Big Oak Loop and Suwanee River State Park Trail

This natural spring is easily one of the best hidden gems in Florida. The pool of water is crystal clear for swimming, scuba-diving, and jumping in from off on a cliff to the side. The water is also about 70 degrees - a perfect compliment to the hot, humid climate of Florida. A rip current in the shallower rocky area leads to a river as well as more places to lay out in the sun. Since it's a st...

From the Bell Springs Trailhead, take the unmarked access road into the forest, where it meets with Florida Trail (blue blazes). Hop onto the Florida Trail. You will pass a pool created by Bell Springs, then turn right at the fork. The terrain becomes a bit trickier as you head into the forest, though the views are good. In 1.1 miles you will reach Robinson Branch Falls, and after this a campsi...

Nestled in the shallow water of the spring run are the remains of the Civil War-era steamboat Madison which was scuttled in 1863 to keep it from being captured. A hidden gem in north-central Florida, Troy Spring has restrooms, an accessible walkway, picnic tables, an interpretive nature trail and a riverside dock for canoeists and boaters on the Suwannee River. Only open-water scuba diving is p...

At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, there are 2 main entrances - to get to Blue Hole (aka Jug Hole), go to the NORTH entrance. This is also where the main headspring is. If you accidentally go to the south entrance, you are only a few miles away, don't worry! Ask for directions at the guard shack. You pay a small state park entrance fee then follow the road to the parking lot. During the busy su...

This spot is easy to find. Just off the GA highway 122 is the Banks Lake Wildlife Refuge. You can either bring your own kayak/canoe or rent one for a few dollars.The adventure begins once you're in the water. Paddle out of the small loading dock area and the entire lake is in front of you. Pick a direction and go! Explore the pockets of cypress trees that are scattered all over the lake. Paddle...

Nestled on the banks of the Santa Fe River, at the end of a long country road, six springs add a burst of clear water to the dark, winding river. These springs make up a park called "Ginnie Springs," a popular place for both locals and international visitors - and it's not just the clear water and river tubing that attract people in the masses. Now for the "advanced" skill level part: There is...