Popular Tubing Spot in Florida to Shut Down in 2025: What You Need to Know

Tubing Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Florida Photo by The Florida Guidebook | Flickr

Those hoping to take to the waters at Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Florida any time soon may want to rethink their plans, as the park's popular river run is set to close public access in early 2025. Fret not though — the closure will only be temporary.

According to an announcement from Ichetucknee Springs State Park Tube & Watersports, the beloved tubing spot, Ichetucknee River, will temporarily shutter to the public in January 2025. The closure is set to span a minimum of 2 weeks starting on the 6th of the month.

The upcoming closure comes amid damage to the river's surrounding foliage as a result of the 2024 hurricanes. State Park staff will spend the closure time sprucing up the spring run by clearing debris and downed trees that currently crowd the river's coveted crystal clear waterways.

The announcement for the upcoming closure follows a prior repair initiative launched on October 19, 2024 aimed at fixing problems at the Last Takeout Gate/South Takeout Gate and Midpoint Tube Launch; both of which remain closed, and will until further notice according to the Florida State Park's website.

The park's popular swimming spot, dubbed 'The Blue Hole,' also remains closed to the public until further notice while repairs are being completed on the boardwalk; its estimated reopening date is still undetermined as of publication.

Despite the current and upcoming closures, there is plenty left to explore at Ichetucknee Springs State Park that will stay open to the public.
Tubers are still allowed to launch from Dampier's Landing at the South Entrance until 4 p.m. prior to the January 2025 closure. Other park features will also remain open, including the 2,669-acre wildlife haven's multiple hiking and biking trails, paddling activities from the North Launch, and swimming at the head spring, which are located through the North Entrance, along with a food truck.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located at 12087 S.W. U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, Florida 32038 and is open from 8 am to sunset year-round. Admission is $6 per vehicle, requiring the purchase of a single-use day pass. The day pass can be purchased online via the Florida State Park's portal.

Additional information about Ichetucknee Springs State Park's events, history, and amenities can be found on the Florida State Park's website. For help planning your visit, please direct questions to the Florida State Park's hotline at (386)-497-4690.

Article by Rachael Volpe