Frequently Asked Questions about Fanning Springs State Park

Question: Do you have scuba diving?
Answer: Scuba diving is allowed with proof of certification and when following safety guidelines. The cost is $10.00 plus tax per diver.

Question: How big is the park?
Answer: It covers approximately 200 acres.

Question: How do I get there?
Answer: We are located where the Suwannee River and US19 meet in the city of Fanning Springs.

Question: How deep is the spring?
Answer: The deepest part of the spring is 12 to 14 feet deep.

Question: How does the spring work and where does it go?
Answer: Local rain falls and soaks through the ground down into layers of limestone. This porous layer of limestone is known as the Florida Aquifer. The limestone is exposed here along the banks of the Suwannee River. The water flows out through cracks and pores forming a spring. It makes a "run" down the bank and empties into the river.

Question: Where can I camp?
Answer: Manatee Springs State Park - (352) 493-6072,
Hart Springs (Gilchrist County Park) - (352) 463-3444,
Original Suwannee River Campground - (352) 542-7680

Question: Where can I eat?
Answer: During the warmer months a food concession operates at the park. There are many types of restaurants in our area.

Question: What type of wildlife and plants will we see?
Answer: Some animals you may readily see are gray squirrels and red shoulder hawks. White tail deer and raccoons are more active at night but are occasionally seen during the day. If the weather is cold manatees may be warming themselves in the springs. Summertime is your best chance to see a gopher tortoise. Look in open, grassy areas for their sandy burrows. Some trees that grow here are red and live oaks, loblolly and long leaf pines, bald cypress, red bays and cabbage palms. Smaller plants are beauty berries, coonties and yaupon hollies.