Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WRECK DIVING IN TROY SPRINGS
At the bottom of crystalline Troy Springs is something unexpected: the wreck of a Civil
War steamboat. The Madisonwas deliberately sunk in 1863 to prevent her capture by
Union troops; though her owner intended to raise her after the war, when he returned he
found her body stripped by scavengers. Today, divers float over the Madison's ravaged
skeleton, peering at her 150-year-old hull. Even snorkelers can have a gander - the wa-
ter's so clear you can see 70ft straight down. Divers must be certified and bring a buddy.
The springs are part of Troy Springs State Park, at 674 Troy Springs Rd in Branford, just
east of Ichetucknee Springs. Park entry is $5 per car.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Relax in a giant inner tube and float through gin-clear waters at this popular
park
(
386-497-4690;
www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings
;
12087 SW US 27, Fort White; car $6,
river use per person $5; 8am-sunset)
, on the lazy, spring-fed Ichetucknee River.
Various water sports are available here, but tubing is certainly the most popular. Floats
last from 45 minutes to 3½ hours, with scattered launch points along the river. The park
runs regular trams bringing tubers to the river and also a free shuttle service (May to
September) between the north and south entrances.
To minimize environmental impact, the number of tubers is limited to 750 a day; arrive
early as capacity is often reached mid-morning. Use the south entrance: the shuttle service
takes you to the launch points, allowing you to float back down to your car.
You'll see farmers advertising tube rental as you approach the park along Hwy 238 and
47 (the park itself does not rent tubes). Tubes are $5 and one- or two-person rafts cost $10
to $15. At the end of the day, leave your gear at the tube drop at the southern end of the
park; it'll be returned.
