Springs and Lakes

Make A Splash on the Water

Seventy-two degrees. That’s the temperature our spring waters stay 365 days a year. Chilly, but not too chilly — and oh so refreshing, especially in the summer months. In the winter months, there’s not as much swimming and tubing, but you’ll still enjoy kayaking down lazy, spring-fed rivers, and experiencing a different kind of chill. (One that might even require a light jacket.)

Florida’s Springlands has several named springs, a couple of which — Ichetucknee Springs and Rum Island Springs County Park — are renowned throughout the Southeast. Others are more remote and quiet. All of them are wonderful outdoor recreation spots that will enchant you with their scenery and provide you with an unforgettable nature experience.

Along with springs, Florida’s Springlands are also dotted with freshwater lakes. Some, like Lake Isabella, are part of scenic parks in Lake City, but others, such as Alligator Lake, can be found in lush green wooded areas with trails that are perfect for hiking or biking. Our lakes are perfect for boating and fishing. Anglers catch a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bream, and catfish. Thanks to our natural combination of springs and lakes, Lake City—Florida’s Springlands is perfect for anyone who loves to be out on the water.

Rum Island Spring and Park

Rum Island’s second magnitude spring forms a 200-meter swimming hole just north of Rum Island itself, filled with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. The County Park is a little slice of North Florida perfection, with picnic tables under the shade of trees and loads of space to relax by the Santa Fe River.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park’s 2,669 acres provide wonderful swimming and river activities, a haven for wildlife, and eight crystalline natural springs.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs State Park’s 2,669 acres provide wonderful swimming and river activities, a haven for wildlife, and eight crystalline natural springs.
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the jewel of Gilchrist County, a hugely popular vacation spot because of its Spring Run and the High Spring.

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the jewel of Gilchrist County, a hugely popular vacation spot because of its Spring Run and the High Spring.
Fanning Springs is located along the Suwannee River and is home to one of only 33 first magnitude springs in the state, producing 65 million gallons of water per day.

Fanning Springs Florida

Fanning Springs Florida

Fanning Springs is located along the Suwannee River and is home to one of only 33 first magnitude springs in the state, producing 65 million gallons of water per day.
With everything from underwater cave systems to beautiful clear springs, Ginnie Springs is known for everything from scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking, swimming and camping.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs

With everything from underwater cave systems to beautiful clear springs, Ginnie Springs is known for everything from scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking, swimming and camping.
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park is a world-famous spot for cave diving, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park is a world-famous spot for cave diving, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
Rum Island’s second magnitude spring forms a 200-meter swimming hole filled with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing.

Rum Island Spring and Park

Rum Island Spring and Park

Rum Island’s second magnitude spring forms a 200-meter swimming hole filled with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing.

Rum Island Spring and Park
Rum Island’s second magnitude spring forms a 200-meter swimming hole just north of Rum Island itself, filled with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing. The County Park is a little slice of North Florida perfection, with picnic tables under the shade of trees and loads of space to relax by the Santa Fe River.
Watertown Lake
Watertown Lake is a pristine 46-acre lake, full of local species of fish such as bass, blue gill, brim, and more. Watertown Lake features a boat ramp area, parking, and wonderful wildlife viewing. Great for the avid fisherman or a relaxing day on the lake.
Lake Desoto
Located in historic downtown Lake City, Lake Desoto has been a gathering place for locals and visitors for many years. Fishing, biking, walking, and picnicking are available here. In addition, a variety of different birds, waterfowl, fish, and other wildlife make this an ideal place for wildlife watching.
Lake Isabella
Located in the historic residential district of Lake City, this charming lake has been a hub of the area for many years. It’s an excellent spot for a picnic, or just sitting on the shoreline, taking in the view, getting some sun — or getting some shade under towering oak trees filled with Spanish moss.