12 Best Springs In Florida

In this article, read about the best springs in Florida. Florida is known for its natural springs, which offer an array of recreational activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. 

ALSO READ: Ultimate Florida Itinerary 10 days – Best Of Florida Road trip (with Map + Key West)

Best Springs In Florida (Beautiful Florida Springs)

Here is a list of the best springs in Florida, along with their location, route, and nearby attractions:

Rainbow Springs State Park 

• Location – Rainbow Springs State Park is in Dunnellon, Florida, about 100 miles northwest of Orlando and 90 miles north of Tampa. 
• How to Reach: To reach the park, take the I-75 to exit 352, then head west on State Road 40 for approximately 15 miles. 

Rainbow Springs is one of the most beautiful and famous springs in Florida. 

Things To Do: Visitors can swim in the crystal clear waters, picnic, hike, or go tubing down the Rainbow River.

Silver Springs State Park 

• Location: Silver Springs State Park is in Ocala, Florida, about 85 miles northwest of Orlando. 
• How To Reach: To reach the park, take the I-75 to exit 352, then head east on State Road 40 for approximately 6 miles. 

Silver Springs is one of Florida’s oldest and most famous attractions. 

Things To Do: Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the underwater life, take a kayak or canoe tour, or go hiking or biking on the many trails in the park.

ALSO READ: California Hot Springs (11 Best Hot Springs in California)

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 

• Location: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is in Weeki Wachee, Florida, about 50 miles north of Tampa. 
• How To Reach – To reach the park, take the I-75 to exit 301, then head west on State Road 50 for approximately 8 miles. 

Weeki Wachee Springs is famous for its live mermaid shows, but it’s also a great place to swim, snorkel, and kayak. 

Things To Do: Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes to explore the Weeki Wachee River, known for its crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife.

Ginnie Springs 

• Location: Ginnie Springs is located in High Springs, Florida, about 90 miles northwest of Jacksonville. 
• How to Reach – To reach the park, take the I-75 to exit 404, then head west on State Road 47 for approximately 7 miles. 

Ginnie Springs is one of the most popular scuba diving and snorkeling springs. 

Things To Do: The park has seven freshwater springs and offers camping, tubing, and kayaking.

Blue Spring State Park 

• Location: Blue Spring State Park is in Orange City, Florida, about 30 miles north of Orlando. 
• How To Reach – To reach the park, take the I-4 to exit 114, then head west on State Road 472 for approximately 2 miles. 

Blue Spring is a designated manatee refuge. 

Things To Do – Visitors can observe these gentle giants from a boardwalk or take a guided river tour. The park also offers swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

• Location: Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located in Fort White, Florida, about 80 miles west of Jacksonville.  
• How To Reach – To reach the park, take the I-75 to exit 414, then head east on State Road 47 for approximately 11 miles. 

Ichetucknee Springs is a popular spot for tubing down the Ichetucknee River. 

Things To Do: The park also offers swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.

Wakulla Springs State Park 

• Location: Wakulla Springs State Park is in Wakulla Springs, Florida, about 15 miles south of Tallahassee. 
• How To reach: Take the US-319 south for approximately 10 miles to the park.

Wakulla Springs is one of the largest freshwater springs in the world and is known for its clear waters and abundant wildlife. 

Things To Do: Visitors can take a riverboat tour, go swimming or snorkeling, or hike on the many trails in the park.

Devil’s Den

• Location: Devil’s Den Devil’s Den is located in Williston, Florida, about 100 miles northwest of Orlando and 30 miles southwest of Gainesville. 
• How To Reach – To reach Devil’s Den, take the I-75 to exit 382, then head west on State Road 121 for approximately 6 miles. 

Devil’s Den is an underground spring that is popular among scuba divers. The crystal clear water of the spring is 72 degrees year-round, making it an ideal spot for diving. 

Things To Do: Visitors can also swim and snorkel in the spring.

Alexander Springs Recreation Area 

• Location: Alexander Springs Recreation Area is located in Altoona, Florida, about 50 miles northwest of Orlando. 
• How To Reach: To reach the recreation area, take the US-19 north for approximately 30 miles. 

