Accessible Features

Accessible Features

See below for more information to help plan a safe and inclusive experience at Ichetucknee Springs State Park. For further questions, please call 386-497-4690 or email caitlin.gonsiorek@floridadep.gov. 

 

Service Animals

Service animals are allowed in all park buildings and facilities, trails and Day Use areas as well as visitor transport equipment. Emotional Support Animals are not recognized as Service Animals but special accommodations can be made.

Service animals may accompany their owners on the Ichetucknee River in a dry vessel with a durable, stable bottom and minimum 6” sides that are defined as Class A Recreational Vessels by the FWC. These hard bottomed vessels provide for a different interaction with the water in a way that may be considered more safe for the service animal, the owner and other visitors. Canoes and kayaks are available for rental at the park’s concession.

Service animals are not allowed on tubes due to the nature of the potential interaction with the water. The river is a wilderness area, and we cannot assure the safety of service animals, the owner and other visitors. There have been instances of hazardous interactions with wildlife and service animals, specifically with alligators.

Service animals are not allowed in any of the swimming areas. These areas are considered public bathing areas and the Department of Health Regulations state that animals are not allowed in public bathing places.

For further clarification on Ichetucknee’s service animal policy, call the park at 386-497-4690. 

 

Spring Access

The park has one chairlift available for easier spring access. This is located at the Headspring and requires staff or volunteer assistance. For assistance, please notify a staff member upon arrival, or call the number provided at the chairlift. Visitors can also enter using the staircase with handrails. 

Entry into Blue Hole Spring is by a staircase with handrails. However, Blue Hole Spring should be used by strong swimmers only, due to its depth and strong current. 

Due to the natural conditions of the park, stairs leading in the springs may become slippery. 

 

River Access Points

North Vessel Launch

The North Vessel Launch is for paddling only; swimming & snorkeling are not permitted on this portion of the river.  

A wheelchair-friendly ramp leads to the fixed dock on the water. Paddlers can enter from the edge of the dock or utilize the kayak launch. The kayak launch provides a safe and stable cradle for boarding and unloading. Simply place your vessel on the launch and enjoy a sure footed and stable entry right above water level. Then tug yourself into the water using the paddle notches built into the launch walls.

Midpoint Launch

The Midpoint Launch is the northern-most starting point for tubing. Access is by a dirt path and long downward staircase with limited seating opportunities for a total of approximately 0.2 miles. The Midpoint Launch is an anchored dock over the water. There is no step down into the water, but a fixed, vertical metal-rung ladder is available for use. 

Look forward to updates to Midpoint Launch in late 2024! These renovations will include the installation of a ramp and easier entry into the water. 

Dampier’s Landing

Dampier’s Landing is the launch point for shorter trips down the river. It is a 0.25 mile paved trail with a ramp leading to the water. The paved ramp stops at the water’s edge. Entering the water is an uneven, rocky surface which slopes down gradually. 

South Takeout

South Takeout is the last exit point from the Ichetucknee River within the park’s boundaries, or the southernmost river access point. A paved pathway and ramp leads to the water’s edge. This pathway connects South Takeout to the wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and optional tram service. Entering the water is an uneven, rocky surface which slopes down gradually. Alternatively, there is also a concrete stairway with handrails within the water. 

Visitors headed downstream toward South Takeout will see signs notifying them of the upcoming exit point so they have ample time to prepare for the end of their journey. 

 

Tram Service

A wheelchair-accessible tram service is available for visitors all year, unless otherwise notified. This tram service brings visitors and their tubes to the Midpoint Launch and picks them up from South Takeout. It begins and ends adjacent to the General Store at the South Entrance. 

Transportation of wheelchairs or similar mobility devices is provided so that these are available upon arrival at South Takeout at the end of the tuber’s trip. 

A separate shuttle is available for visitors wishing to transport vessels. For questions about the tram and shuttle services, please call the general store at 386-497-1500 or visit ichetuckneesprings.com. 

 

Picnic Pads

Wheelchair accessible picnic tables placed on concrete pads are located at the south day-use area. An accessible picnic pad is also available in the north day-use area by the headspring.

 

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at all three sections of the park. The North Entrance has one restroom facility adjacent to the playground and picnic area. The south entrance has restrooms located in the general store and visitor center. Portable toilets are also available in the south entrance parking lot from April to September. Finally, south takeout has one restroom facility. 

Baby changing stations are available at the North bathhouse and South general store restrooms. All restrooms have at least one ADA-compliant stall.