Nichols Spring is a second-magnitude spring located along the Withlacoochee River in Sumter County, Florida. The spring is privately owned but has public river access, making it a known stop for boaters, paddlers, swimmers, and tubers traveling this section of the Withlacoochee.

The spring and its short spring run became especially notable in 2022, when the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved Florida’s first Springs Protection Zone for Nichols Spring. The rule was created to reduce damage from anchoring, mooring, beaching, and grounding vessels along the spring shoreline and run.

What to Expect

Nichols Spring is not a developed state park or public swimming facility. It is more of a river-access spring, reached from the Withlacoochee River. Visitors may still access the spring by water, but vessels must stay outside the protected area. Swimming, tubing, and rafting are generally allowed, while anchoring or beaching boats in the protected spring zone is prohibited.

Access

Access is primarily from the Withlacoochee River. Because surrounding land is private, visitors should stay within lawful river access areas and follow posted rules.

Nearby Springs

• Gum Spring
• Rainbow Springs
• Panasoffkee Spring
• Fenney Spring
• Wysong Spring

More Resources

• FWC Springs Protection Zone announcement
• USGS
• Florida Politics coverage