Citrus Blue USA

If you’re seeking a serene and natural oasis in the heart of Florida, Citrus Blue Spring is a must-visit destination. Nestled along the Withlacoochee River, approximately 10 miles southeast of Dunnellon, this enchanting spring offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and water lovers alike.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 28.969274, -82.314451
• Depth: 180 ft
• Remarks: Sidemount, Withlacoochee Blue, Arrowhead Blue Spring
• Type: Cave

Getting There is Easy:

Finding Citrus Blue Spring is a breeze. Just follow these simple directions:

1. Starting Point: Begin your journey at the US 41 bridge over the Withlacoochee River in Dunnellon.
2. Southbound on US 41: Travel south on US 41 for approximately 1.3 miles until you reach the intersection with CR 39.
3. Turn Left on CR 39: Head east (left) on CR 39 and continue your journey for approximately 7.6 miles.
4. Intersection with CR 200: At the intersection with CR 200, take a left and head northeast for a mere 0.1 mile. You’ll soon arrive at the bridge over the Withlacoochee River at Stokes Ferry.
5. Boat Launch: Once at Stokes Ferry, you’ll find a convenient boat launch on the southeast side of the river.

Accessing the Spring:

To reach the captivating Citrus Blue Spring, simply boat upstream from the CR 200 bridge in Stoke’s Ferry for about 3 miles. The spring is situated on the right (south) side of the river, waiting to immerse you in its beauty.

A Closer Look at Citrus Blue Spring:

Now, let’s dive into the spring’s description:

• Circular Pool: Citrus Blue Spring boasts a roughly circular pool measuring 120 feet in diameter.
• Man-Made Dike: On the east side of the spring pool, you’ll notice a man-made dike, standing at a height of five feet.
• Variable Depths: The spring depression is relatively shallow and consistent, except at its center where it plunges to a depth of 22 feet.
• Nature’s Wonder: During your visit, you might catch a slight boil over the vent, adding to the spring’s natural charm.
• Blue-Green Waters: The water’s color is a captivating bluish-green, and the sandy bottom is adorned with abundant aquatic grass and sporadic algae.
• Flow Path: The spring’s flow is directed northwestward through a 30-foot wide man-made canal, eventually merging with the Withlacoochee River around 0.4 miles downstream.
• Historical Flow: Before the dike’s construction, the spring’s discharge flowed eastward, extending approximately 150 feet into the river.
• Surrounded by Nature: Citrus Blue Spring is nestled within the lush Withlacoochee River floodplain, providing a picturesque backdrop for your visit.
• Mysterious Caverns: The spring is said to harbor an extensive cavern system, opening southward to depths reaching at least 180 feet below the spring surface, adding an element of intrigue to your exploration (Rosenau et al., 1977).

Experience the Wonder:

Citrus Blue Spring, though surrounded by private property, welcomes locals and visitors for a refreshing swim. It’s a hidden gem where you can connect with nature and experience the unspoiled beauty of Florida’s landscape.

So, when you’re in the Dunnellon area, don’t miss the chance to embark on a journey to Citrus Blue Spring. It’s a natural wonder that promises relaxation, adventure, and a glimpse into the untouched beauty of the Sunshine State.

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