake—most likely non-venomous—and then joyously beating it to death with a piece of knotted length of rope while their mother hollered cautionary advice from across the spring. At that time there was also a spectacular rope swing that started at least 25 feet above the water and dropped the swinger from that height into the deep part of the spring. JF enjoyed trying it.

Nearby Springs

• Alapaha Spring
• Anderson Spring
• Holton Spring
• Little Gem Spring
• Ellaville Spring
• Lime Spring
• Adams Spring
• Stevenson Spring
• Morgan’s Spring
• Suwannacoochie Spring

• Suwannee River State Park
• Withlacoochie River
• Two Rivers State Forest

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—unspoiled; dirt road to site and small parking areas
Swimming—fair-good
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—very good
Crowds—occasional fishermen
Access—very good
Facilities—none
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
From Interstate 10 exit on old exit #38 (exit also for Suwannee River State Park) and travel north four miles to town of Lee and turn right (east) on U.S. 90.  Drive about 12 miles and cross the Suwannee River.  Take the first right past the bridge onto River Road (across from agriculture station). Drive 2.2 miles, crossing over Interstate 10.  Take the first right into the Anderson Spring State Recreation Area.  Drive about 0.3 miles to the main parking area (past the kiosk) and then look inland for the spring depression.  To locate the flowpoint in the river, walk from the parking area to the river and look for the upwelling adjacent to the shore in a nearly direct line from the parking area.

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 is described and has been photographed as being both inland from the river and lying in the riverbed itself.  When Rosenau et al. visited in 1974, they found a dry run of 150 feet leading from the river to a shallow pool, 50 feet in diameter, in a low-lying and somewhat swampy area. No flow was visible. A local resident informed them that the pool sometimes flowed and was used for swimming (1977, p. 356).

This pool has not had water or flow in it on the four times the authors have visited from 1995-2003.   Just to the right of the entrance road--and across from the main parking area--are the dry depression, pool area, and run described by Rosenau et al.  The run goes back perhaps 200 feet, and there are several low spots from when water might flow under very wet conditions.  There is no evidence of recent flow, however.  There is a clear and evident flow point just off the shore in the bed of the river nearby (see photograph).  Rosenau noted that divers had identified Anderson Spring as being in the bed of the river at this latter spot.  Hornsby & Ceryak also report the spring as only being in the river (1998, p. 108). It may be that (1) water in the pool also flows underground beneath the dry run to well up in the river where observed, (2) the pool may still flow overland as well under certain hydrological conditions, (3) the pool no longer flows and flow is only in the riverbed where observed, (4) some other explanation or combination of the above theories is correct.

Use/Access
The tract was run as a management area in the 1990s by the Suwannee River Water Management District.  It is now a state recreation area managed by the Florida Park Service.  The site includes an informational kiosk, trails, fishing, chemical toilet, and a boat ramp.  Visitors can swim in the river.

Nearby Springs

Alapaha Spring

Falmouth Spring

Holton Spring

Little Gem Spring

Ellaville Spring

Lime Spring

Adams Spring

Morgan’s Spring

Suwannacoochie Spring

Suwannee River State Park

Withlacoochie River

Two Rivers State Forest

In a line that runs from the northwest to the southeast along the Suwannee River lie at least 25 springs. At the center of this concentration is the hamlet of Luraville, north and east of the river in Suwannee County about five miles north of Mayo. The majority of the springs line the river, but some—Peacock and Orange Grove being the most notable—are inland on the east bank. Several of the springs are currently either protected by the state (Allen Mill Pond, Charles, Peacock, Orange, Bonnet, and Royal) or otherwise open to the public and readily accessible (Blue, Telford, Cow, and Convict). A number of others can be reached by land or water without trespassing, although several are very difficult to locate. The rest are on private property.

The springs range greatly in description, size, condition, and utilization. In addition, the character of the springs varies dramatically based on the level of rainfall and the height of the Suwannee River. Some have no flow at all when the river is low, and many are hidden by the tannic-acid-water of the Suwannee when the river is high. Of the springs in this group, only a few—Blue, Telford, Royal—offer real swimming opportunities. Several more, including Peacock, Orange Grove, Bonnet, and Convict, are popular or even renowned scuba sites.
 
