Santa Fe Spring

Summary

Santa Fe Spring is a major Floridan Aquifer spring located at the confluence of Olustee Creek and the Santa Fe River in Columbia County. It lies within the 254-acre Santa Fe Springs Preserve, protected through a partnership with the Suwannee River Water Management District.

Once considered a first-magnitude spring and now classified as second magnitude, Santa Fe Spring discharges an average of about 44 million gallons of water per day. The basin spans roughly 200 feet across, reaches depths of 70+ feet, and connects to the Floridan Aquifer through a deep cave system. The spring’s flow and clarity are highly dynamic, changing with river and aquifer conditions.

Although closed to visitors, Santa Fe Spring is one of the most important hydrologic features in the upper Santa Fe River system. Its clear groundwater contrasts with the darker river water and supports downstream ecosystems all the way to the Suwannee River.

Access

Public Access

According to official sources, no public access is currently available. The spring lies within a protected conservation preserve that is not yet open for recreation.

Managing organizations have stated the preserve is expected to open in the future with low-impact trails, parking, and kiosks. However, timelines may change, and visitors should confirm status with local agencies before planning a trip.

River Travel

The Santa Fe River remains a navigable public waterway, and paddlers or boaters may pass this area while traveling along the river. However, the spring and surrounding lands lie within a protected preserve and are not open for landing, hiking, or swimming access. The nearest access is the boat ramp west of Highway 75.