Green Cove Spring, Green Cove Springs, Florida

## Overview Green Cove Spring is a historic mineral-rich sulfur spring located in the heart of the city of Green Cove Springs, Florida — the very spring that gave the town its name. Situated along the western bank of the St. Johns River in Clay County, this natural blue spring flows at a reported rate of approximately 3,000 gallons per hour, feeding directly into the river's tranquil waters. Green Cove Springs has long been celebrated as one of Florida's premier healing springs destinations. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area attracted visitors from across the country who came seeking the reputed therapeutic benefits of its warm, sulfur-rich waters. Grand hotels and resorts once lined the riverfront, catering to health-seekers and winter tourists drawn by the spring's mineral content. The spring's water carries a distinctive sulfur character — a hallmark of many of Florida's most storied natural springs — and has historically been used as a drinking water source by the local population. According to longtime area residents, locals still visit the spring to collect water for personal use, though water quality should always be independently verified before consumption. Today, the spring is the centerpiece of Spring Park, a charming public park that also features a spring-fed swimming pool, a city pier extending into the St. Johns River, and scenic green spaces. The spring itself is publicly accessible year-round, making it a wonderful stop for anyone exploring Clay County or traveling south of Jacksonville. ## Directions 1. From Jacksonville, head south on US-17 toward Green Cove Springs (approximately 30 miles south of downtown Jacksonville). 2. Once in Green Cove Springs, make your way to the intersection of **South Magnolia Avenue** and **Spring Street** — the spring is located right at this corner. 3. The street address is **103 South Magnolia Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043**. 4. Spring Park and the spring itself are easily visible from the road. Parking is available nearby in the park area. ## What to Expect Visitors will find the spring nestled within **Spring Park**, a well-maintained public green space in downtown Green Cove Springs. The spring pool displays a beautiful blue hue characteristic of Florida's sulfur springs, and you may notice the telltale mineral smell associated with its sulfur-rich waters. The spring flows continuously into the St. Johns River, and the surrounding park offers a peaceful setting with mature trees, walkways, and river views. The **spring itself is open 24 hours a day, year-round**, so you can visit at your convenience. If you're interested in swimming, the adjacent **spring-fed swimming pool** is open during the summer months from **11:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, except Wednesdays** when it is closed. The pool offers a refreshing way to experience the spring water firsthand during warmer months. The park also features a pier on the St. Johns River, picnic areas, and a gazebo — making it a great spot to spend a leisurely afternoon. The downtown area of Green Cove Springs is walkable, with local shops and restaurants nearby. Whether you're a spring enthusiast, a history buff curious about Florida's golden age of healing springs tourism, or simply looking for a scenic and relaxing stop along the St. Johns River, Green Cove Spring is well worth a visit.