Should you go?
Ichetucknee is the spring we recommend first to almost everyone. The 3.5-mile run down a crystal-clear river through untouched cypress forest is the single best tubing experience in Florida, fed by eight named springs that keep visibility glass-clear the entire float.
The honest catch: everyone knows it. Summer weekends are a capacity lottery, and the north-entrance tube launch closes when the park hits its daily limit — often before mid-morning. This is a plan-ahead spring, not an impulse stop.
Visiting
Rent tubes from the outfitters on US-27 before entering (roughly $10–15) or bring your own. June through Labor Day the full run launches from the north entrance with a tram return; off-season, only the shorter south-entrance runs operate. No coolers, food, or disposables on the river — rangers enforce it, and it is why the water stays this clear.
Local tips
Arrive before 9am on summer weekends or have a backup picked out — Gilchrist Blue is 25 minutes away. The head spring and Blue Hole are outstanding snorkeling before tube traffic picks up.
Map & directions
FAQs
What does Ichetucknee Springs cost?
Entry is $6 per vehicle (standard Florida state park rate). Tube rental from outfitters outside the park runs roughly $10u201315 extra. Verify current rates on the official state park page before you go.
What time does Ichetucknee reach capacity?
In summer, the park frequently reaches its daily visitor capacity by mid-morning u2014 often between 9:30 and 10:30am on Saturdays. Arrive at opening (8am) to be safe.
How cold is the water at Ichetucknee?
A constant 72u00b0F year-round, like nearly all Florida springs. It feels cold at first and perfect after two minutes.
Visitor photos
See this week's shots: Instagram #ichetuckneesprings · TikTok #ichetucknee
Great for: Family-Friendly · Kayaking · Snorkeling · Swimming · Tubing — in North Florida