Alexander Springs is one of the most beautiful springs in Florida, with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches.

Things To Do: Visitors can swim, snorkel, and kayak in the spring. The recreation area also offers camping, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Juniper Springs Recreation Area 

• Location: Juniper Springs Recreation Area is in Ocala National Forest, about 40 miles southeast of Ocala. 
• How To Reach – To reach the recreation area, take the FL-40 east for approximately 20 miles, then turn left onto County Road 315 and follow the signs to the recreation area. 

Juniper Springs is one of the most scenic springs in Florida, with crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation. 

Things To Do: Visitors can swim, snorkel, and kayak in the spring. The recreation area also offers camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wekiwa Springs State Park 

• Location: Wekiwa Springs State Park is located in Apopka, Florida, about 20 miles north of Orlando. 
• How To Reach – To reach the park, take the FL-429 north to the US-441 exit, then head north for approximately 7 miles. 

Wekiwa Springs is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The park also offers camping, hiking, and horseback riding opportunities. 

Things To Do: Visitors can also explore the nearby Rock Springs Run State Reserve, which offers additional hiking and paddling opportunities.

Manatee Springs State Park 

• Location: Manatee Springs State Park is located in Chiefland, Florida, about 100 miles northwest of Gainesville. 
• How To Reach – Take the US-19 north for approximately 7 miles to reach the park. 

Manatee Springs is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. 

Things To Do: The park offers camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can also take a scenic drive on the nearby Nature Coast Trail, which offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

FAQs – Best Springs In Florida

Some frequently asked questions for first-time tourists visiting the Florida Springs mentioned above:

• What should I wear when visiting the springs?

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear when visiting the springs. Swimsuits are appropriate for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

• Are there any entrance fees for visiting the springs? 

Most of the springs mentioned above charge an entrance fee, which varies depending on the location and time of year. Check the website of each spring for the most up-to-date information.

• Can I bring food and drinks to the springs? 

Most springs have picnic areas where visitors can bring food and drinks. However, some springs have restrictions on glass containers and alcohol, so better to check the rules before visiting.

• Can I rent equipment for water activities at the springs? 

Some springs offer rental equipment for water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Also, check the website of each spring for availability and pricing.

• Are the springs open year-round? 

Most springs are available year-round, but their operating hours vary depending on the season. Check the website of each spring for the most up-to-date information. 

• Can I camp at the Florida Springs? 

Some of the springs offer camping facilities, while others do not. Check the website of each spring for availability and pricing.

• Are there any guided tours available at the springs? 

Some of the springs offer guided tours, while others do not. It is advisable to check the website each spring for availability and pricing.

• Are the springs accessible for people with disabilities? 

Most springs have accessible facilities for people with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.  

• Are pets allowed at the springs? 

Most springs restrict pets, and some do not allow pets at all. Check the website of each spring for their pet policy.

• What other attractions are there near the springs? 

Many springs are near other attractions, such as state parks, wildlife reserves, and historic sites. You should check from the local visitor center or find spots on Google or Apple Maps for nearby attractions.

Best Time to Visit – Florida Springs

The best time to visit Florida Springs depends on your preferences and what you want to do at the springs. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Spring and Fall – The best time to visit Florida Springs is spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The water temperature is also ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
2. Summer – Summer (June to August) is the peak season for Florida springs, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the crowds can be large, and the water temperature can be warm, which may be better for some visitors.
3. Winter – Winter (December to February) is the low season for Florida springs, with cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. While the water temperature may be too cold for swimming and snorkeling, it can be an excellent time to visit the springs for hiking and wildlife viewing.
4. Holidays – Florida Springs can be exceptionally crowded during Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. If you plan to visit during these times, arrive early and be prepared for large crowds.

It is also important to note that some springs may have seasonal closures or reduced hours during certain times of the year. It is advisable to check the website each spring for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and closures.

Florida has a wealth of natural springs to explore, each with unique beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether looking for a peaceful swimming spot or an adrenaline-pumping scuba diving adventure, Florida Springs has something for everyone. So now you know where are the best springs in Florida for families, and even recommended for groups, solo travelers, and all nature lovers.

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