Of all the gorgeous state parks sprinkled throughout Florida, how do you choose? Beach, lake, springs, palm trees – take your pick. Among the ranks of the most beautiful is Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Located in High Springs, Florida, there are six natural springs spread throughout the area with sparkling blue water. And while you can visit for the day, camping here will enhance your experience. We recently took our RV for a trip around Florida and are sharing our Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park campground review for anyone interested in visiting.
What to do in Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
Because there are so many natural springs throughout the park, this tends to be the draw for most people. The biggest, known as Gilchrist Blue, has clear water and produces around 44 million gallons of water per day. Come ready for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. You’ll likely encounter a variety of fish and turtles swimming just under you. And when you want to dry off, there are several places to hike and picnic nearby.
Gilchrist Springs State Park is one of Florida’s newest state parks. It began as a privately owned park and was purchased by the state of Florida in 2017.
The Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
Compared to other Florida state parks, this one is relatively small. There are 15 spots with electric and water hookups that can accommodates RVs (up to 40 feet) and tents. There are another 8 spots that are tent only (one of which offers electricity and water hookups). All of the RV spots are back-in sites. Because there is ongoing work to add amenities, there is currently no sewer hookups or dump station. That is the one downside, especially if you’re spending considerable time here.
Sites in Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park are situated on sand, which is a fun change of pace.
When is the park open?
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is open year round. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. They also allow for same day reservations pending availability. As with most Florida state parks, the earlier you make your reservation, the better. This not only guarantees you a spot, but you’ll get your pick of spaces.
When compared to many state parks in Florida, Gilchrist Blue Springs tends to be a little more open. We checked about a month in advance and while most state parks were already reserved, we were able to snag the last spot in Gilchrist Blue Springs. That said, traveling during holidays and peak camping seasons may require booking earlier.
What are some of the amenities?
Other than the hookups and the springs themselves, Gilchrist Blue Springs offers plenty to keep you comfortable. There’s a convenient bathhouse, sand volleyball, and fire rings at each site. The one thing we would have loved is a small playground for the kids, but we weren’t staying that long and the springs provided enough fun to keep the kids busy.
Are dogs allowed at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park?
Guests staying at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park are allowed to bring dogs. Pets need to be leashed at all times (leash 6 feet or shorter) and well-behaved. Plus, the standard protocol of cleaning up after your pet. If these conditions are met, the park is completely dog-friendly.
If you’re visiting the state park, you’ll also be allowed to bring your dog, but stick to the designated areas.
How much does it cost to stay?
Campground fees are incredibly affordable at $18/night for both tent and RV sites. Many state parks charge around $35/night, so we find the nightly fee to be more fair. They do allow cancellations subject to a $17.75 fee any day prior to the arrival date. If you cancel the day of arrival, you’ll also be charged one night’s camping fee.
How is the wifi and cell reception?
We were planning to workcation here, but did our research up front. There is no wifi offered at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. And if you are planning to use a hotspot to stay connected, that will be difficult as well. Cell reception is very poor and most areas were a dead zone. I had difficulty placing a call or checking email on my phone. The park ranger told us there was one spot near the volleyball net, which is the secret sauce to getting reception. But alas, we couldn’t find it.
When staying at state parks, we never expect much in the way of cell reception, but something to keep in mind if that’s important to you.
Who would enjoy a stay at Gilchrist Springs State Park?
This park is for nature lovers and those who want to unplug. It’s full of beautiful cypress trees and sparkling springs. You won’t find too many modern amenities here that you would at an RV park. Instead you’ll be treated to a more traditional camping experience.
It’s an affordable place to get outside and enjoy nature. You’ll have the opportunity to go a little off grid while still 10-15 minutes from stores and restaurants.
If you’re looking for a good weekend retreat (full of hiking, swimming, and kayaking), you’ll get it here.
What are your favorite Florida state parks?
You may also like:
