Tubing down the Ichetucknee River
As most Floridians know, springs are a wonderful place to get some relief from the summer heat. The crystal clear water bubbling up from the underground limestone remains at a constant temperature of about 68-73 degrees F. After a few minutes immersed in the clear cool water you feel almost cold – even on a sweltering, 95° F day.
The clear blue waters of Florida’s springs are alive with fish, turtles and plants. Snorklers can watch bluegill, long nose gar, shiners, sunfish, shrimp as well as musk turtles, softshell turtles and snapping turtles. You can also see saltwater species such as gray snapper, mullet, Crevalle Jack, and Sheepshead, especially in the large springs close to the sea like those around Crystal River.
So, whether it is swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, cave diving, or just looking at fish, Florida’s springs offer something for everyone. They are unique. Once you have gazed through their cold crystal clear waters you will agree – there is nothing quite like them.
Many of the large springs are owned by the State of Florida and have become the focal point for State parks. Homosassa Springs, Ichneetucknee Springs, and Wakulla Springs are all State parks. Others are privately owned and have been developed into resorts; Silver Springs and Ginnie Springs are two of the best known privately operated springs.
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