Who is this for?
This article is to help anyone who wants to visit Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park learn more about the area.
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Stay at Vista Verde Farm Retreat
Welcome to the heart of Northern Florida! Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the perfect place to be any time of the year. Just five miles west of High Springs, this piece of nature invites guests to experience its crystal-clear springs, wildlife of all kinds, and tranquil forest trails. This destination is well worth the trip and will stun you with its many opportunities for adventure or relaxation.
Discover Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
The park is named after Ruth B. Kirby, a pioneering woman who fell in love with Florida's natural beauty. In the 1930s, Ruth moved from Alabama to Florida, where she worked as a secretary. Over time, she became a trusted advisor and investor alongside businessman Ed C. Wright.
Ruth and Ed remained close until his passing. Afterward, Ruth inherited his estate and chose to retain Gilchrist Blue Springs along with nearby Troy Springs. For nearly 60 years, Ruth and her family operated Gilchrist Blue Springs as a private retreat that was open to the public. In 2017, the family sold it to the state to ensure its protection for future generations. In 2019, this beautiful piece of land was officially renamed Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
The Woman Behind the Name: Ruth B. Kirby
Explore the Springs
When planning your trip to the park, remember to bring some change as there is a parking fee for each of your vehicles. You should consider coming earlier, as groups get turned away once the parking lot is full. Once you have paid your dues, you get to enjoy the park from 8 a.m. until the sun sets into the wooded terrain.
Gilchrist Blue Spring
The park is home to Gilchrist Blue Spring, a second-magnitude spring, referring to the over 40 million gallons of water pumped out daily. Its shallow waters eventually flow into the Santa Fe River’s southern shore in the park.
The Other Four Springs
There are four other smaller springs that are connected by the looped hiking trail. They include Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring, and Johnson Spring. All of them are worth the visit and will make sure your camera gets some overtime in.
The springs at Gilchrist Blue are ideal for all kinds of water fun. Even though the water's edge is beautiful, you should pack a swimsuit to get the most out of these refreshing waters.
- Swimming: A favorite activity among those who visit, thanks to the pristine waters that remain around 70 degrees year-round.
- Snorkeling: For those seeking a closer look underwater, snorkeling provides incredible visibility to observe fish and aquatic plants. If you prefer to float instead, paddling along the spring run or the nearby Santa Fe River is both relaxing and picturesque.
- Paddleboards and kayaks: For those looking to spend time on the water rather than in it, paddleboards and kayaks are an excellent activity. These are available for rent right in the park, making it easy for first-time explorers to dive right in.
- Enjoy the Wildlife: The park’s clear waters and thriving spring run provide a habitat for classic Floridian animals. Visitors might encounter manatees, turtles, and many species of fish. Some common fish include bass, bluegill, sunfish, and catfish.
Tip from the owner of Vista Verde Farm Retreat:
"I, personally, love this spring and visit it a few times every year. The section where the main spring flows into the Santa Fe is fairly long, crystal clear, and worth checking out. …the more adventurous [visitors] might appreciate knowing that, so they can venture out to check it out."
Fun on the Water
There’s just as much to enjoy on land as in the water. The park features a looping hiking trail through shaded forests where you can learn about native plants and animals. Whether you're taking a short walk or embarking on a longer nature study, the path is great for families and casual hikers as it is only about 1.5 miles long.
After your hike, savor a meal at one of the picnic tables or in the covered pavilions. Bring something from the local restaurants in High Springs, or pack your own homemade meal. These locations are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the serene views.
Fun on Dry Land
Make Your Stay Even Better at Vista Verde Farm Retreat
Looking to make the most of your visit to Blue Springs? Book your stay at Vista Verde Farm Retreat. Our peaceful, private retreat offers you modern comfort just minutes away from the park.
Imagine relaxing after a day of paddling or swimming, and enjoying a quiet evening under the stars. Vista Verde is the perfect home base for your Florida nature adventure. Choose from our
RV sites and
cabins, or
book the entire farm for a family retreat!
Book today and experience wild beauty and warm hospitality.
