Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park-Florida's Newest State Park Now Open!

Gilcchrist blue Springs State Park is the latest addition to Florida’s state park system. The 400-plus acre park was previously privately owned, and in 2018 it was sold to the state of Florida. Located just a short “run” from the Santa Fe River in Gilchrist County, the main spring is a second-magnitude vent pushing out about 44 million gallons of clear, 72-degree F, water a day. The main spring is suitable for swimmers of all ages, with a sand beach and a diving platform. A paddle craft launch is located just outside the spring, in the spring run. As this is one of the region’s best values, we advise arriving early. The park has strict limits on the number of visitors admitted each day.

The main spring is a popular destination for snorkelers.

A secondary spring, Naked Spring, is just a few hundred yards from the busier main spring. Paddlers must stay outside the rope barrier at both springs.

The shady grove at the park is perfect for family gatherings.

Paddlers, using rental or personal craft, can explore the 1/4-mile spring run from the main spring to the Santa Fe River.

Tube rentals and shuttles are available from local outfitters as well as from the concessionaire within the park. Kayak trips can be arranged from outfitters in High Springs (Adventure Outfitters, Rum 138 Outfitters, Canoe Outpost)

The park offers camping, primitive and R/V, but spaces have been limited during the initial (2018) opening phase . We advise booking early at the Reserve America Florida State Parks Booking Site

Physical Address

7450 NE 60th St
High Springs, FL 32643

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is located in Gilchrist County about 5 miles to the west of High Springs, FL off NW 182nd Ave (Hwy 236) in the north central part of the state along the Santa Fe River. The park is located 25 miles south of Lake City and about 20 miles to the northwest of Gainesville.

Phone Number

(386) 454-1369