Dora and Apopka. Credit: sun dazed via Flickr. Photo Credit: Florida State Parks, Other things to do at Rainbow Springs State Park: Camping, Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboard, Geocaching Admission: $2 per person. The 1,000 feet of subterranean channels beneath a 50-foot head spring that lead to another mind-boggling 30,000 feet of passages are the crown and pearl of this location, a haven for cave and open-water divers seeking adventure. Tobacco and alcohol are restricted in the area. 634 NW 2nd Ave Crystal River, Florida 34429 (352) 795-4216 Visit Website. WebSprings in Florida. Park at the South Entrance for Tubing. Make a stop at Fanning Springs State Park for a relaxing afternoon of swimming and picnicking. There are no refunds due to inclement weather or show cancellations, plan accordingly. You wont regret it!) There also is a tiny swimming hole and trails to explore for those who are not interested in cave diving. She has written travel articles on destinations across Africa and beyond. WebSprings in Florida. (The website says on a typical summer day, people line up very early and could reach capacity upon opening) Check the website or call 407-254-1906 for capacity info. Other things to do at Kelly Park and Rock Springs: Hiking, Camping Admission: $3 for 1 2 people, $5 for 3 8 people Location: 400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka, FL 32712 Kelly Park-Rock Springs is located north of Orlando, near Mt. Others hire kayaks and canoes, so they can better appreciate the enormous areas that feed into local rivers. Explore our major springs to swim, snorkel, and paddle. Tourists mainly flock to this place as it is regarded as one of the naturally blessed springs close to Tampa. 13 Most Insane Abandoned Places In Florida You Have To See, 13 Best Party Beaches in Florida For Good Music and Dance, Kids' Choice: 9 Best Zoos in Florida for Family Adventures, 10 Best Campsites in Florida You should Reserve Right Now, 11 Best Gay Beaches in Florida: Soak Up the Sun at LGBTQ Beaches, 11 Best Miami Souvenirs You Want to Bring Back from Florida, 12 Best Places to Live in Florida in 2023, 8 Prettiest Springs in Ocala That Everyone Must Visit, 22 Exciting Things To Do In Anna Maria Island, FL 2023. Offering a range of outdoor activities throughout the year, these are some of the best springs in Florida to go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, hiking and fishing. Explore our major springs to swim, snorkel, and paddle. This place is lauded as the best swimming springs near Tampa. If ever there was a Fountain of Youth, this must be the place. Photo Credit: Hillsborough County Parks, Capacity Info: Swim times will be divided into two, four-hour time slots (9am 1pm and 2pm 6pm) with a maximum capacity of 200 swimmers during each time slot. If you drive about 25 miles south of Lake City, you can swim in the clear waters along with a wide variety of native fish, turtles, and invertebrates that call this set of natural springs in Florida home. Make sure to visit with Lu the Hippo, one of Homosassa's most famous residents. Florida Springs Map: Find Springs Near You. Here are 20 of the best natural springs in Florida with some of the bluest waters in the world. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. Springs in Florida. Rock Springs is the name of the swimming springs near Tampa whose headwaters are found in Kelly Park. These are outdoor activities that are weather dependent. It is one of the most delightful springs in Tampa, shaped in the form of a pool. Depending on your location, some popular Florida springs for swimming include Ichetucknee Springs State Park near Gainesville, known for its pristine water and tubing adventures, and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park on the Gulf Coast, where you can swim in the spring-fed water and even catch a live Florida has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. Required fields are marked *. Be aware that other than a small wading area for toddlers, the water depth ranges from 5 to 18 feet deep so it isnt ideal for families with younger children. While Tallahassee is landlocked and not located on the Gulf Coast if you are willing to drive 30 minutes to two hours you will find not only some of the best beaches in Florida as but some of the best natural springs in Florida. Powered by Mai Theme, Tips For The Ringling Museum: A Sarasota Hidden Gem, Tips For Kayaking Emerald Cut At Kings Landing. Photo Credit: Florida State Parks, Floats: Floats and rafts are allowed in the swimming area, size limit of 5 feet for a circle or 4 feet by 6 feet for a rectangle Other things to Do at De Leon Springs State Park: Canoe & Kayak Rentals, Hiking, Fishing, Bird Watching Location: 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd., De Leon Springs, FL 32130 De Leon Springs State Park is near DeLand, approximately 30 miles west of Daytona Beach, an hour north of Orlando. Admission: $6 per vehicle, additional cost for restaurant, boat tours, rentals DeLeon Springs Website | Facebook, Take a swim in crystal-clear Wekiwa Springs where the water is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. Credit: sun dazed via Flickr. Limit of 3,000 tubers per day from the Midpoint launch, which is the longer tube ride. Dont miss the