Located near Vernon, Cypress Springs is one of the most magnificent springs in Northwest Florida, with its powerful stream, verdant banks, and deep blue waters. These appealing azure waters have long been a favorite among residents looking for a less touristic area for leisure and pleasure.
Second-Magnitude Springs
Cypress Springs is a magnitude two spring that feeds Holmes Creek. Featuring a large basin about 150 feet wide and a maximum depth of 29 feet, the mineral-infused waters are a popular stop on a boating trip. Around 65 million gallons of freshwater flow through the area daily and produce a relatively calm current of about 1 or 2 miles per hour.
The water temperature hovers at around 68-70℉ year-round. The site is an attractive place for adventure seekers to hunt for a more rural location to do some water recreation.
The banks surrounding the pool are densely forested with cypress and tupelo trees. The spring emerges from two vents in the limestone rocks at the spring pool’s bottom, visible from its surface boil.
Swimming, Snorkeling, Paddling and Other Activities
Kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing are the top things to do in Cypress Springs, mainly because that’s the only real way to get there. After arriving, explore the water by swimming or snorkeling to observe the fish, turtles, and other wildlife that live in it. The waters are usually crystal-clear and boast a blue tint, offering plenty of great photo opportunities too.
Guided eco-tours of the spring are available to book, but visitors can also rent a vessel to explore the waterways independently. Equipment reservations in advance are highly recommended during peak seasons like the summer and spring break. It’s also a good idea to check water levels before heading to the creek, which can sometimes be too high after heavy rain.
Cypress Springs Adventures is a local outfitter. They rent out both single and double-person kayaks, as well as two and three-person canoes. There are no children under 2 or pets permitted in their watercraft. Shuttles are included in the rates. You can also request they shuttle your own personal boat if you’re bringing one and need assistance.
Getting There
The spring is on private land, so the only way to access it is through the water on Holmes Creek, a state-designated canoe trail. Visitors with their own boats can use many launch points along the creek to paddle up to the spring, depending on the designed journey length. Cotton Launch and Culpepper Launch are two of the closest and most popular places to put boats in the water.
Details
Address: 3081 Big Pine Ln, Vernon, Florida 32462 (Culpepper Launch)
Season: Year-round
7 Natural Springs near Destin, Florida