 

An Essay on the Springs Near Luraville
I’ll bet you’ve never been to Luraville, Florida, and you may not have ever heard of this tiny crossroads by the Suwannee River. Located 15 miles south of Live Oak halfway between Gainesville and Tallahassee, Luraville has a flashing light, gas station, and a church. Oh, and there are also two dive shops because Luraville may have more springs than people.

In a state with more springs than anywhere else, nondescript Luraville is "spring central." Within 10 miles of the town are at least 25, including Telford, Bathtub, Cow, Peacock, Orange Grove, Bonnet, Blue, Convict, Charles, Luraville, Pump, Thomas, Royal, and Running. Some of the springs are state- or county-managed, but many are on private land with varying accessibility.

The best known site is Peacock, which was purchased by the Nature Conservancy in the 1980s and is now a State Recreation Area. Peacock is a scuba mecca and gateway to an underwater cave system that has been mapped for several miles. The recreation area also contains lovely sinkholes that tap into the aquifer, and there is another beautiful sink just across the road. But while Peacock is great for divers, there is not much for anyone else to do, so let’s move on.

The main local hangout is Telford Spring, which is two minutes from the flashing light. A low, sandy spring along the river, Telford has clear water flowing from a cave 16 feet down. The key-shaped spring and its run create a strong current. Although on private property, there is free access to the spring, which also contains the obligatory rope swing on the river. Heavy local use has badly eroded the land around the spring, and you need to watch for bottle caps and occasional broken glass. On the other hand, it’s the kind of place where no one will notice that your belly hangs out, men spit without guilt, women wear bras as bikini tops, and boiled peanuts are available on weekends.

A few minutes away is Charles Spring, which is more attractive and managed by the Suwannee River Water Mgt. District. Once you find the spring down dirt roads, you will see two limestone bridges forming two shallow pools. The flow creates a wade-able 250-foot run to the Suwannee and tumbles into the river in a 4-foot waterfall. It is a great place for swimming or for a picnic with or without children.

The other area springs take a bit more searching. After getting directions from the dive shop, head for Running Springs in the farmland beyond Peacock. You’ll pass Cow Spring along the way. Cow is a clear-blue spring about 25 feet deep and set in heavy woods, brooding quietly amidst its limestone boulders. Linked to the Peacock cave system, Cow is owned by the Speleological Section of the U.S. Cave Diving Society and is open to the public.

200 yards away and on the Suwannee itself is Running Springs. The main pool is breathtaking in its pristine beauty. Dozens of small vents create a circular swimming and wading area about 30 feet across at the bottom of a steep bank. A fallen tree makes a natural bridge over the spring, which has a powerful waterfall into the river. Water seems to come up from everywhere, and the snorkeler will never tire of the underwater sights. Just past the rope swing nearby is Running Spring #2, which creates a pretty run that is great for wading. Running is entirely shaded, so it needs to be a warm day or you will quickly be chilled.

Bathtub can only be accessed from the river--you will need directions from the locals--but it is simply the prettiest little spring ever, with sparkling azure water forming a 12-foot-wide natural pool that is the perfect cool tub. You may hear the legend of the drowned drunk when you visit.

You have to look a bit to find these diamonds in the rough country that surrounds them. By their nature, springs are down and away, hidden by trees and sloping land, and many are unmarked. They make you work to find them, but then reward you by uplifting all their secrets and beauty. The next time you’re traveling along U.S. 27, turn north at Mayo, cross the trestle bridge over the Suwannee and spend some time in spring central.
 
 

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd Magnitude (est.)
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—very unspoiled
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—river only
Facilities—none
Safety—fair
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Quick Directions
On the west bank of the Suwannee River about 1.5 miles east of the hamlet of Day.

Full Directions
Put in boat or canoe at either Charles Spring or Allen Mill Pond Spring boat ramps. Go upriver 2-2.5 miles and look for spring in a cut of the berm on the left (west bank).

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 is small and may be hard to spot when the river is high or even at normal levels.  On the date of visit (early 2000), the river was more than six feet below normal and the spring flow poured into the river over a limestone shelf. The spring flows from a boulder-strewn limestone bank/grotto.  The spring creates a cut in the natural river levee, which makes it stand out on this stretch of river.  Flow was evident, but no vent was clearly visible amidst the limestone boulders and fallen limbs, and the spring had no real pool.  The run is about 75 feet and was littered with garbage on the date of visit.  The flow was estimated to be about 10 gallons per second.