jumping platform! The spring water is very refreshing and open to all tourists. With a chance to spot a turtle swimming through the lilies, this area is a great place to snorkel and gawk at the plethora of colorful fish in its first-magnitude spring. Exotic fish and manatees can be seen in their waterways because they are so pristine. DeLeon Springs State Park Distance from UCF: About an hour to an hour and 20 minutes; 50 miles Entrance fee: $6 per vehicle DeLeon Springs State Park is a scenic getaway in Volusia County packed with cultural history and a variety of nature activities. If you have a kayak, make sure to bring it along Fanning Springs feeds the legendary Suwannee River, so you'll definitely want to spend some time paddling while youre there. They dont typically interact with people, especially if you leave them alone. There are a handful of national parks with overnight camping options administered by Florida State Park. Florida has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. Swimming Rainbow Spring is known for its extraordinarily clear water and the headspring is open to swimmers. These natural swimming are year round attractions in Florida with temperatures that average 68-72 degrees all year! What was once home to native Mayaca people for 6,000 years is now a One can also go hiking along the trails, birding, and wildlife viewing here. You will also want to purchase tram transportation wristbands to get back to the parking lot when you are done tubing. Columns of sunlight reflect off of glistening swarms of fish and manatees in an incredibly transparent topaz environment that defies imagination. Floridas natural wonder like no other. Photo Credit: Adventure Ocala, Capacity Info: The gate to Silver Glen Springs will only open twice per day at 8am until full, and again at 2pm until full. The large swimming area has a beach on one end, a sandy bottom, and most areas are shallow enough to stand up, making it a great place for families to cool off and swim in this salt-free, natural pool. It is not one in, one out, so be sure if you are going with friends, you all arrive together. WebMany Florida springs offer swimming, snorkeling, diving, photography, camping, canoeing, tubing or kayaking in water with a constant average temperature of 72 degrees. Here are 20 of the best natural springs in Florida with some of the bluest waters in the world. Described by some as a natural lazy river, Rock Springs Run at Kelly Park is a popular spot to cool off in Central Florida. Enjoy swimming, diving, and exploring these Ocala natural springs including Rainbow Springs. The place is full of tourists enjoying and having a, Read More 11 Best Miami Souvenirs You Want to Bring Back from FloridaContinue, As someone who was born and raised in the United States (Florida to be exact), I was surprised to discover such a beautiful state in the Southeastern region of the United States. Lawton Chiles. Springs are naturally fed by fresh water from the Florida Aquifer. Round out the whole experience with a kayak trip on the Weeki Wachee River, one of the most scenic paddling trips found anywhere. Parking passes must be purchased online, and are available up to 14 days in advance of visit. Location: 13851 North Highway 19, Salt Springs, FL Silver Glen Springs is 30 miles northeast of Ocala Adventure Ocala Website | USDA Website | Facebook. The vast area for swimming is filled with little limestones and white sand. These natural swimming are year round attractions in Florida with temperatures that average 68-72 degrees all year! You can bring in coolers but no glass or alcohol. In this gorgeous spring in Florida, snorkelers and scuba divers can discover a little more fun in the waters. From manatee spotting to snorkeling in emerald waters, here are the top springs in Central Florida. Rock Springs is the name of the swimming springs near Tampa whose headwaters are found in Kelly Park. The freshwater outlets into a series of pools, with throngs of people grabbing tubes and floating down a quarter-mile along the crystal-clear waters. Fee: Adults need to pay $13 while children aged 6-12 must pay $8 to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural springs near Tampa. You wont regret it!) 634 NW 2nd Ave Crystal River, Florida 34429 (352) 795-4216 Visit Website. Salt Springs is one of the prettiest and most unique springs in Florida. It has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. Security maintains a tight check and it is important to preserve one of the most beautiful springs in Tampa. Children under 6 are free. The largest spring on the St. Johns River, Blue Springs State Park boasts 2,600 acres and is a manatee refuge. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. Silver Springs: Best Springs Near Tampa While there are hundreds of springs spread across Florida, only a select number of them are open to the public for swimming. Silver River, a 4.5-mile stream that flows east from the springs to the Ocklawaha River, is adorned with beautiful and protected banks along with wild jungle compliments to its beauty. Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. [x-cloak]{display:none!important}. Freshwater springs are the ultimate year-round Florida attraction, and we've got more of these crystal-clear natural wonders than any other place in the country. "dateModified": "2022-04-26", Tip: Never miss the famous mermaid shows and while out kayaking with kids, use proper safety gear. Many Florida springs offer swimming, snorkeling, diving, photography, camping, canoeing, tubing or kayaking in water with a constant average temperature of 72 degrees. Visit Website, 4150 S Suncoast Blvd Salt Springs. Most springs stay around 70-72 degrees year-round, providing a refreshing place to swim and go Florida springs tubing for a day of outdoor fun. The next three stops happen right along scenic U.S. 19 along Florida's Nature Coast. Homosassa, Florida 34448 They perform in the aquamarine water that flows from a first-magnitude spring. The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant Cook-your-own pancakes right at the table and enjoy freshly made bread and cookies. Tubing Tube the Ichetucknee River on your choice of a 45 minute or 1.5 hour float trip. Most people dont associate Florida with natural springs. Hikers can also choose from three hiking trails, all of which have entrances to the north side of the river. Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs offer glass-bottom boat tours. Round rings and blow up toys are allowed in the shallow areas. The place has the power to satisfy the urge to taste outdoor adventure. Offering a range of outdoor activities throughout the year, these are some of the best springs in Florida to go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, hiking and fishing. You wont regret it!) The 33 recognized first magnitude springs in Florida are scattered in the northern peninsula and the eastern panhandle where the limestone of the Floridan Aquifer arches close to the surface. The swimming area is a constant 72 degrees, and depths range from 18 inches to 30 feet at the spring boil. Folks, this is manatee country. Florida has so many springs that our state geological survey ranks these by size based on how much water comes out of them. With five natural springs, Lake Crystal and a lush wetland, this 57-acre natural oasis is known for its unspoiled and undeveloped spring habitat, making it a prime manatee viewing spot. WebMany Florida springs offer swimming, snorkeling, diving, photography, camping, canoeing, tubing or kayaking in water with a constant average temperature of 72 degrees. 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Sandy beaches, flora and fauna, trails, and parks camping is the best way to take in everything that Florida has to offer. Tip: Never miss the famous mermaid shows and while out kayaking with kids, use proper safety gear. Swimmers can enjoy the gorgeous blues and greens of the Florida natural springs while divers may explore the freshwater cave system, which has been verified to be the deepest in North America. At the Camping and Equestrian Entrances the cost is $8.00 per vehicle with 2 to 8 occupants, $5.00 for single occupant vehicles. Three of the four thrilling slides drop you off in natural Weeki Wachee Springs for a chilling yet refreshing splash into the 72 degree water. { Tubing is available seasonally: Daily during the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), and weekends in April, May, and September. Nature Travel 16 Most Beautiful Freshwater Springs in Florida Crystal-clear and a refreshing temperature year-round, Florida's springs are the swimming holes of your dreams. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. There are multiple options for swimming springs near Lakeland and within a 2 hour drive. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Any reference made here to local businesses, products, organizations, services, classes, etc. The grounds also offer RV parking, pavilions, and walks of nature, making it one of the ideal places for a quiet picnic with family members or a romantic getaway. It sits in the North Central part of Florida encompassing over 600 sq. Water shoes / shoes you dont mind getting wet (these arent required but many spring areas can be slippery or have rocky bottoms), Alexander Springs Recreation Area Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs Recreation Area Ocala National Forest, Silver Glen Springs Ocala National Forest, Ocala National Forest Salt Springs Recreation Area, Tips for Tubing in Florida or visiting Springs in Florida. Florida springs near me to swim. Not only Fanning Springs is famous for being one of the most popular springs around Tampa, but it is also producing 65 million gallons of water every day, making it a second-magnitude spring. River safari adventures are also available for tourists. Its proximity to Orlando attractions makes it a great day trip , especially if youre sick of theme parks. We know you are busy parents and promise to keep them short, sweet, useful, and only once a week. Crystal River, Florida 34429 You can check current capacity on the website, weekends frequently reach capacity. Floats: Arm floaties/life vests are allowed in all parts of the spring. 