Peacock Springs by the Suwannee River
Peacock Springs offers a glimpse into a wilder, more mysterious side of Florida. It’s a hidden gem for nature lovers in Florida.
Unlike the state’s bustling tourist destinations, Peacock Springs caters to outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers seeking a unique escape.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:
A Little Background on Peacock Springs
Peacock Springs, now known as Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, was established in 1972 and encompasses over 600 acres.
It’s located just off the Suwannee River Springs system, and one of many springs systems that feeds into it.
The water temperate, like the other nearby springs, is a chilly 72 degrees year round. Whether winter or summer, the water remains chilly which helps keep it clear and beautiful.
This park is home to a fascinating underwater cave system that attracts experienced cave divers worldwide.
There is a small daily entrance fee for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Explore the park’s scenic trails that weave through cypress swamps and hardwood forests.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, otters, and a variety of bird species.
- Picnicking: Pack a lunch and enjoy the designated picnic areas with stunning natural views.
Crowds and Peak Season
Peacock Springs experiences fewer crowds compared to other Florida springs due to the lack of swimming opportunities.
However, expect slightly more visitors during the cooler months (November-March) when the weather is ideal for hiking and exploring.
Kayaking and Canoeing to Peacock Springs from the Suwannee River
Paddling down the Suwannee River to Peacock Springs is an unforgettable adventure. The journey offers stunning scenery, a chance to encounter diverse wildlife, and a refreshing arrival at the pristine spring.
River Camps: If you’re paddling the Suwannee River, you can dock (or camp) at Peacock Springs Slough River Camp. The Peacock slough is an area with springs, sinks and trails within a very cool old Florida type of 30 minute walk. Make sure to have a map so you can try to find each of the springs and sinks!
Planning Your Trip: While kayaking or canoeing the Suwannee River is an amazing experience, it’s crucial to plan accordingly. Ensure you have the proper equipment, check water conditions, and research the distance of your chosen route.
Several outfitters in the area offer kayak and canoe rentals, guided tours, and even shuttle services to help you plan your river adventure.
Not the Best Springs for Your Kids to Enjoy
If you’re looking for a nice activity for your family, this park may not be the best choice. Peacock Springs isn’t one of the most popular for swimmers and vacationers. It won’t provide a great swimming opportunity for families most of the year.
The water here is often covered in duckweed and algae, not a favorite place families looking for a fun afternoon of swimming. And because there aren’t as many people that visit, there ARE alligators, though they haven’t seemed to pose a real threat in the park so far.
But for nature lovers, hikers, anyone interested in Florida and most especially for cave divers, this spot in Florida is an awesome place to visit!
Cave Diving
This Florida State Park is home to one of the best and well-known underwater cave systems to explore for cave divers! There’s a six mile underwater cave system mapped out and accessible year-round for experienced adventurous divers.
This underwater cave system is one of the largest in the U.S. A permit is needed to dive, and divers need to be experienced.
Important Note: Cave diving is an extremely dangerous activity that requires extensive training and specialized equipment. It’s not recommended for inexperienced divers.
Real, Rural Small Town Florida
But even if you aren’t a cave diver, this area is well worth exploring. It’s old Florida, natural and probably looks much like it did hundreds of years ago. The area itself was founded in the late 1800’s, part of the tiny little town of Luraville.
Luraville, Florida is currently an unincorporated area within Suwannee County and does have several shops but is tiny and maintains an old-Florida feel.
Hotels Near Peacock Springs
Due to its secluded location in Luraville, Florida, accommodation options near Peacock Springs are limited. However, roughly 15 miles away are some good hotel options that are usually pet-friendly, inexpensive, and some have free breakfast.
Here’s a list of hotels close to Peacock Springs, with current pricing and customer ratings, as well as easy booking options to start planning your trip.
Check Water Levels Before You Go
When planning a visit to Peacock Springs, it’s important to consider time of year, outdoor temperature and water levels. To check water levels, click here. You’ll want to look in the Suwannee Section under Luraville.
The water quality for swimming and visibility up top is heavily dependent on these factors. Most often, the surface of these springs is covered in green. Unknowing visitors view it as “dirty” but it is actually super clean!
Green duckweed and green algae are very natural aspects to any natural, shady, healthy ecosystem in that area of Florida, and most especially these springs and sinks.
Most often when visiting, the entire surface isn’t covered, which means it’s possible to see the color of water, a most beautiful “peacock” turquoise shade of crystal clear water.
Looking at the map above, you’ll see the Suwannee River just below the marker for Peacock Springs. The Peacock Springs Slough River Camp is located on the river (see map below).
If you are paddling the Suwannee and plan to spend a night at the river camp, there is an approximate 30 minute trail that will lead to Peacock Springs State Park.
Along the walk, if you have a map, you should be able to find all three springs (Peacock I, II and III) plus the three main sinks (Olsen, Orange Grove, Cisteen) though this will take some time to get to everything! There are interpretive trails, but no rangers so make sure to do your homework ahead of time.
A Little History of Peacock Springs
The history of this spring is interesting. Most people think Peacock Springs were named after the color of the water. And that would definitely make sense.
However, it was named after Dr. John Calvin Peacock in 1875. He wasn’t the founder of the town where these springs are located (Luraville), but he was one of the town’s most prominent residents. He was a medical doctor, pastor and business man.
The town had cattle and a phosphate mine. And the Florida Railway ran through it at some point (though not much information on this point in Florida history can be found).