Use/Access

A house was visible on the land above the spring, but the site was not posted. The trash on the site suggests it is used for recreation and/or as a hangout.

Personal Impressions

The spring would likely appear very different in times of higher water. It was not attractive on the date of visit. The authors were actually searching (unsuccessfully) for another spring when they spotted Cork.

Nearby Springs

• Allen Mill Pond
• Hidden Spring
• Charles Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Lafayette Blue Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd Magnitude (est.)
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—unspoiled
Swimming—unknown
Protection—unknown
Crowds—small to none
Access—by river and road
Facilities—none
Safety—fair
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
Put in boat or canoe at either Charles Spring or Allen Mill Pond Spring boat ramps. Go upriver 1-2 miles and look for mouth of spring run on the right (east bank).  Incomplete driving directions provided by former visitor who had not been to the site in several years:  From the flashing light in Luraville, drive north on State Road 51 about four miles and then turn left at the gas station onto County Road 252, also called Charles Spring Road or 152nd Street. Go almost four miles and the paved road will bend sharply to the left.   (Here the directions become less clear.)  "If the road parallel to the river that Charles is on kept going north, the overgrown two-rut road to Hidden would be on your left (heading north) about a mile before the road takes a 90 to the left toward the river.  Hidden is right off the river" (Mertz--e-mail communication, December 14, 2002).

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 authors have not been to this spring and so rely on a description provided by someone who formerly lived in the area and freqented the site:

Hidden is right off the river with a "run" of maybe 6 feet (mostly just a dam built to hold in the spring water.)  It is maybe 20 feet wide and 30 feet across from river to woods.  The depth varies but it was almost always beautiful whenever we would visit it.  (Mertz--e-mail communication, December 14, 2002)

Use/Access
From the Mertz e-mail communication:

You used to be able to drive a small car or pickup back to it, but I think a big tree fell and now you have stop part way and walk the rest (December 14, 2002).

Not worth diving or looking for "treasures," but a very nice place to feel special and secluded.  Once you find it, it seems like it has been hiding, waiting for you (Mertz--e-mail communication, December 14, 2002).

Nearby Springs

• Allen Mill Pond
• Charles Spring
• Cork Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Lafayette Blue Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—excellent
How Pristine?—parking area, steps, and some cleared land around spring and run
Swimming—fair to good
Protection—excellent
Crowds—visited mostly on weekends
Access—very good
Facilities—boat ramp
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Directions
From the flashing light in Luraville, drive north on State Road 51 about four miles and then turn left at the gas station onto County Road 252, also called Charles Spring Road (and 152nd Street). Go almost four miles and the paved road will bend sharply to the left. The sign will say Dowling Park. Instead of turning, go straight ahead on the dirt road, which will curve around left for 1.1 miles until you see a stop sign, seemingly out of place. Then you will cross another dirt road into the narrow entrance to Charles Spring. There is no sign.

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
Charles Spring has two limestone bridges, creating two pools at its head and a shallow run of about 250 feet to the Suwannee. The pools can be green, blue, or clear depending on rain and light conditions and water levels. The spring vent appears to be under one of the limestone bridges, and the vent is not readily visible. The run is very clear and flows over and through gnarled cypress roots and over rocks where the run meets the river. At normal water levels, the run tumbles about four feet into the river. The run ranges from 40 feet wide near the limestone bridges to about 12 feet wide near the river and is from 1-4 feet deep. In times of drought, the run can dry up completely.

When JF visited the spring in January 2004, he was struck by the large amounts of algae growing in the run; this algae has not historically been in the run in such profusion--nearly the entire run was covered in long green strips--and is the result of elevated levels of nitrate flowing from the spring.

Use/Access

• The site is a Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) conservation area and includes 327 acres and over a mile of river frontage.
• Trails lead to bluffs overlooking the Suwannee. A particularly nice view is from the trail on the downstream side of the run, looking down upon the little "waterfall" at the mouth of the run.
• The south end of the tract has a boat ramp, and the boat ramp for Allen Mill Pond is visible from the mouth of the run.
• According to SRWMD (Johnson & Faircloth, 1996, p. 48) there is another spring on the tract called Iron Spring as well as several sinkholes, a slough, and a floodplain. Few outsiders know about the spring.