4150 S Suncoast Blvd Homosassa, Florida 34446 (352) 628-5343 Visit Website. Details. Use this map to find Florida springs near you. The entire place is beautifully surrounded by forests of maples, sweetgum, and cabbage palms. A visit to the Fern Hammock Springs is highly recommended for all tourists. Many natural springs are open to the public year-round near Orlando and are all popular destinations for swimming, boating, camping, and more. For starters, this is the deepest freshwater spring in the world; don't miss a chance to perform your best cannonball from the swimming platform. It was previously known as Blue Springs. Details Map. If you drive about 25 miles south of Lake City, you can swim in the clear waters along with a wide variety of native fish, turtles, and invertebrates that call this set of natural springs in Florida home. These naturally adorned springs, surrounded by lush forests and exciting wildlife, makes it even more of an exciting adventure. The blue-green waters, ideal for taking a swim, snorkeling, and sunbathing, will steal your breath away and are among the greatest in Florida, but what lies beneath the surface will spark ones attention; Tilapia, striped bass, and a variety of other species can be found floating over the shallow sandy floor. Welcome to the Manatee Capital of The World! These natural swimming are year round attractions in Florida with temperatures that average 68-72 degrees all year! Whether optingfor the comfort of an RV,, Read More 10 Best Campsites in Florida You should Reserve Right NowContinue, With the temperature heating up, it is ideal to drop off your towel, hit the sand, kayak with manatees, swim with beautiful sea cows, and explore the beaches. Madison Blue Springs State Park, Madison 5. While Lakeland has an abundance of beautiful lakes, there are no swimming springs in Lakeland or Polk County. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. 1. Crystal River is only accessible by boat and has acquired the moniker "water lover's paradise" due to the abundance of activities and wildlife to see. It's a no-frills, easygoing adventure that can be enjoyed by all, no matter if youre 8 or 80. Trust me, this is Old Florida at its finest and one of the best springs in North Florida. We are obsessed and think Gilchrist Blue is truly one of the best springs in Florida! 9. Floats: There are no tube rentals inside the park. All of the above-mentioned beautifulsprings near Tampaare famous tourists spots. Boat cruises and the unique opportunity to swim in the clear waters at Buccaneer Bay. 8950 W Bluebird Springs Ln If you buy something through one of those links, you wont pay any extra penny, but Ill get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you. WebLooking for natural springs near Ocala/Marion County, Florida? Ages 5 & up. Many recreational activities may also be found like hiking, camping, paddling across the beautiful river, a trip to the museum, etc. If you bring your own tube, it cannot exceed 60 inches in any two directions. Little Springs Park. 4. All rights reserved. It is one of the springs near Tampa, which is very famous for its beautiful picnic locations since the 1900s. Bicycles and pets are not allowed in the area. Only in the designated swimming area at Buc Bay, one can enjoy swimming. The thought will cross your mind more than once when you first see one of Floridas incredible natural springs. Looking for natural springs near Ocala/Marion County, Florida? 1. Many of the springs listed below also offer kayak rentals on site. Gilchrist Blue Springs, High Springs 3. A large grassy lawn surrounds the swimming area, perfect for a picnic or afternoon nap in the sun. 9. Use this map to find Florida springs near you. It is a great opportunity to relax in a naturally beautiful setting, maintained strictly to offer great attractions. Map. The spring is also a significant archeological site, and visitors can see a variety of fossilized snail shells embedded in middens along the shoreline. The whole place is filled with the natural sounds of animals like turtles, birds, beaver, and wood ducks. Tip: Tourists should never miss the beautiful and unexpected oasis in the middle of the forest. A hotspot for outdoor photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, the Ocala National Forest boasts 360,000 acres of scenic hiking trails and natural wonders, including Juniper Springs Recreational Area. One of Americas largest springs with beautiful and crystal clear waters, it has been a top hit among couples looking for a romantic getaway in Florida. Swimming + Snorkeling You can swim or snorkel in the seven springs located on the Ginnie Springs property. A beautiful state park thats perfect for outdoor-loving families, Weeki Wachee Springs is world-famous for its underwater theater and enchanting mermaid shows. "datePublished": "2018-06-05", Floating above the shallow sandy bottom of this spring you can spot a mix of fresh and saltwater fish. Be sure to take the famous river cruise while youre there, too. Tourists can swim but only from 8 am to sunset time; this is restricted during thunderstorms or other bad weather conditions. Boat Tour The Fountain of Youth Eco/Heritage tour aboard the M/V Acuera, departing four times daily, is a 50-minute trip through De Leon Springs State Park and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Snorkelers and scuba divers flock to the springs because of the meandering labyrinth of underwater caverns. Swim in its emerald waters,enjoy a picnic surrounded by lush foliage or hop in a canoe for a scenic adventure.
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