Natural North Florida Springs–Cool in Summer, Warm in Winter

Posted on by Tommy Thompson
Madison Blue Springs pumps constant 72-degree water into the Withlacoochee River, northeast of Madison, FL
Madison Blue Springs pumps constant 72-degree water into the Withlacoochee River, northeast of Madison, FL

Our Natural North Florida counties (Alachua, Gilchrist, Levy, Dixie, Taylor, Madison, Jefferson, Union, Lafayette and Wakulla) have the largest concentration of natural freshwater springs in the world.  And, when the weather gets hot, they’re the perfect place to cool off.  However, visitors and residents flock to the springs, and their contant 72-degree water temperatures, when the weather gets cold.  They’re not like “bath water” and you might want to bring a light wetsuit, but they’re refreshing nevertheless.

Swimmers and snorkelers can enjoy the springs at several of our famous State Parks. Lafayette Blue, Manatee, Fanning and Wakulla springs are our largest, but even the smaller springs like Convict, Levy Blue, Auctilla or Gornto are fun to visit.  And if you’re itchin’ for a river trip, take a boat down the historic Suwannee River, where you’ll encounter many unnamed springs dotting the shoreline.

Levy County's Devils Den is a private spring catering mostly to snorkelers and SCUBA divers. But it's warm, and the wind doesn't blow when you're 60-feet below the surface of the surrounding area!
Levy County’s Devils Den is a private spring catering mostly to snorkelers and SCUBA divers. But it’s 72-degree water seems relatively warm on cold days.  And the wind doesn’t blow when you’re 60-feet below the surface of the surrounding area!

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