Blue Springs and Alexander Springs

[Paladin]

We are going to be vacationing in Florida in July. Since my cousin lives in Deltona, we have decided to stay at the campground at Blue Springs State Park. My sons and I want to try some diving in the Florida springs. We originally wanted to try Ginnie Springs but they won't let my eleven-year-old dive there, so Ginnie is out. Have any of you dived Blue Springs or Alexander Springs and what are they like?

 

[Nemrod]

All state parks require that divers be certified. N

 

[Paladin]

My sons are both PADI certified. It's just that Ginnie Springs has a minimum age of 12 yrs. and my youngest won't be 12 until September.

 

[tarponchik]

Try Devil's Den, at least there are some large catfish there. Ginnie is just plain boredon (the limestone looks the same at 10 feet or 30 feet etc.)

PS: Actually, the best thing to do with your sons in this area will be tubing down the Ichetucknee river. This is a lot more fun then diving in springs. Don't forget to take masks and snorkels, you'll see plenty of fish and turtles in crystal-clear water.

 

[kb8lxc]

If you don't mind driving a little, I would check out the Blue Heron Bridge dive. I have only been there once but I look forward to going back. The drive really wouldn't be that much more than you were looking at if you had gone to Ginnie Springs and I would bet you will see a LOT more at Blue Heron than at any of the inland limestone dives.

 

[captain]

Alexander is a nice spot for an easy dive. I have seen lots of kids swimming and snorkeling there. I believe it is in a national park not a state park and the rules seemed a little less restrictive than state parks. If it were me and my son I would recommend trying Alexander.
I wouldn't recommend Alexander, it is a state park.
Both should have web sites you could check out.

 

[Paladin]

I think it is the other way around, Captain. Alexander is in Ocala National Forest. Blue is a state park. I was checking out things on the web about both springs and Blue Springs State Park has received a number of bad reviews concerning the rudeness of the staff and the unpleasant experiences of many visitors whether they were divers or not.

I had originally intended to stay at the Blue Springs campground but have changed my mind. My cousin told me about a nice RV park near him and I have contacted them for reservations.

Alexander Springs looks rather attractive from what I have been able to see on the web. But none of the web sites say if air is available at the springs or how far it is to go for air.

Devil's Den looks to be good for a day of diving, too.

I would really appreciate any further info you guys can offer. I want this trip to be a good memory maker for my boys.

 

[highdesert]

PS: Actually, the best thing to do with your sons in this area will be tubing down the Ichetucknee river. This is a lot more fun then diving in springs. Don't forget to take masks and snorkels, you'll see plenty of fish and turtles in crystal-clear water.

Another vote for this one! Snakes hanging from tree braches as you float under them is every bit as interesting as the underwater scene ...

 

[Reef]

Alexander is a bore. Also I don't think you would like the idea of your sons diving with a gator. The last couple times we have been there we have made company with a 8 foot gator. Alexander is a small park aswell, and they close it once at capacity.

Devils Den like the others have mentioned is a good dive.

Troy Springs is a ton of fun, but call or check the park website first to make sure the Spring is open. Tannic gets into the spring a fair amount, and they close it too divers.

Someone mentioned Blue Heron Bridge. BHB gets my vote anytime. It's a drive, but worth it. Construction has just started at the bridge so be aware of your surroundings, and also only dive it at slack tide.

 

[captain]

Gators aren't an issue other than during mating season when they sometimes close the spring to prevent people from disturbing the gators.