Ichetucknee Springs State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ichetucknee Springs State Park |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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Headspring
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 Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Location in Florida
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Columbia, Florida, USA |
| Nearest city | Fort White, Florida |
| Area | 2,241 acres (9.07 km2) |
| Governing body | Florida Department of Environmental Protection |
| Designated: | October 1971 |
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a beautiful Florida State Park and a special place called a National Natural Landmark. It covers about 2,241 acres (907 km2) and is located near Fort White, Florida. The park's main feature is the Ichetucknee River, which is about 6 miles (10 km) long.
This clear river flows through shady forests and wet areas before joining the Santa Fe River. The park has thick forests and rocky areas made of limestone. The Ichetucknee River gets its water from natural springs. These springs bubble up from an underground water source called an aquifer. The state of Florida bought this land in 1970 to protect its amazing natural beauty.
Contents
Park History
Early Mining
Before the 1900s, people started looking for a mineral called phosphate here. They used mules and wheelbarrows to dig it out of the ground. Later, they used bigger machines like steam shovels. These early mining methods were not as damaging to the land as some modern ways.
The Loncala Years
In the 1950s and 1960s, a company called Loncala Phosphate owned the land around Ichetucknee Springs. During this time, people discovered how fun it was to float down the river in inner tubes. This became a popular summer activity, especially for college students.
In 1970, Loncala sold the land to the state of Florida. They wanted to make sure the river and springs were protected forever. After the park was cleaned up and new facilities were built, the river and springs were named a National Natural Landmark in 1972.
Park Animals
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is home to many different animals. You might spot white-tailed deer, raccoons, and wild turkeys. Birds like wood ducks and great blue herons also live here.
The river is full of fish and other water creatures. You can see turtles, water snakes, and even American alligators. North American river otters swim in the water, and sometimes West Indian manatees visit during the colder winter months. Smaller creatures like crayfish, bream, bluegill, largemouth bass, alligator gar, mullet, catfish, and different kinds of minnows also live in the river.
Fun Activities
One of the most popular things to do at Ichetucknee Springs State Park is floating down the river in an inner tube. This is a favorite activity from late May to early September. The water in the river is incredibly clear because it comes from springs. This makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving.
The river's water stays at a cool 72 °F (22 °C) all year round. This makes it a refreshing escape from the hot Florida weather. You can rent tubes, rafts, and snorkeling or diving gear from shops outside the park.
Tubing Seasons
Tubing from the North entrance is open from the Friday before Memorial Day until the day after Labor Day. It closes during the rest of the year.
At the South entrance, a tram service helps people get around from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. You can drop off your rented tubes and rafts at the end of your trip. The park is a popular spot for students and teachers from the nearby University of Florida to visit on weekends.
The park also has restrooms, changing rooms, a snack bar, nature trails, and picnic areas with grills.
Park Archaeology
A very old Spanish mission site from the 1600s has been found in the park. It is located near a small stream that connects Fig Springs to the Ichetucknee River. This site is about one mile (1.6 km) downstream from where the river begins.
Experts believe this mission might have been called San Martín de Timucua. It was active in the first half of the 17th century. There were plans to rebuild the mission and open it for visitors to learn about its history, but these plans were later changed.
Park Hours
Ichetucknee Springs State Park opens every day of the year at 8 a.m., even on holidays. The park gates close at sunset, and the exact times are posted at the ranger stations. The Education and Exhibit Center is open from Thursday to Monday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Images for kids
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Blue Spring
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Blue Hole Trail pedestrian bridge viewed from the Head Spring Trail
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Children paddling down the Ichetucknee River
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Stones in the headspring
