Experiences & Amenities
Experiences
Fishing is permitted from the river bank or river dock. Fishing is not permitted in the swimming area.
- All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season.
- A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website, Fishing in Florida.
Explore the park in a new and challenging way. Experienced Geocachers have requested permission to hide caches containing trinkets, treasures or information in various places around the park. Please check the Geocaching website for the most current information and clues to locate these caches.
Reunions and gatherings are enjoyable at Troy Spring. The focal point of the park is picturesque Troy Spring, which provides a nice backdrop for organized activities. The shaded picnic area has tables and grills, perfect for meals.
- Please call for assistance to help organize your special event at 386-935-4835.
A 70-foot-deep spring is ideal for open water diving and training. A diver rinse station and outdoor shower are available near the restroom facility. A long, paved, switchback ramp provides access to the spring dock. Some divers find that a wagon or handcart is helpful to transport gear to and from the spring.
For everyone's safety, these rules must be followed:
- All divers must show proof of certification before diving or leave dive certifications on the dashboard of the vehicle.
- All diving is open water only.
- Solo diving is prohibited.
- Dives must be completed one hour before sunset.
- Open water divers may not carry lights.
- Instructors conducting a class must have a commercial dive permit.
- Scooters, DPVs or ATVs are prohibited.
There is a lot to see while snorkeling at Troy Spring State Park! See the depths of the 70-foot spring when the sun is overhead, or swim out toward the river in the spring run to see a multitude of fish and turtles.
You will also get a close look at the remains of the steamship Madison, which was intentionally sunk during the Civil War to keep it out of Union hands. While many boards and timbers were salvaged by early settlers, the bottom ribs of the boat are still visible.
- Swim at your own risk. No lifeguard on duty.
The focal point of the park is picturesque Troy Spring. Surrounded by high ground, the view looking down into the clear spring water is breathtaking, showcasing unique karst rock formations.
The shaded picnic area has tables and grills, perfect for your reception.
- Please call for assistance to help create your special day at 386-935-4835.
Amenities
The historic site of what remains of the steamship Madison lies within the spring run. In the mid-1850s, Captain James Tucker had the ship built with a very shallow draft especially intended for the frequently changing water levels of the Suwannee River. For many years, the ship served as a floating mail service and trading post.
In 1861, at the beginning of the Civil War, it was used by the Confederate forces as a privateer and makeshift gunboat.
In 1863, it was scuttled in the spring, upon the order of its owner, to prevent it from getting into the wrong hands.
Today, some of the metal spikes and the remnant keel rib timbers that were part of its hull can be seen below the spring surface.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Troy Spring State Park. They must be kept on a 6-foot handheld leash at all times and cannot be left unattended for more than 30 minutes.
- Dogs are not permitted in the spring or in buildings. Service animals are allowed in all areas of the park.
- See our Pet Policy.