Springs Fever: A Field & Recreation Guide to 500 Florida Springs.

Guaranto Spring

Dixie County

Summary of Features

  • Scale -2nd magnitude
  • Scenery -fair
  • How Pristine? -pool dammed, extensive hydrilla, land mostly cleared forpark
  • Swimming -poor
  • Protection -fair-good
  • Crowds -can be large on warm weekends
  • Access -good, need clear directions
  • Facilities -very good
  • Safety -unknown
  • Scuba -no
  • Cost -free

Directions

From Branford, drive 1 mile NW on U.S. 27. Turn left (south) onto SR349. Drive about 10 miles south and turn left (east) onto Rock Sink Church Road. Drive on (and remain on) main dirt road about 3 miles to the spring.

Spring Description

The spring and a manmade berm and culvert form an oblong pool that is 30-40 feet wide and 125 feet long before draining into the Suwannee River. The pool was choked with hydrilla and algae on date of visit in summer 1997. Steps lead to the spring from both sides, and there is a platform on the south side that extends to provide a view of the vent. The water was clear, blue over the vent, and 10 feet deep. There is a parking area on the south side of the spring, and a picnic shelter on the north side.

Use/Access

Personal Impressions

The spring is in need of exotic removal, which could be accomplished in a few hours. The berm constricts the natural cleansing flow of the spring and is also singularly unattractive. The spring and park are not appealing.

Nearby Springs

Other Nearby Natural Features