Local Springiana
Historical accounts suggest that the early Spanish Conquistadors crossed the Suwannee at this site, following an Indian trail. A Spanish mission, San Juan de Guacara, was built near the spring. In the 19^th century, settlers (including Ruben Charles) built on the site and ran a ferry operation across the river. After Charles died in 1842, his wife ran the ferry for ten more years, until she was shot and killed on her front porch (Springs of the Suwannee, SRWMD, no date).

Personal Impressions
Charles is a very attractive if somewhat remote spring that makes for a great picnic, wading, and canoeing site.  The rising nitrate levels, which are common in all the springs in this region, are causing huge and disgusting amounts of algae growth that significantly (and for the forseeable future) mar and degrade the spring.

Nearby Springs

• Flynn Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Hidden Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Lafayette Blue Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—outstanding
How Pristine?—very pristine; little evidence of past use as mill, campground, and homestead
Swimming—no
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—very good
Crowds—none
Access—good
Facilities—none
Safety—good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Full Directions
From Mayo, travel northwest on U.S. 27/SR 20 for 3-4 miles. Turn right onto Highway 251B and proceed about three miles to tract entrance. Turning right at the sign (also at the house of the tract caretaker) will lead down a dirt road to the lower end of the spring run. The spring is further north on 251B. Look for roped-off entrance on the right just after the paved road ends. Walk into the entrance, turn left, walk about 75 yards. Then at crossroad at small building, turn right onto trail. Then take the first left (after a sinkhole on the left) and walk down 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
The spring lies in a low swampy karst area that is pockmarked with sinkholes and surface limestone. The area around the spring is wooded floodplain, with cypress and hardwood trees in abundance and dense vegetation in the summer. The first and main vent is at the head of the elongated pool and is a canoe-shaped opening in the limestone with a gentle boil. It is 4-6 feet deep, about 3 feet wide, and 9 feet long.

The spring pool or first part of the run—which ends in a 90-degree turn where there is a small dam that is the remnant of a 19^th century corn mill—is S-shaped and approximately 175 feet long. It is shallow and the water is clear. The run continues after the dam for about 1,000 yards to the Suwannee and is from 1-3 feet deep. The authors found a second vent near the head vent, but not three vents as described in Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 198).

Use/Access

• The site is managed by the Suwannee River Water Management District and offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing as well as 1.6 miles of river frontage.
• The protected area also includes upland pine forest, hardwood forest, bottomland forest, and swamp that serve as habitat for bobcat, beaver, turkey, fox, quail, and wild hogs ("Allen Mill Pond," SRWMD flyer, n.d.).
• It might be possible to canoe up the run to the spring when the river is above normal, but the run is shallow and obstructed at other times.
• As the winter and summer photographs of the spring suggest, the area surrounding Allen Mill Pond is heavily overgrown in summer, making access and viewing difficult and less safe.

• The spring has a rich history. It was the site of a corn mill built in 1855, a settlement, a ferry concession, a trading post, a sand mining operation, and a campground. Evidence of these activities is almost completely gone, and the area has a very wild character.
• In an historical footnote, Louis Moseley, a 19^th century landowner, sheltered Confederate Secretary of War John Breckenridge at the site of the spring in 1865 after Lee’s surrender to Grant. Breckenridge was fleeing Federal troops and trying to divert their attention from the simultaneous flight of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Breckenridge would ultimately make good his escape all the way to Cuba and exile, while Davis was captured in south Georgia and imprisoned for two years (Johnson & Faircloth, 1996, p. 50, and Foote, p. 1010).

Nearby Springs

• Flynn Spring
• Charles Spring
• Hidden Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Lafayette Blue Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—3^rd magnitude to no flow
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—completely unspoiled
Swimming—no
Protection—private, unknown
Crowds—none
Access—private
Facilities—none
Safety—N/A
Scuba—no
Cost—N/A

Full Directions
About 1 mile upriver from the boat landing at Lafayette Blue Spring or 1.5 miles downriver from the Allen Mill Pond or Charles Spring boat ramps on the east side of the Suwannee River. Look for a small break in the river berm just upriver from a brown house on stilts. In time of normal or high river levels, water would be flowing from the spring through the outlet. In times of drought, the spring and run do not flow.

