March 10, 2017
We hiked a very pretty trail in O’Lena State Park along the Santa Fe River. A very unique aspect of this river is that it goes under ground for about five miles, then pops back up. This provided a land bridge for travel for thousands of years. After lunch we drove to the Ichetucknee River in Ichetucknee Springs State Park. This river is fed by lots of springs and has a good flow of crystal clear water and joins the Santa Fe. This is a smaller stream and absolutely gorgeous. We hope to float it on our way back north. It can be a two-hour trip or a six hour trip if you float into the Santa Fe. Kayak rental is $20 and a $10 pick-up fee. This is a popular spot for tubing in warmer months.
We enjoyed the sandy campground in O’Lena State Park. They are large sites, and we enjoyed our neighbors. We would certainly love to return.
In fact thinking about it, never mind the snakes what about those alligators getting too close to your kayaks, yikes!
With a little experience now, I think the alligators are of little threat. Of course anything can happen. Then again, snakes dropping into your canoe wakes me up at night!
Greg, We tubed the Ichetucknee numerous times while at U of Florida. We would tie tubes together and tie on a flat lounge chair for the kids. Our fraternity would run a boat up and down the river with a keg tied to the front to refill beer cups. Larry
Ah, those were the good old days Larry! What a beautiful river the Ichetucknee is! We will be back!