Florida is well known for its sandy shores, but one of its biggest treasures actually is deeper down. The state’s underground aquifer holds 800 billion gallons of crystal-clear water, stored at 72 degrees year round. More than 700 natural springs around Florida are fed from this immense resource. For your next day trip or long weekend, visit one of these natural springs located in or near Florida state parks.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Located a few hours north of Tampa, Rainbow Springs offers water that stays at 72 degrees year-round, making it ideal for swimming in the summer months. The crystal-clear water means that snorkelers can easily identify fish, turtles and other aquatic wildlife. The spring pumps out more than 400 million gallons of water per day.
Location: 19158 S.W. 81st Place Road, Dunnellon FL 34432
Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year
Fees: $2 per person. Children under 6 admitted free. Contact Guest Services at 833-945-2925 for tube rental and shuttle fees.
Official website
Ginnie Springs
This privately owned park along the Santa Fe River in Gilchrist County is probably best known for its series of underwater caverns, which are popular with snorkelers and scuba divers. (Scuba training is even available onsite through independent instructors.) Bring an innertube, paddle board or even a kayak if you want to enjoy a relaxing day on the water. Campsites with full electronic and water hook-ups are also available.
Location: 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643
Hours: Seasonal. Check website for latest updates.
Fees: Varies. See website for specific fees.
Official website
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Just north of Gainesville is Fort White, home to the Ichetucknee River, a popular destination for tubers and snorkelers. Eight springs join to form the river, which is also home to wildlife including otters, softshell turtles and wild turkeys. The park fills up quickly, so go early on a weekend or visit on a weekday.
Location: 12087 S.W. U.S. Highway 27, Fort White FL 32038
Hours: 8 a.m. until sunset
Fees: $6 per vehicle
Official website
Juniper Springs Recreation Area
This is one of the most popular camping destinations in the Ocala National Forest because of its proximity to several springs. One unusual attraction is the spring’s water mill, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps to provide electricity for the area.
Location: 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
Fees: A day-use pass is $70 + tax per person and is good for 12 months from the date of purchase. It provides entrance to recreation areas managed by Adventure Ocala.
Official website
Manatee Springs State Park
West of Gainesville is Chiefland, home to the Manatee Springs State Park. It’s a popular spot for manatees in winter months. The park features 8.5 miles of nature trails and a connection to the Nature Coast State Trail, a popular attraction for cyclists.
Location: 11650 N.W. 115 St., Chiefland FL 32626
Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year
Fees: $6 per vehicle
Official website
Wekiwa Springs State Park
This park is minutes north of Orlando. It features a series of trails stretching from a mile to 13 miles for any hiking fan. The park is probably best known for its half-acre swimming hole, where the water averages 4 feet deep. The lawn surrounding the water is perfect for picnics or sunbathing.
Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka FL 32712
Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year
Fees: $6 per vehicle
Official website
