Blue Hole (Big Pine Key)

The Blue Hole is a flooded former rock quarry located in Big Pine Key, Florida, in the United States. It is part of the National Key Deer Refuge and is a popular spot for wildlife viewing, particularly for the endangered Key deer.

The quarry was originally used for extracting rock to build roads and bridges in the Florida Keys. After the quarry was abandoned, it filled with freshwater, creating a sinkhole-like environment. This freshwater lens attracts a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, snakes, various species of fish, and birds. It’s a particularly important source of fresh water for Key deer, especially during the dry season.

The Blue Hole is accessible to the public via a short trail from a designated parking area within the National Key Deer Refuge. Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance from the water’s edge due to the presence of alligators and other wildlife. Swimming is prohibited in the Blue Hole. The area provides educational opportunities about the unique ecosystem of the Florida Keys and the importance of wildlife conservation efforts.