Swimming Holes and Springs
Swimming
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Florida's newest state park: a clear blue spring with a shallow sandy run down to the Santa Fe River, good for a first snorkel.
Ages
3–18+
Cost
Paid
Duration
~3h
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
On the water
Gilchrist Blue only became a state park in 2017, and it still feels less discovered than the springs nearer Orlando. The main boil is deep and blue, but the run leading from it to the Santa Fe is knee-to-waist deep over white sand - the ideal place to put a mask on a child for the first time, because they can stand up whenever they want to. Smaller satellite springs sit along the boardwalk. Capacity is limited and the gate closes when the lot fills, which on a hot Saturday can be before eleven.
Pricing
$6 per vehicle (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park cost?
- Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park charges admission. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What ages is Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park good for?
- Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is best for kids ages 3 to 18+.
- Is Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park stroller friendly?
- No, Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
- How hard is Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What should I bring to Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
- Mask and snorkel, water shoes, towels, picnic
- How long does Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
- When is the best time to visit Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
- Weekday mornings; the park closes when the parking lot fills.