Otter Springs USA

Otter Spring, a captivating natural wonder, is situated just 4.5 miles north of Fanning Springs, nestled on the east bank of the picturesque Suwannee River. Finding this hidden gem is a breeze: follow US 98/27A eastbound across the Suwannee River, then make a left turn heading north onto SR 26. Drive north on SR 26 for approximately 1.4 miles until you reach the charming town of Wilcox. At this point, SR 26 takes a sharp 90-degree turn to the east (right). Instead of following the bend, continue straight north onto CR 232. Keep driving north until you reach the intersection with CR 334, approximately 1.7 miles later. Take a left turn onto CR 334, and after approximately 2.3 miles, you’ll arrive at the boat ramp. It’s worth noting that the spring run merges with the Suwannee River just half a mile upstream from the CR 334 boat ramp.

• Region: Florida
• Coordinates: 29.644238, -82.943273
• Depth: 55 ft
• Remarks: Guided
• Type: Cave

Otter Spring is a natural wonder characterized by its almost perfectly circular, bowl-shaped spring pool, boasting a diameter of 68 feet. This enchanting pool is encircled by a sturdy concrete retaining wall made from bags. The spring water emerges from a vertical fissure in the limestone bedrock, with the depth above the fissure measuring an impressive 27.5 feet. If you’re lucky enough to visit in April, you might even witness a subtle surface boil. The water in the spring is exceptionally clear, sporting a delightful greenish hue. While there’s minimal aquatic vegetation within the spring itself, the entire depression is adorned with a lush layer of algae. A small man-made limestone dam stretches gracefully across the outflow channel on the western side of the pool.

As you breathe in the fresh air, you might catch a distinct hint of hydrogen sulfide odor, lending a unique character to the spring. The water’s flow heads southwest, covering approximately 110 feet before reaching a larger, seemingly man-made, circular pool with a diameter of around 130 feet. This expansive pool maintains an average depth of 10 feet and serves as a delightful swimming area for visitors. Following its westward course, Otter Spring eventually joins the Suwannee River, enhancing the river’s beauty. The spring’s run, characterized by a shallow, sandy bottom, is about half as wide as the spring itself, winding its way through a lush, forested river floodplain.

The land surrounding Otter Spring is relatively low, with elevations rising to roughly 5 feet above water level. You’ll find most of the uplands adorned with expansive grassy areas, intermittently punctuated by majestic live oak trees. Peeking through the oak trees to the east, you might spot private residences, several hundred feet away from the spring.

This captivating spring is nestled within private property and has previously served as a private campground and a cherished swimming area for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a serene natural escape or an opportunity to reconnect with the wonders of Florida’s outdoors, Otter Spring is a must-visit destination.

FAQ