Should you go?
Jackson Blue is the head of Merritt's Mill Pond, a four-and-a-half-mile spring-fed lake outside Marianna that's a Panhandle institution — swimming and a rope swing at the spring, paddling and fishing the length of the pond, and a series of caves along its edges that draw serious divers.
The spring pumps first-magnitude flow into water so clear the pond bottom stays visible far from shore.
Visiting
Around $5 per person as a Jackson County park (verify current rates), with seasonal hours — typically open for swimming in the summer months only. Cave diving requires certification and a separate permit process through the county.
When to go
Summer, when the swim area is open. The mill pond paddles well year-round even when swimming is closed.
Local tips
Confirm the season before driving; Jackson Blue's swim area is not open year-round. Paddle the mill pond even if the swim area is closed.
Rules & restrictions
The swim area operates seasonally — verify before driving. Cave diving requires certification and county permitting.
Good to know
Dogs: Verify. Season: Swim area seasonal (summer).
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic areas, boat ramp, swim area with rope swing, and parking. Seasonal staffing.
Wildlife you may see
Bass fishing is serious business on the mill pond. Turtles, alligators at the edges, ospreys, and wading birds throughout.
History & background
Merritt's Mill Pond was created by damming the spring run in the 1800s to power a mill; the resulting lake became a Panhandle recreation staple.
Map & directions
FAQs
Is Jackson Blue open year-round?
No u2014 the swimming area operates seasonally, typically summer. Verify current Jackson County hours before visiting.
Can you cave dive at Jackson Blue?
Yes, for certified cave divers u2014 the Merritt's Mill Pond caves are well known, though access is permitted through Jackson County.
How big is Merritt's Mill Pond?
Roughly four and a half miles long, fed by Jackson Blue Spring, and paddleable end to end.
Visitor photos
See this week’s shots: Instagram #jacksonbluespring · TikTok #jacksonblue
Great for: Family-Friendly · Kayaking · Scuba Diving · Snorkeling · Swimming
