Hart Springs – Black Lagoon USA

Hart Springs, nestled within a picturesque county recreation area, offers an exciting diving experience for enthusiasts. While this information draws inspiration from the Florida Geological Survey Bulletin 66, it’s important to note that diving conditions can vary based on the entrance you choose.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 29.67524, -82.94894
• Depth: 80 ft
• Remarks: Guided
• Type: Cave

Entrances and Guide Requirements

1. Little Hart Entrance: For those seeking a solo adventure, Little Hart is the way to go. No guide is necessary here, making it a perfect option for experienced divers.
2. Black Lagoon Cave Entrance: If you’re looking to explore the captivating cave via the Black Lagoon entrance, it’s essential to have a certified guide accompany you. To find a suitable guide, visit our guide directory [here](insert link) for contact information.

Guides and Gratitude

Our guides are dedicated volunteers, passionate about preserving this natural wonder. They cannot charge for their services and do not expect tips. However, showing appreciation by providing a hearty meal or a refreshing beverage after your dive is a thoughtful gesture.

Getting There

To reach Hart Springs, follow these straightforward directions:

1. Head northwest from Fanning Springs, traveling approximately 6.5 miles.
2. After crossing the Suwannee River on US 98/27A heading east, turn left onto SR 26.
3. Drive approximately 1.4 miles to reach the charming town of Wilcox.
4. In Wilcox, SR 26 takes a 90-degree bend to the right (east). Instead, continue straight onto CR 232.
5. Drive 4.1 miles and make a left turn onto CR 344.
6. Continue for 1.6 miles, then take a right turn into the recreation area.

Exploring the Springs

The head of Hart Springs Run is a marvel of nature with three merging spring runs. The primary spring, sampled for water quality in April 2002, is situated in the middle channel.

• The middle spring pool measures 51 ft north to south and 45 ft east to west.
• The pool’s depth, measured over the vent, reaches an impressive 19.9 ft.
• The water is exceptionally clear with a mesmerizing greenish hue.
• In the center of the spring pool, a captivating boil graces the surface, courtesy of spring discharge.
• The vent itself is a vertical limestone fissure, boasting walls that rise to 15 ft.
• Encircled by a 4 ft high metal retaining wall, the spring pool showcases a nearly rectangular shape.
• The metal wall extends for several hundred feet, defining the perimeter of the southernmost spring and its run.
• The bottom of the swimming area, where the spring channels converge, is sandy.
• While the northern run may not be flowing, the southernmost spring exhibits a slight flow without a surface boil.
• The spring pool is rich in exotic aquatic vegetation, with algae thriving within it. Other aquatic plants line the pool’s edges.

From the swimming area, where the spring runs converge, Hart Springs Run gracefully flows northwest for approximately 850 ft, joining the Suwannee River from the east. The springs are nestled within a lush forested river floodplain.

Exploration Made Easy

For your convenience, a 0.3-mile-long wooden boardwalk follows the north side of the spring run and the east side of the river. Footbridges gracefully cross both the northernmost and main spring runs, offering easy access to all the beauty that Hart Springs has to offer.

Facilities Galore

Hart Springs is situated within a county recreation area that provides full facilities, ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and comfortable. Dive into the heart of nature’s beauty at Hart Springs.