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 is in a circular depression that on the date of visit was much like an ancient, dry sinkhole in appearance, about 25 feet deep and perhaps 70 feet across at the top. The vent is about 60 feet from the water and the cut through the natural river berm opens directly into the spring depression. When visited by the authors in winter 2000, the spring and its run were completely dry and had been for several months as evidenced by leaf build-up on the ground. A hole in the center of the depression contained perhaps of gallon of visible water as well as some trash.

Use/Access
On private property although not signposted. No apparent use.

Personal Impressions
The authors had wanted to see Thomas for several years and had visited nearly every spring around it. Discovering that weather conditions had rendered Thomas a dry crater was, to put it mildly, something of a letdown. They had been paddling for hours and endured a soaking from a sudden thundershower. They stoutly declared afterwards, however, that a bad spring day was better than a good day doing almost anything else!

Nearby Springs

• Flynn Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Hidden Spring
• Charles Spring
• Lafayette Blue Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—1^st magnitude
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—developed swim/recreation/camping area; steps to spring; beach areas
Swimming—fine
Protection—very good
Crowds—heavy on summer weekends
Access—fine
Facilities—very good
Safety—good
Scuba—yes
Cost—$1 per person

Directions
From Mayo, travel northwest on U.S. 27/SR 20 for 3-4 miles. Turn right onto Highway 251B (look for sign for the spring), go about two miles, and then turn right (east) at the sign for Blue Springs. Follow dirt road to the entrance.

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
Separating the spring pool and its run is a natural limestone bridge that you can walk over (unless the river is high) or swim under. The bridge is about 30 feet across and 12 feet wide. The water is clear but has a greenish tint most of the time and is canopied, making it difficult to see to the bottom of the 35-foot pool. The pool has sheer limestone walls. Upwelling water is evident in the main pool, which is oval and about 45 by 80 feet. The run on the other side of the limestone bridge is about 75 feet and cascades into the Suwannee with a steady roar. Despite the stairs leading to the spring, the area is heavily eroded from human use.

The spring itself is surrounded on three sides with steep bluffs with a wooden stairway on two sides. Nearby are two large spring-sinks or karst windows, Yana and Snake. Just as you enter the park, turn to the right and walk through the opening in the fence to a long and narrow spring-sink that bends at a 90-degree angle. This is Snake Sink. A path leads around it to Yana Sink, which is more oval-shaped. Both are similar to Blue Spring in appearance, as they are countersunk from the surrounding surface about 25 feet and have steep sides. Several smaller sinks are nearby. A tunnel connects Yana and Snake. Both sinks also have rope swings. It is clear that water flows from Yana to Snake and thence to Blue.

Use/Access

• The springs are located within a county park with swimming, trails, a boat ramp, camping area, a camp store, picnic tables, a play area, and bathrooms. The area is popular with locals who can be rowdy on weekends.
• The camping area is along the river downriver from the spring and has water and electric hook-ups.
• Although the site supposedly charges admission, the authors have never had to pay to get in.
• Nearby sinks include Bobcat, Stevens, and Skyles.

Nearby Springs

• Flynn Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Hidden Spring
• Charles Spring
• Thomas Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—fair-good
How Pristine?—sandbag wall and bars separate pool and river; land partially cleared behind spring
Swimming—fair—water often shallow
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—good to spring—canoe only; access into spring blocked
Facilities—none

Quick Directions
One mile upriver of Highway 51 bridge on south side of Suwannee River.

Full Directions
From intersection of U.S. 27 and State Road 51 in Mayo, drive north on SR 51 for 3 miles to suspension bridge over Suwannee River.  Turn right (east) into public park at the bridge, which has a boat ramp.  Paddle upriver about 1 mile to spring on the left (south) side of the river.

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 is adjacent to the Suwannee River and forms a roughly oval pool along its bank.  One date of visit (Feb. 2002—a time of low water conditions), the pool was about 35 by 50 feet in diameter.  Water appeared to flow from the base of two low (2-3 foot) limestone ledges at the back (SE and SW) ends of the pool.  The depth of the pool was generally about 1 foot, and perhaps 2 feet deep at the flow points.  The water was clear and had a greenish tint.  The bottom of the pool was sandy, with some algae present.  Rising river levels would flood the spring basin.

