Summary

Wacissa Springs is a large spring group located in Jefferson County, Florida, forming the headwaters of the scenic Wacissa River. The system consists of roughly twenty individual springs that flow together to create a wide, clear spring run that winds south through cypress swamp and wetlands before eventually joining the Aucilla River.

The springs collectively discharge at a first-magnitude rate, making Wacissa one of the largest spring systems in North Florida. The main cluster includes Log Spring, Thomas Spring, Wacissa Springs #1–4, and Aucilla Spring. Beneath the clear water, thick beds of aquatic vegetation such as coontail and hydrilla grow along the limestone bottom.

Today the springs remain a popular local recreation area and paddling destination east of Tallahassee, offering access to one of Florida’s most beautiful spring-fed rivers.

Activities

Kayaking and Canoeing

Wacissa Springs is best known as a paddling destination. The spring run quickly widens into the Wacissa River, which flows through a scenic cypress swamp filled with wildlife. Many paddlers explore the river upstream and downstream to visit other springs such as Big Blue Spring.

Swimming

A small swimming area near the park boat ramp allows visitors to cool off in the clear spring water. Rope swings and docks are sometimes used by locals for jumping into the water.

Fishing

The Wacissa River is a popular fishing spot, particularly near the boat ramp and along slower sections of the river.

Access

Public access to the spring system is provided through Wacissa Springs County Park, which includes a boat ramp and launch area at the head of the river. This launch point allows paddlers to easily reach the core cluster of springs.

The park area also provides parking and portable restrooms. Facilities are limited and the site can become crowded during weekends and summer months.

Most of the individual springs within the group are best reached by kayak or canoe along the Wacissa River.

Additional Notes

The Wacissa Springs Group is designated an Outstanding Florida Spring, a classification given to thirty of Florida’s most important springs under the Florida Springs and Aquifer Protection Act. Despite its ecological importance, the spring system has been identified as impaired due to water quality concerns, meaning restoration efforts are underway to improve the health of the aquifer and spring ecosystem.

Historically, the springs have long been used as a swimming and recreation area for residents of nearby communities. Photographs from the early 1900s show visitors enjoying the springs more than a century ago.

The surrounding wetlands and cypress forests are part of the Aucilla Wildlife Management Area, which helps protect the natural landscape surrounding the river.

External Links

• Suwanee River Water Management District
• FloridaSprings.org

By State of Florida, photo by R. Means – http://publicfiles.dep.state.fl.us/FGS/WEB/springs/bulletin_66.pdf, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24411404