Overview

Piney Woods Spring is a small spring located within the Holmes Creek floodplain in Washington County, Florida, near Cypress Spring. Although often overlooked by paddlers visiting the better-known Cypress Spring, Piney Woods Spring plays an important role in the local spring system and historically contributed flow directly into Cypress Spring’s pool.

Located in a heavily forested wetland environment, the spring is known for its secluded setting, swamp forest surroundings, and changing flow conditions.

Spring Characteristics

Piney Woods Spring occupies a shallow conical depression with a circular spring pool approximately 25 feet in diameter. Historical Florida Geological Survey reports describe the spring as having experienced periods of little or no visible flow, followed by improved discharge after debris was removed from the vent area.

The spring run flows west through swamp forest before entering Cypress Spring Run downstream of Cypress Spring itself. Historically, Piney Woods Spring flowed directly into the Cypress Spring pool, but alterations to the landscape redirected the flow into a separate channel entering farther downstream.

Water clarity can vary significantly depending on seasonal conditions, water levels, and debris accumulation. Reports note that murky brown water became noticeably clearer after restoration of spring flow.

Recreation and Activities

Piney Woods Spring is primarily a destination for:

• Kayaking and canoe exploration
• Spring hunting and photography
• Wildlife observation
• Backcountry paddling on Holmes Creek

The spring is not developed for recreation and is generally not considered a swimming destination. Most visitors encounter the spring while exploring nearby Cypress Spring Run and the surrounding floodplain waterways.

Access Information

Piney Woods Spring is located near Cypress Spring within the Holmes Creek floodplain north of Vernon, Florida.

Access is limited because the spring is located on private property and surrounded by wetlands. Most visitors view the area from nearby waterways while paddling Holmes Creek.

Nearby public launch points include:

• Cypress Springs Adventures
• Holmes Creek Boat Ramp (Big Pine Landing / Culpepper Landing)
• Live Oak Landing

Environmental Setting

The spring lies within a lowland swamp forest dominated by cypress, tupelo, and planted pine forests. The surrounding landscape is characterized by wetlands, floodplain vegetation, and seasonally changing water levels.

The spring run travels through forested wetlands before joining Cypress Spring Run, creating an important hydrologic connection between the two spring systems.

Historical Connection to Cypress Spring

One of the most interesting features of Piney Woods Spring is its historical relationship with Cypress Spring.

Florida Geological Survey reports indicate that Piney Woods Spring originally discharged directly into Cypress Spring’s main pool. A berm was later constructed to divert the flow for aesthetic purposes, causing Piney Woods Spring Run to enter Cypress Spring Run farther downstream through a channel and culvert system.

Today, the spring remains part of the broader Cypress Spring watershed while maintaining its own distinct spring run.

Photo credit: A. Chelette, Florida Geological Survey (Piney Woods Spring).