The pool has no run, but opens (or once opened) directly into the Suwannee River.  The owner of the land around the spring constructed a sandbag wall separating the spring from the river.  At its highest, there are 7 rows of hardened sandbags, and the wall is about 5 feet high.  In the center of the wall is an opening (about 4x4x4 feet) to allow water out, but with several iron bars to prevent canoe access.  Land slopes or rolls up around the spring on three sides to heights of up to 15 feet, and the land is cleared of undergrowth.

Use/Access

• The wall appears to be designed primarily to deny water access-one could canoe directly into the pool were the wall and bars not there.  No trespassing signs dot the trees behind the spring.  The spring pool is probably used as a swimming/wading pool by the adjacent landowner.  The wall probably also raises the water level in the pool slightly.  No other structures could be seen from the river/spring edge.
• To canoe to the spring, one must pass through a rocky area with shallows and (at times of low water) rapids.  On date of visit in February 2002, JF and RB were unable to paddle through the rapids and had to drag the canoe through the shallows.

Personal Impressions
The spring and pool are moderately attractive.  The sandbag wall and grate are more than an affront to public access; they are singularly ugly and a scar on the spring.

Nearby Springs

• Telford
• LAF924971
• Luraville Springs
• Lafayette Blue Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Running Springs
• Cow Spring
• Peacock Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—2nd magnitude
Scenery—Excellent
How Pristine?—Very natural state
Swimming—very confined swimming, snorkeling, and wading
Protection—unknown
Crowds—small to none
Access—very good, boat only
Facilities—none
Safety—very good
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Quick Directions
¼ mile downriver of Highway 51 bridge, on the east side of the Suwannee River.

Full Directions
From intersection of U.S. 27 and State Road 51 in Mayo, drive north on SR 51 for 3 miles to suspension bridge over Suwannee River.  Turn right (east) into public park at the bridge, which has a boat ramp.  Paddle downriver about ¼ to spring on the right (east) side of the river. (Looking back upriver from the spring, the boat ramp and edge of the highway are visible, but not the bridge structure.)

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 a small cave under a limestone arch at the vertical bank/edge of the Suwannee River.  The arch/cave opening is about 12 feet wide and extended 2.5 feet above the water on date of visit in Feb. 2002.  Within the cave, there is a circular hole (about 6' by 5' wide) and an additional 3’ deep, sloping to the flow point on the right side as one looks into the cave.  Water flowing from the spring is clear, in contrast to the darker water in the adjacent river.  The bottom was sandy and rocky, and there were algae and other plants at the edge of the spring where it meets the river.  Rocks appear to have been placed at the edge of the spring, perhaps to mark the spot, serve as seats, or to reduce river intrusion into the spring.

The limestone bank rises vertically from the spring to the top of the natural levee at height of about 15 feet.  The area around the spring has a lot of exposed limestone.  Land above the spring is forested, and the spring is within sight of houses on both its left and right flanks.

Use/Access

• It appears that people wade, sit, swim, and snorkel in the spring on occasion.  The authors were told about it by the owner of a nearby dive shop in Luraville.
• In times of high or even normal river levels, the spring would be covered by the Suwannee River, very difficult to spot, and only accessible through skin- or scuba diving.

Nearby Springs

• Telford Spring
• Perry Spring
• Luraville Springs
• Lafayette Blue Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Running Springs
• Cow Spring
• Peacock Spring

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd magnitude
Scenery—good
How Pristine?—grossly eroded; parking area above spring
Swimming—very good
Protection—poor
Wildlife—unknown
Crowds—very heavy on weekends and during summer
Access—good
Facilities—none
Safety—fair to good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Quick Directions
Coming from Mayo to Luraville, turn right at caution light. Take first right on dirt road about 1 mile to the spring 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

Full Directions
From Mayo, drive north on State Road 51. After about 4 miles, you will cross the Suwannee River. The flashing light at Luraville is another 1-1.5 miles north, just past the agriculture weigh station. There is a country store on the left at the flashing light. Turn right at the light onto Luraville Road, then take the first right onto a somewhat bumpy sand road and proceed to the spring. Just before you reach the river, the road forks. The left fork goes to a boat ramp; the right fork to the spring.

