Hospital Hole

Hospital Hole is a popular spring on the Weeki Wachee River. It’s, also known as Fish Hospital, is nestled in a sharp curve of the Weeki Wachee River, 

Hospital Hole is located approximately 1,000 feet upstream from the State Hwy 595 bridge, also known as highway 597. 

This is one of my favorite springs in Florida. spot, a personal favorite of mine, lies in the river’s third bend south of Roger’s Park. 

Hospital Hole is also known as “Fish Hospital”. It got its name from a local legend that says the spring has healing waters, which fish would seek out to heal themselves when sick or injured. 

There is no land access to Hospital Hole Spring due to private property. But, the spring is accessible by the river – mostly kayak, SUP or canoe – from Roger’s Park. 

Roger’s Park is open year-round. It has a boat dock and boat launch ramp. There may be a fee to park at Roger’s Park, so it’s a good idea to bring cash and look it up in advance. 

Hospital Hole is a flooded sinkhole. It is approximately 150 feet in diameter, with maximum depths of approximately 140 feet. There are several spring vents and solution holes in and around the main sinkhole. There are some overhangs. 

There is a thick layer of hydrogen sulfide at approximately 70 feet; only experienced and property trained, certified cave divers should descend beyond this layer, as lack of light and other factors may pose serious dangers. There is a small jon boat at the bottom of the cavern.

Hospital Hole is also a popular place for paddlers to see manatees, especially during periods of cold weather. Visitors should be careful not to disturb manatees becuase it may deprive them of their warm-water refuge, leading to injury or death.

There are other springs along the Weeki Wachee River.