Jack Paul Spring
Washington County
Summary of Features
- Scale - 2nd magnitude (estimated)
- Scenery - very good to fine
- How Pristine? - cleared land above, and road and along springs
- Swimming - fair-good
- Protection - unknown
- Crowds - none
- Access - time-consuming, by water only
- Facilities - none
- Safety - good
- Scuba - no
- Cost - free
Quick Directions
On Holmes Creek north of Vernon. From center of Vernon, go south on State Road 79 about 2 miles and then turn right (west) onto Two Creek Boulevard. Continue 1/2 mile, then turn right onto Keen Kutter Roadand proceed to boat ramp on Holmes Creek. Go upriver about 1.5 miles and look for mouth of Jack Paul Spring run on the right.
Spring Description
At least three spring flows form a half-mile run that discharges into Holmes Creek. The main springs lie at the head of the run and consists of two limestone openings at depths of about 10 feet. The larger opening is 6-7 feet in diameter and creates a large (10 feet across) and strong boil on the surface. The smaller opening is about 60% as big, and its limestone was more difficult to see. Both issue clear, blue-green water. The springs form a semicircular pool about 35 feet wide and a run of roughly equal width.
The third vent is about 300 feet downstream of the head of the run. It is limestone opening at a depth of about 10 feet is and 3 x 5 feet in diameter. It issues clear blue water that is a contrast to the green vegetation around it, and creates a good boil on the surface. There is a large cypress stump on the bank nearby.
The bottom of the run is mostly covered in water plants and algae, withsome sandy and muddy areas. The run varies in depth from 1-8 feet (averages about 5 feet), and sections are partially obstructed by fallen trees. Large grass carp were observed as well as mullet, turtles, and minnows. Much of the run is paralleled one one side by a raised bank (about 4 feet) with a dirt road leading from the landowner's house to the springhead. Land on this side is higher and drier than land n the other (river) side which consists of floodplain forest. The upper portion of the run is sunny, and the lower portion is completely canopied.
Use/Access
- The land east of the spring is private property, but visitors can go up the run as long as they do not make landfall on that east side.
- The springhead area appears to be used as a swim and picnic area by the landowners.
Nearby Springs
- Jackson Spring
- Ponce de Leon Springs
- Vortex Spring
- Cypress Spring
- Beckton Spring
- Hightower Springs
- Brunson Landing Springs
- Piney Woods Spring
- Shellcracker Springs
- Other Holmes Creek Springs
- Morrison Spring
Other Nearby Natural Features
- St. Andrews State Recreation Area
- Falling Waters State Recreation Area