DIVE AND EXPLORE A CIVIL WAR-ERA SHIPWRECK IN TROY SPRING STATE PARK
History is all around us, but sometimes you have to go looking a bit deeper than the surface. At the Troy Spring State Park in Branford, Florida, this couldn’t be more true. Offering plenty of great amenities, and a unique attraction, the shipwreck of the Madison, Troy Spring State Park offers adventurers the opportunity to combine both recreation and deep sea treasure hunting. Even if you don’t submerge yourself completely, there are still plenty of great recreational opportunities. And, on days with the right conditions, you can even see the wreck from the surface.
Troy Spring State Park: A Hidden Gem in Florida
Off US 27 just north of Branford, Florida, you’ll find the Troy Spring State Park offering access to one of the state’s first magnitude springs for visitors to enjoy.This is a great place to relax, explore, and get back in touch with nature. That is because there are plenty of great amenities without taking away from the area’s natural beauty.You can even bring dogs, though they can’t enter the spring. They must always be on a 6-foot handheld leash, and cannot be left unattended for more than half an hour.Among many things to do, visitors are invited to boat and launch canoes/kayaks, though you’ll need to be able to carry them for 200 yards.Fishing is allowed and is a fun activity for all. However, if you don’t want to enjoy the water, there is also a half-mile nature trail, and geo-seeking opportunities available.But one of the main draws here is the chance to swim and dive in a Civil War-era shipwreck.Regardless of why you visit, whether you’re looking to enjoy some time outdoors, are planning a reunion, or just want a bit of adventure, the Troy Spring State Park has something for everyone.
Diving and Swimming
Featuring water temperatures that remain around 72 degrees, Troy Spring State Park is well known as a place to take a dip and cool off from the Florida heat.The property has been a popular swimming and diving destination for generations, with clear, colorful waters and a rich history.There are shallow and deep areas found throughout the spring. This makes it the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and diving among the vibrant aquatic environment.Keep in mind divers can explore the spring's depths, which descend 70 feet, but must have an open water certification and follow the park’s safety regulations.Cave diving and the use of lights are not permitted but you can still admire limestone formations and the water vent.Be sure to keep up to date with the water conditions. There may be restrictions for accessing the water, including swimming.If you’re diving, you’re also going to need to finish at least an hour before sunset, while also bringing a friend as solo diving is not allowed.Troy Spring State Park provides a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. It offers activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving in a natural setting, but there’s also one of the Civil War shipwrecks in Florida onsite to explore.The sunken wreck of the Civil War-era ship Madison can be explored near the mouth of the spring, visible on clear water days.
Exploring the Steamship Madison That Served Many Purposes
The steamship Madison is a Civil War relic now lying at the bottom of the river, visible at Troy Spring State Park.Built in 1854 by Captain James M. Tucker, the Madison was used as a floating store and mail carrier along the Suwannee River.The ship's shallow hull allowed it to navigate farther up the Suwannee than other vessels, making it a crucial means of transportation for bringing supplies to the Confederacy despite lacking weaponry.However, as Union forces advanced, Tucker scuttled the ship to prevent it from being captured and used by the enemy.It was his prized possession. Many historians speculate that the ship may have been intended for recovery after the war.However, a lot of its machinery was stolen after it sank, rendering it useless, and left to lie where it remains today.Today, the ship's outline can be seen by snorkelers and divers who visit the Troy Spring State Park.Even those walking along the boardwalk may catch a glimpse when the water is clear.
Plan Your Visit to the Troy Spring State Park
If you love exploring the outdoors, relaxing in nature, or visiting history, taking a trip to the Troy Spring State Park is Florida entertainment unlike any other.When planning your trip to the park, here are a few key pieces of information you should know:
- Camping in the park isn’t available, but there are several nearby sites in the area.
- The park is open every day of the year from 8:00 a.m. until sunset.
- Address: 674 NE Troy Springs Rd, Branford, FL 32008
- Phone: (386) 935-4835
- Admission:
- $5 per group (limit 8 people)
- $4 per single-occupant vehicle
- $2 per person when holding an Annual Individual Entrance Pass
The Troy Spring State Park is an adventure awaiting anyone willing to dive right in and take it on.Suggested reads: