Poe Springs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Poe Springs Park |
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Poe Springs, October 2004
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| Type | County Park |
| Location | 28800 NW 182nd Ave, High Springs, FL 32643 |
| Area | 202 acres (0.82 km2) |
| Operated by | Alachua County Parks and Recreation |
| Website | https://alachuacounty.us/Depts/pcl/Pages/Details.aspx?park=Poe%20Springs%20Park |
Poe Springs is a beautiful natural spring located about 3 miles (5 km) west of High Springs, Florida. It's part of Poe Springs Park, a large area covering 202 acres (about 82 hectares). The spring itself is a bit of a walk from the main park entrance, requiring a 0.3-mile (0.5 km) hike. The water in the spring stays at a cool 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) all year round.
Poe Springs Park is managed by Alachua County Parks and Recreation. It's the only county park in the area where you can go swimming! Many visitors also enjoy snorkeling in the clear spring water. However, scuba diving is not allowed here.
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Discover Poe Springs Park
Poe Springs Park is a great place to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities. The park offers a unique chance to experience a natural Florida spring. It's a popular spot for families and friends looking for a refreshing swim or a peaceful walk.
What Makes Poe Springs Special?
Poe Springs is a powerful natural spring. It releases a huge amount of water every day, about 45 million gallons (170 million liters)! This water flows into the nearby Santa Fe River. The deepest part of the spring, called the vent, is about 25 feet (7.6 meters) deep. The constant flow of fresh, cool water makes it a perfect habitat for various plants and animals.
Fun Things to Do at Poe Springs
The main attraction at Poe Springs Park is the spring itself. It's a fantastic spot for swimming, especially on a hot Florida day. The clear water makes it easy to see fish and other underwater life, which is why snorkeling is also a favorite activity. Remember, while swimming and snorkeling are welcome, scuba diving is not permitted for safety reasons.
History and Care of the Park
Before Alachua County took over Poe Springs, the area was not well cared for. The spring was showing signs of erosion, meaning the land around it was wearing away. The county worked to protect and restore the spring and the park.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma caused damage to the park, forcing it to close temporarily. But after repairs, Poe Springs Park proudly reopened in May 2018, ready for visitors to enjoy once again. The park is now well-maintained, ensuring everyone can have a safe and fun experience.
Planning Your Visit
Poe Springs Park is located at 28800 NW 182nd Ave, High Springs, FL 32643. There is a small fee to enter the park, which is $5.00 per car. This fee helps the county maintain the park and keep it beautiful for everyone. Make sure to check the official Alachua County Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any special notices before you visit.
