Experiences & Amenities
Know Before You Go
Effective April 1, 2022: The dump station at Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Spring State Park is out of service. A dump station is available at O'Leno State Park. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Know Before You Go
Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park has very high visitation on weekends and holidays and will close when capacity is reached. When this occurs, only registered campers will be allowed to enter. Cash and credit cards are accepted for entrance fee.
Experiences
Camping
The park features 25 campsites: 17 sites for RV/tent camping (30 amp available) and eight tent-only camping.
- Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book online or call 800-326-3521 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) or TDD 888-433-0287.
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.
Paddling
Paddling, snorkeling and swimming are all popular at the main springhead and spring run. Canoe and kayak rentals are available onsite by Anderson's Outdoor Adventures.
Hiking
The most significant ecological habitats within the park include the spring run stream and floodplain communities. The main spring run is renowned for its support of a diversity of wildlife species including turtles, fish and invertebrates. Nature study and hiking are very popular at this park.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is available in designated areas.
Swimming
Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park offers swimming at many of the springs located at the park.
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 support of a 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
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.
Picnic Pavilion
Bring a picnic and sit under the covered pavilions for a scenic view of the springs.
Restroom Facilities
When you visit Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, restroom facilities are available to change into your gear and prepare for the beautiful springs swimming areas.