Spring Description
The spring is set in a large depression about 120 feet from the Suwannee River and flows directly into the river. The spring is shaped like a lumpy, bent exclamation mark, with a circular opening in the limestone (5-6 feet in diameter—the exclamation point) at the back (NW) end, a small limestone bridge, and the run below to the river. Water flows from a cave beneath the limestone bridge, and the boil is visible on both sides of the bridge. The cave entrance is about 18 feet deep and is popular with divers.

The run is 20-30 feet wide and tapers rapidly from 15 feet deep near the limestone bridge to about one foot deep at the mouth of the run. Water is clear and the bottom is sandy with areas of exposed limestone. Small fish are visible in the deeper part of the pool. The area immediately surrounding the spring is heavily eroded and sandy. Sinkholes are nearby, and the area is framed by heavy forest and karst terrain.

Use/Access

• Telford is a very popular local hangout and is used heavily on weekends and during the summer. The land is privately owned, but the owner does not restrict access.  The state has approached the owner about selling the spring, but the owner has not expressed interest in doing so.
• Vendors work the site on weekends in the summer, selling boiled peanuts, drinks, and other items.
• There is a rope swing just a few feet upriver of the mouth of the run along the river.
• Dogs have free run on the site.
• Human traffic has caused extensive damage to the spring basin. Erosion has pushed great quantities of sand into the spring, undermined trees, and destroyed foliage. Garbage is abundant in the spring and parking areas, fires made to burn trash create charred areas, and the crowds can be rowdy.

Nearby Springs

• Peacock Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Orange Grove Spring
• Charles Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Cow Spring
• Running Springs
• Bathtub Spring
• Convict Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Perry Spring

• Challenge Sink
• Other Sinkholes in Peacock State Recreation Area

Summary of Features
Scale—unknown
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—very pristine
Swimming—fair
Protection—very good
Crowds—none
Access—boat only
Facilities—none
Safety—fair to poor
Scuba—unknown
Cost—free

Quick Directions
Just upriver from Telford on opposite side of Suwannee in the river itself.

Full Directions
From Mayo, drive north on State Road 51. After about 4 miles, you will reach the Suwannee River. On the right just before the bridge is a county park with a boat launch. Put in and go a couple of hundred yards upriver and look for the spring upwelling on the right side in the river at times of low water.

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 authors have been within a few yards of the spring but have not actually seen it. In winter 2000, a local resident told them of the spring and described it as being a short distance upriver from Telford, in the river, on the opposite side of Telford. The river bends in this area, meaning Telford is actually on the west side of the river and Hidden Spring on the east side. The spring is apparently a boil near the limestone edge/bank of the river and is only visible when the river is below normal. It is not described in any literature the authors have found.

Use/Access
The authors attempted to reach the spring via a rough path along the river, but encountered both sheer limestone and private property and gave up. They might have canoed up from the county park, but were worn out from earlier paddling.

Nearby Springs

• Peacock Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Orange Grove Spring
• Charles Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Cow Spring
• Running Springs
• Bathtub Spring
• Convict Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Perry Spring

• Challenge Sink
• Other Sinkholes in Peacock State Recreation Area

Summary of Features
Scale—4^th magnitude
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—completely unspoiled
Swimming—no
Protection—private
Crowds—none
Access—private
Facilities—none
Scuba—yes

Quick Directions
In the woods almost directly behind the dive shop in Luraville.

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

Full Directions
From Mayo, drive north on State Road 51. After about 4 miles, you will cross the Suwannee River. The flashing light at Luraville is another 1-1.5 miles north, just past the agriculture weigh station. There is a country store on the left at the flashing light. Turn right at the light onto Luraville Road and drive to the dive shop about ¼ mile on the right. The springs are on private property to the right and behind the dive shop. They are about 200 yards back or about 0.2 miles southeast of the junction of CR51 and Luraville Road.

