Restore your sense of adventure exploring Gilchrist County’s natural springs, majestic rivers, and rich outdoor experiences.
Bicycling
This 32 mile paved “green zone” links diverse wildlife watching areas, a lovely natural swimming spring, and the wild and historic Suwannee River from trailheads inside the rural North Florida communities of Cross City, Old Town, Fanning Springs, Trenton and Chiefland. Trail users may want to start off in Trenton at the Historic Train Depot […]
Camping and RV
Blue Springs Campground This all-natural camping area along the Santa Fe River allows visitors to interact with wild life and to enjoy shaded sites under majestic oak trees throughout the park. It offers primitive and full hookups. Bring your tent or RV and relax around our beautiful springs and bathhouse (sorry, no pets allowed). For […]
Destinations
Blue Springs This spring is known for its exceptionally clear water and stunning underwater scenery, making it popular with underwater photographers. Though scuba diving is not allowed, it’s a delightful spot for swimming and snorkeling. A playground, picnic area, camping/RV site, bathhouse and concession store are just some of the accommodations that await visitors. Ginnie […]
Diving and Snorkeling
Blue Springs Diving is not permitted at this cluster known as Blue Springs, but a mask and snorkel are all that is required for a good look at the fish and swaying plant life that inhabit the 20-foot deep pool. Fanning Springs Snorkelers and swimmers can enjoy the 20-foot deep spring basin, which is fed […]
Freshwater Fishing
Santa Fe River Try bank fishing at Ira Bea Oasis Road off CR 138 and in Ginnie Springs. Both Suwannee bass and largemouth bass offer excellent fishing opportunities. A large population of redbreast sunfish provides the best fishing the river has to offer. Try fishing for this species near fallen trees or stumps. Suwannee River […]
Hiking & Horseback Riding
Fanning Springs State Park This mile-long nature trail takes hikers through an upland mixed forest and floodplain swamp. Along the trail are several large sinkholes. Hart Springs Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll, on the half-mile boardwalk, that takes them down the spring run and out along the famous Suwannee River. Benches are provided for […]
Hunting
The Gilchrist Club Offers membership hunting to the avid sportsman. Located on 23,000 acres, off SR47, you can find in this place several types of game, such as deer, hogs, turkey and quail. The club is open year-round for its members convenience. For hunting regulations, you can contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission […]
Paddling
Santa Fe River Canoe Trail This trail passes through hardwood hammocks and river swamps and past numerous springs. It’s perfect for beginners, because the river has slow current and gentle curves. The 26-mile long trail begins just below River Rise Preserve and ends about three miles upstream of the confluence of the Santa Fe and […]
Wildlife Watching
Fanning Springs State Park Animals typically observed in the mixed forest community include white-tailed deer, gray squirrel, red-shouldered hawk, pileated woodpecker, barred owl and a variety of snakes. The less densely wooded festival area provides open spaces for several gopher tortoises. Manatees may enter the spring run during cooler weather. Hart Springs County Park Many […]