Manager's Message
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Fanning Springs. The crazy busy summer crowds drop off, shifting to quiet relaxation as silence settles over this gorgeous spring along the Suwannee River. Everyone is still welcome to take the plunge into the deep blue crystal clear waters. This park is a hub of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, featuring rental cabins and easily accessible from U.S. 19.
Canoe and kayak rentals are available through Suwannee Guides and Outfitters at 352-542-8331. Take an easy downstream trip from Fanning Springs to her sister park, Manatee Springs. It's about a 10 mile trip and takes about 4 hours depending on conditions of weather and river current. Suwannee Guides & Outfitters also offer pontoon boat tours, so be sure and inquire if you prefer a less strenuous voyage.
Check out all the diverse recreational activities available in this park. If you are a SCUBA diver, proof of certification is required and you must have a buddy. Swimming is open year round when the river is calm and the water is clear.
Manatees visit Fanning Springs from time to time. Remember to give them respect and space as they are endangered species and protected by law. Swimmers are welcome year round, so see how the water seems to get warmer as the air temperature drops. "The fountain of youth" awaits you.
Changing weather conditions, spring flow and other factors can allow the tea colored river water to cover the spring. At those dark water times swimming is prohibited for your safety. Be sure to call the park ahead of time to see if swimming is open.
Fanning Springs State Park also features hiking trails and a pleasant boardwalk to view the river. The rental cabins comfortably sleep 6 people and reservations can be made through Reserve America. Feel free to call the park for more details prior to making your reservations. Escape to Fanning Springs and refresh, renew, re-create yourself.
- Sally Lieb, Park Manager
Welcome to Fanning Springs State Park
Located on the Suwannee River, this inviting source of cool, clear water has attracted people for thousands of years. As a strong 2nd magnitude springs, Fanning Springs provides refreshing swimming or snorkeling on a hot day. Visitors can enter the park by car or arrive by boat from the Suwannee river. Many visitors enjoy the picnic area, playground, volleyball court or use the park's large open areas for ball games, throwing Frisbees, and also for events. There is a canoe/kayak launch available, a nature trail and a boardwalk that overlooks the river. In the summer the gazebo at the end of the boardwalk is a fine place to watch sturgeon jumping. Manatees are often seen in the springs during the winter months and occasionally in the summer. White-tailed deer, gray squirrels, red-shouldered hawks, pileated woodpeckers, and barred owls are some of the other animals seen in the park. Reserve a canoe or kayak by calling Suwannee Guides and Outfitters at (352) 542-8331. If you bring a pet please remember they must be on a hand held leash no longer than six feet. For the safety of our non-pet owning guests, there are restricted areas (the main picnic and swimming areas). Please observe signs and restrict pets to more remote sections of the park. The Park is located on U.S. 19/98 in the town of Fanning Springs.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Fanning Springs State Park, please call 352-463-3420.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Fanning Springs State Park is located on U.S. Hwy. 19/98 in the town of Fanning Springs.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
When the Entrance Station is closed, an Honor Fee of $1.00 per person is payable at the pay station just beyond the Entrance Station.
$2.00 per passenger arriving by boat, paid at Honor box on dock.
Picnic Pavilion Fees:$25.00 per day, plus tax: large pavilion.
$15.00 per day, plus tax: two smaller pavilions.
Primitive Camping Fees:$5.00 per person for Suwannee River Wildnerness Trail users only.
Cabin Rental Fees:$100.00 per night, plus tax.
Scuba Diving Fees:$15.00 per diver, plus tax.
Fanning Springs State Park
18020 N.W. Highway 19
Fanning Springs, Florida 32693
Phone: 352-463-3420
Fax: 352-463-4038
Visitor Service Provider
