flsprings.com | Florida Springs

Ponce de Leon Springs has a crescent-shaped pool that measures 105 ft (32m) north to south and 111 ft (33.8 m) east to west. There are at least three spring vents within the spring pool. The sampled vent is located in the northern section of the spring pool. The depth throughout the pool averages approximately 5 ft (1.5 m) deep, but it measures as much as 16.0 ft (4.9 m) deep over the vents. The bottom is sand and limestone is exposed near the vents. The water is clear and light greenish blue. There is a slight boil over the northern vent. There is sparse aquatic vegetation, but thick patches of algae are present on the bottom. Algal strands and particles also are suspended in the water. There are two cypress trees growing in the spring pool north and west of the sampled vent. Flow from the springs discharges over a weir designed to raise water levels in the spring pool suitable for swimming. There is a boardwalk over the weir that leads to hiking trails. The spring run exits the pool to the northwest. After a short distance, it veers back to the south, flowing into Sandy Creek approximately 350 ft (106.7 m) downstream. Land on the east side of the spring is a state recreation area developed for picnicking and swimming. From the spring pool, land on this side gently rises to approximately 8 ft (2.4 m) above spring water level. West of the spring, there are walking trails that lead through a heavily forested area associated with Sandy Creek.