High Springs and Suwannee Springs

Skill and Site Separation

Only dive overhead spaces when your training, current configuration, navigation procedures and site rules specifically permit them. An Open Water card and a visible entrance do not establish permission for every cavern or cave. Ginnie Ballroom has a specific operator rule allowing certified divers of all experience levels with lights; obtain an appropriate site briefing and overhead training rather than extending that exception to the Devil’s system or other specialist routes. Parks impose different light, DPV, certification and instructor restrictions; do not use an underwater light in prohibited recreational entries. Follow required buddy, sign-in and sunset cutoff policies.

Water and River Hazards

The Suwannee River can inundate spring runs with dark water, sharply reducing visibility. Review Manatee Springs guidance and river gauges, but always use direct site checks. Spring flow can be strong, especially at deep vents. Navigable river snorkeling and scuba require compliance with Florida divers-down signaling rules.

Freediving and Swim Safety

Never freedive alone, hyperventilate, attempt cave penetration on a breath hold or rely on an untrained surface observer. Use directly attentive one-up-one-down rescue partners and trained staff for depth sessions. DAN discusses blackout risks. Avoid abrupt storms, impaired swimming, busy launch channels and wildlife contact. Most parks do not provide guaranteed lifeguard coverage.

Call 911 for emergency medical response and identify the exact park, spring entrance or trail access point. After local EMS is activated, call Divers Alert Network at +1-919-684-9111 for diving-specific medical guidance and referral. Do not self-drive a suspected decompression injury to an assumed chamber or delay EMS while searching for one; local treatment and any recompression transfer should be coordinated by clinicians. Rural sites may require additional overland transport and cell coverage may vary. Carry an emergency action plan, oxygen if trained and required for the activity, and coverage that explicitly addresses the scuba or overhead profile. Source: DAN emergency assistance.

Florida spring basins and aquifer systems are sensitive to foot traffic, sediment disturbance, litter and contamination. Stay in posted entry points, avoid stirring sediment and damaging aquatic plants, do not disturb rocks, fossils or artifacts, and leave Troy Spring's Madison remains untouched. State-park rules impose a minimum distance of 15.2 m from manatees for scuba and may temporarily limit diving for their protection. Keep to designated paths during spring restoration at Gilchrist and Poe rather than bypassing closures. Use refillable water containers and respect county and park rules for food, pets and paddling access.