Spring Description
The springs lie in a heavily forested area of secondary growth and flood plain.  The two springs are similar in appearance and consist of depressions of 10-15 deep at the bottom of limestone outcrops/overhangs of similar dimensions.  On the date of visit, neither spring was flowing, although both had small (a few feet in diameter) dark-water pools.  They looked like mud-holes. According to Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 371), the springs feed Irvine Slough when flowing.  The slough flows approximately 2 miles SE to the Suwannee River (p. 358).

Use/Access

• The springs are on private property, and the authors were guided to the site by the owner after asking and receiving permission. Trespass is not advised; the owners have large dogs.
• According to the dive shop owner, the unappealing openings lead to the huge Peacock underwater cavern system, which has been mapped for several miles underground.

Nearby Springs

• Peacock Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Orange Grove Spring
• Charles Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Cow Spring
• Running Springs
• Bathtub Spring
• Convict Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Perry Spring

• Challenge Sink
• Other Sinkholes in Peacock State Recreation Area

Summary of Features
Scale—4^th magnitude/no flow
Scenery—very good
How Pristine?—unspoiled
Swimming—no
Protection—unknown
Crowds—none
Access—very difficult, private property
Facilities—none
Safety—fair to poor
Scuba—no
Cost—free

Quick Directions
Three springs in the woods north of Luraville Road near the entrance to the Peacock Springs State Recreation Area.

Full Directions
From Mayo, drive north on State Road 51. After about 4 miles, you will cross the Suwannee River. The flashing light at Luraville is another 1-1.5 miles north, just past the agriculture weigh station. There is a country store on the left at the flashing light. Turn right at the light onto Luraville Road. Springs are 0.5-1 miles north of this road 2-3 miles east of the flashing light across the road from the entrance to the Peacock Springs State Recreation Area. See map above and good luck locating them.

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
Rosenau et al. (1977, p. 356-7, 373, 380) visited the springs and characterized them as overgrown mud holes with no apparent flow.  Their water was black, and two of them were covered with aquatic vegetation.  They are deep in the woods and well off the paved Luraville Road.

Use/Access

• JF was unable to locate the springs using the Rosenau map and directions. The owner of the nearby dive shop in Luraville did not know where they were and said he had never heard of them, even though they are only two miles from the dive shop.
• The springs sound similar in appearance to Luraville Springs, and they may, like those springs, connect to the vast underwater cave system that attracts divers to nearby Peacock Spring.
• It is assumed that the springs are on private property.

Nearby Springs

• Peacock Spring
• Bonnet Spring
• Orange Grove Spring
• Charles Spring
• Allen Mill Pond Spring
• Cow Spring
• Running Springs
• Bathtub Spring
• Convict Spring
• Thomas Spring
• Perry Spring

• Challenge Sink
• Other Sinkholes in Peacock State Recreation Area

Summary of Features
Scale—2^nd or 3^rd magnitude
Scenery—fine
How Pristine?—unspoiled
Swimming—not recommended
Protection—excellent
Wildlife—excellent
Crowds—very small
Access—fair to good
Facilities—none
Safety—fair to good
Scuba—yes
Cost—free

Quick Directions
In the west end of the Peacock Springs State Recreation Area about 1,000 feet from Luraville 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

Full Directions
From Mayo, drive north on State Road 51. After about 4 miles, you will cross the Suwannee River. The flashing light at Luraville is another 1-1.5 miles north, just past the agriculture weigh station. There is a country store on the left at the flashing light. Turn right at the light onto Luraville Road. Drive about 1.8 miles and look for State Recreation Area Boundary marker and gate on the right. Park, climb gate, and walk about 0.2 miles south to the spring.

Spring Description
The land drops abruptly away from the path and down about 15 feet to the spring and its pool. The spring is in an area of deep hardwood forest and cypress trees. The pool is about 75 feet wide and 150 long before tapering into its run and slough. There is exposed limestone in the spring pool. The spring forms the headwaters of Peacock Slough, which runs about 0.2 miles before joining with the flow from Peacock, and then flows through swamp to the Suwannee River about 1.5 miles to the south. On the dates of visit, the water in the spring was very brown. According to Rosenau et al (1977, p. 357-8), the pool is up to 30 feet deep at the vent and about 4 feet deep otherwise. Several alligators were in the pool on the dates RB and JF visited, and herons were observed.

Use/Access

• Part of the Peacock Springs State Recreation Area. Bonnet is not accessed from the main entrance but rather from