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Experiences & Amenities

Back to Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

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Make a Reservation

Experiences

Camping
Camping

The park features 23 campsites: 16 sites for RV/tent camping (30 amp available) and seven tent-only camping.

  • For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
Geo-Seeking
Geo-Seeking

Geocaching is an outdoor game using hand-held global positioning systems (GPS) devices. It's effectively an inexpensive, interactive, high-tech treasure hunt that's a great way to learn geography. Participants use location coordinates to find caches. Some caches are easy to find; others are more difficult. The biggest reward is the thrill of the search and the discovery of a place where you have never been.

Geocaching should have minimal impact to the environment and conscientious land-use ethics should be followed.

  • Operation Recreation GeoTour
Hiking
Hiking
Large Tree at Gilchrist

The most significant ecological habitats within the park include the spring run stream and floodplain communities.

The main spring run is renowned for a diversity of wildlife species, including turtles, fish and invertebrates. 

Nature study and hiking are very popular at this park.

Paddling
Paddling

Paddling, snorkeling and swimming are all popular at the main springhead and spring run. 

Paddling at Gilchrist

  • Canoe and kayak rentals are available on-site by Anderson's Outdoor Adventures.
  • Please be advised there is no shuttle service provided at this time.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling

Snorkeling is available in designated areas.

Swimming
Swimming

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park offers swimming at the main spring only. The other springs are under restoration but are available for viewing.

Swimming at Gilchrist

Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

The most significant ecological habitats within the park include the spring run stream and floodplain communities. The main spring run is renowned for its diversity of wildlife species, including turtles, fish and invertebrates. 

Come out and view the variety of aquatic life that inhabit these springs.

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is committed to providing a variety of amenities accessible to all of our visitors. These amenities include:

  • Concession.
  • Picnic facilities with tables and grills.
  • Campsites with picnic table, ground grill and nearby restrooms.

Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.

Campgrounds
Campgrounds

The park features 23 campsites: 16 sites for RV/tent camping (30 amp available) and seven tent-only camping.

  • For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion

Bring a picnic and sit under the covered pavilions for a scenic view of the springs.

Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities

Restroom facilities are available where you can change into your gear and prepare for the beautiful springs swimming areas. 

RV
RV

For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.

Florida State Parks

Main Menu

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    • FAQs
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    • Rules & Regulations
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Have Questions?

Contact the Statewide Information Line:
(850) 245-2157

Or send an email to:
FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov

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