Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park features year-round 72-degree clear turquoise waters surrounded by shade, pavilions, and nature trails. Content creators highlight its shallow areas and classic Florida spring beauty, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, diving practice, and paddling or floating down the river.

Commenters share mixed sentiments, with long-time visitors noting the park has degraded since Hurricane Irma removed its iconic jump dock and aquatic vegetation. Local residents caution that promotional videos are heavily filtered, while raising concerns about alligator sightings, crowd levels, and water quality.