Leon Sinks – Wakulla Springs USA

Wakulla Spring, nestled within the pristine Wakulla Springs State Park, is a breathtaking natural wonder located approximately 20 miles south of Tallahassee. Below, you’ll find detailed directions to this captivating site, along with a glimpse into its unique features and recreational offerings.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 30.234928, -84.3032
• Depth: 320 ft
• Remarks: Closed
• Type: Cave, Cavern

Getting There: Directions to Wakulla Spring

1. From I-10 to US 319: Exit I-10 onto US 319 (Thomasville Road) and head south for 12.9 miles.
2. Turn onto Crawfordville Highway: Merge right onto US 319/SR 61 (Crawfordville Highway) and continue your journey for 1.9 miles.
3. Bear Left onto Wakulla Springs Road: Take a left onto SR 61 (Wakulla Springs Road) and proceed for 7.6 miles until you reach SR 267.
4. Arrival at the Park: Turn left (east) onto SR 267, and you’ll find the park entrance just 0.1 miles down the road on the south side.

Exploring Wakulla Spring’s Grandeur

Wakulla Spring is celebrated as one of Florida’s most remarkable natural springs, known for its sheer size and stunning beauty. Here’s what you need to know:

• Circular Spring Pool: The spring pool boasts an impressive circular shape with a diameter stretching 315 feet from north to south.
• Incredible Depth: Venture below the surface to witness the spring’s maximum depth, a remarkable 185 feet.
• Unique Vent Opening: The vent opening, situated along the south side of the pool bottom, takes the form of a horizontal ellipse, measuring an estimated 50 feet by 82 feet.
• Crystal-Clear Waters: In October 2001, Wakulla Spring displayed exceptional water clarity, characterized by a mesmerizing light blue hue. However, it’s important to note that water clarity can vary significantly in response to rainfall. Surface water entering the sinkholes that connect to the Wakulla Spring system can reduce clarity.
• Conservation Efforts: To preserve its natural beauty, efforts have been made to control exotic aquatic vegetation that once covered the spring pool and adjacent river bottom. Divers have removed substantial amounts of this vegetation, and herbicides have been employed for further control. Despite these efforts, the Wakulla River still contends with invasive plant species.
• Diverse Flora and Fauna: The spring pool and river are home to various aquatic and emergent plant species. Along the north and east shores of the spring and the river, you’ll find a mixed hardwood, cabbage palm, and cypress forest. Uplands along the western shore house a state park lodge and facilities, surrounded by scattered hardwoods and majestic loblolly pines.
• Hidden Beneath: Below the surface, a major underwater cave system has been meticulously mapped at Wakulla Springs, providing a captivating experience for experienced divers.

Wakulla Spring: A Recreational Haven

Wakulla Spring has been transformed into a recreational and wildlife viewing paradise. Here’s what you can expect:

• Park Amenities: The park boasts a lodge and restaurant, making it a perfect spot for a delightful meal or a comfortable stay.
• Guided Tours: Explore the wonders of Wakulla Spring with regular glass-bottomed riverboat and spring tours.
• Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the southeast quadrant of the spring pool, a designated swimming area for visitors.
• Wildlife Sanctuary: The upper 3 miles of the Wakulla River are state-owned and serve as a protected wildlife sanctuary, providing a unique opportunity to observe Florida’s diverse wildlife.

As you plan your next outdoor adventure, consider the enchanting beauty and recreational opportunities that await you at Wakulla Spring and the surrounding Wakulla Springs State Park. It’s a destination that promises unforgettable experiences in the heart of Florida’s natural splendor.

Wakulla springs water temperature

• The water temperature in Wakulla Springs is 70°F, which is invigorating and refreshing, especially on hot summer days.

Wakulla springs cave deaths

• Parker Turner (1991): Well-known cave explorer Parker Turner died in Indian Springs in November 1991, which deeply affected the cave diving community1. He was an unpaid volunteer with the FSU dive program.
• Kendall’s Death (1999): Physicist Kendall’s body was found floating in shallow water at Wakulla Springs State Park in 1999. Authorities determined that his death was not caused by a dive3.
• Whiskey Still Sink (2011): A cave diving accident occurred in Whiskey Still Sink in Wakulla County in 2011. The diver’s body and diving gear were recovered, and an autopsy was scheduled to determine the cause of death.

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