Edward’s Spring USA

Discover the allure of Ellaville Spring, nestled on the eastern banks of the Suwannee River, approximately 13 miles northwest of Live Oak, Florida. Our guide provides essential information, directions, and insights while drawing from the Florida Geological Survey Bulletin 66.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 30.38407, -83.17264
• Depth: 145 ft
• Remarks:
• Type: Cave

Getting There: Accessing Ellaville Spring

1. Starting Point: Your journey begins at the intersection of I-10 and US 90, located northwest of Live Oak.
2. Heading Northwest: Drive approximately 5.7 miles northwest on US 90, just before reaching the bridge over the Suwannee River.
3. Navigating to the Spring: For precise directions, refer to the Springs Fever website, which suggests turning right onto the dirt road behind the agricultural inspection station on the north side of Highway 90. Then, turn left onto a dirt/grass path just before the railroad tracks. Drive about 150 feet towards the river, and you’ll find Ellaville Spring about 100 feet to the west (left). Note that the spring is surrounded by private property.
4. Alternative Access: If you prefer river access, you can reach Ellaville Spring by traveling downstream from the boat ramp at the Suwannee River State Park, covering approximately 0.3 miles. Your destination lies just below the confluence of the Withlacoochee River, where the spring run flows in from the east side of the river, downstream from the railroad trestle.

Exploring Ellaville Spring: A Natural Wonder

Ellaville Spring originates from a fascinating cave system within the limestone banks of the Suwannee River.

Description:

• Spring Pool Characteristics: The small spring pool boasts a diameter of about 6 feet and is surrounded by vertical limestone walls that soar to heights of approximately 15 feet above the water’s surface.
• Water Clarity: While in April 2002, the spring water exhibited tannic qualities, it typically maintains a clear and bluish appearance.
• Spring Run: The spring pool sits about 80 feet above an enlarged limestone fracture, serving as the conduit for the spring run. This spring run averages 8 feet in width and 8 feet in depth.
• Underwater Mysteries: Divers have reported that the spring’s depth plunges to 150 feet within an extensive cave system associated with Ellaville Spring. This remarkable cave system is said to extend beneath the Suwannee River, eventually connecting with the Suwanacoochee Spring cave system.

Utilization:

Ellaville Spring remains undeveloped and is located on private property adjacent to Suwannee River State Park property. It is a favored destination for cave diving enthusiasts who seek the thrill of exploring its intricate underwater caverns.

Embrace the natural beauty and adventure that Ellaville Spring offers, where crystal-clear waters meet the mysteries of an extensive underwater cave system. Whether you’re an avid cave diver or simply a nature enthusiast, this destination promises a unique experience.

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