A swimming and diving platform extends to the edge of the spring where it drops 185 feet deep to the Wakulla Spring cave. © Russell Sparkman

Wakulla Spring is one of the largest springs in the world, discharging an average of 260 million gallons of water per day. The spring pool is an impressive 315 feet in diameter, and the huge vent is estimated to be 82 feet wide and 50 feet high, and about 185 feet deep beneath a limestone ledge. In 2008 Tropical Storm Fay produced a record spring flow of almost 1.5 billion gallons per day! The vent extends into a massive network of caves that measures 28.6 miles to date, and is the fourth longest explored aquatic cave system in the world.

The mapping of this network of caves is even more impressive because they are between 280 and 300 feet deep. The Wakulla River hosts abundant wildlife, including birds, turtles, alligators, and manatees, all closely approached by tour boats. The old-growth hardwood forest bordering the river is extraordinary in its own right—it boasts 12 State Champion and 2 National Champion Trees. Overlooking the spring is a beautiful 1937 lodge, which offers 27 guest rooms, a full-service dining room, a gift shop, a snack bar, and meeting facilities. Wakulla Springs is a National Natural Landmark, and the state park is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of numerous important archaeological and historic resources. The park is located 14 miles south of Tallahassee on State Road 267 at the intersection of State Road 61.

At a Glance:

Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, boat tours, wildlife viewing, hiking, picnicking, playground, horse trail, lodging, restaurant dining, snack bar

Entrance Fee: Yes

Scuba Diving: No

Onsite Camping: No

Dogs Allowed: Yes—see state park website for rules

Type of Park: Florida state park

Address and Contact Information:

Wakulla Springs State Park
550 Wakulla Park Drive
Wakulla Springs, FL 32327
Phone: (850) 926–0700

Map Link

Other Web Resources:

Florida State Park Website