The Ichetucknee River Rising up from deep beneath the surface of Florida's cavernous aquifer the pristine waters of the Ichetucknee River are absolutely the cleanest in all of Florida. These waters give rise to a spectacular and complex ecosystem both on land and under water. Its shores are lined with ancient old growth cypress and mixed hardwood forests that are home to many species of rare birds, mammals and reptiles. Manatees, otters and beavers play in her waters. Hawks, Eagles and Kites soar above the old growth forests as the crystal clear river winds its way down to join the Santa Fe River, the Suwannee River and eventually the Gulf of Mexico.