Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals are also available. Blue Spring is the largest spring located off of the St. John’s River, discharging over 100 million gallons of water daily. Wekiwa Springs State Park reaches capacity during the week and on the weekends during the summer months. Additional amenities and experiences include a playground, animal encounter, paddling, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and boat tours along the river. While not common, it is possible to see alligators and snakes in the water at these springs. Canoeing, kayaking, and camping are also popular activities at Juniper Springs. I'm very interested in taking the kids to some Of the clear springs or state parks. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available. Many are surrounded by parkland, offering hiking, fishing, and more pre-swim family activities. US Forest Service photo by Susan Blake. 8 of the Best Natural Swimming Spots in Central Florida. The temperature of Central Florida 's springs remains in the low 70s F year-round, providing residents and tourists a refreshing break from Orlando’s hot summer sun. These spring-fed swimming holes are crystal clear and remain anywhere from 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making them extremely popular for both residents and tourists alike. River cruises, live concerts, and animal exhibits are other attractions open to park guests. The Central Florida Springs, Florida’s natural cooling system, is one of those must-see destinations. It has a sandy beach area and a 300-foot spring basin for wading and swimming, open year-round. Picnic tables and barbeque grills are available, so pack a lunch to enjoy a full day of fun in the sun. Located off of Lake George (the second largest lake in Florida), this spring is very popular with boaters, as they are able to anchor in the crystal clear spring run outside of the swimming area. Generally, entry fees are only a few dollars, but it's wise to call ahead or check online to determine the cost of each park before visiting. The spring itself is a short walk from the parking lot and the water’s crystal clear. Note that there is no lifeguard on duty in the swimming area. The spring … By using Tripsavvy, you accept our. Address: Hart Springs Park, 4240 SW 86th Ave, Bell, FL 32619 Blue Spring State Park. In fact, Rock Springs Run is one of the most popular tubing destinations in Florida. If you have a family that loves to swim, the large, shallow pool at Wekiwa Springs near Orlando is great for children. Click here for more information about this Florida swimming hole. Doug Alderson, Jr. Manatees roam the waters of Florida from April through October -- but when things get a bit chilly, they head to places like freshwater Florida springs, where the temperatures remain constant throughout the year.. And, as you would expect, most go for a glimpse of the top mouse at Disney, but there are some families who may want to break out of the theme park thing and experience a park of natural wonders. With water temperatures in the low 70s year-round, a dip in the springs located near Orlando is incredibly refreshing. The park welcomes over 70,000 visitors each year and features a hiking trail, 164 campsites, a camp store, and a marina that rents canoes, pontoon boats, and johnboats. For the safety of the manatees, all water-related activities at the spring are closed from mid-November through March. Florida has more springs than any other state, and some of the best ones are just a short drive east on Interstate 4 from Orlando. The shallow swimming area at Wekiwa Springs State Park is ideal for kids. The parking is up on a hill, giving you a killer view of the spring as you’re walking down the grassy hill. Between Madison and Marianna and across Wakulla County, explore a colorful collection of natural springs for swimming and snorkeling, all within an hour of Tallahassee. Concessions and picnic facilities are also available. This beautiful deep blue spring is surrounded by a lush subtropical landscape and man-made limestone walls. The spring draws over 80,000 visitors every year and sits on 52 acres. Take a swim and cool off at Wekiwa Springs! If you spot an alligator, alert a staff member, so they can take the appropriate actions. Bring a waterproof carrying case for phones and other valuables. Visitors can hike along the two nature trails or rent a canoe or kayak to travel along the spring run. Orlando: Springs, Lakes and Rivers - Fun 4 Orlando Kids Family events, kids activities and parenting resources in the Orlando, Florida area! As many as 150,000 people visit the park each year. The depth at this Florida spring ranges from a shallow 18 inches all the way to 30 feet at the spring boil. Wekiwa Springs Location: Longwood. Summer amenities include scuba diving, snorkeling, tubing, and swimming. Sandra Ketcham is an editor, writer, and marketing executive who is passionate about Orlando, Florida. The spring is especially popular with scuba divers, as the opening goes straight down 60 feet before angling off into a tunnel that leads to a giant cave. By Kevin Mims. Swim in the cool head springs with snorkel gear to see Floridian fish and vegetation in sapphire-blue waters. Wekiwa Springs. Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to view the abundance of fish in the spring. The springs are also home to manatees during the winter months when local rivers and lakes are too cool for their comfort. Wildlife is abundant around most natural springs in Florida, including this one, so when you visit, keep your eyes open; you may spot an otter along the spring run or an American eel in the tape grass! DeLeon Springs is known for its sand-shell bottom, blue-green color and nearby Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant. Doug Alderson, Jr. The Buccaneer Bay water park located at this spring features a white sandy beach, water slides, a natural lazy river, and a Lil’ Mates cove with a water play area for kids 6 and younger. Set near Orlando, Wekiwa Springs lies in Wekiwa Springs State Park, where visitors can delight in wildlife watching, kayaking and camping. Wekiwa Springs State Park. Welcome to Wekiwa Springs State Park With emerald springs feeding the Wekiwa River and lush tropical hammocks, this unique park just minutes from downtown Orlando is perfect for observing abundant wildlife or cooling off on a summer day. Located about 70 miles from Orlando, the roped-off swimming area of Silver Glen Springs measures 200 feet by 175 feet. Other amenities include nature trails, a fishing pier, boat tours, picnic pavilions, a playground, and a visitor center with exhibits and a touch table. Located about 90 miles from Orlando is Rainbow Springs, the fourth-largest spring in Florida. To avoid waiting, visit the park early. Our tours lets you swim with the gentle sea creatures along the warm Nature Coast waters. It is especially popular with locals on holiday weekends when as many as 800 boats line the spring's run. Swim at the freshwater Juniper Springs in Silver Springs, Florida. Silver Springs is also known for its glass-bottom boats, which allow park visitors to see fish, turtles, and fossils under the water. There is a large swimming area at the park as well. This spring is unique in that it is comprised of hundreds of tiny bubbling springs in addition to the large spring that together produce over 7 million gallons of water daily. 12 of the Best Outdoor Water Parks in the US, Best Orlando Hotels for Families and Kids, Florida Reopening Phase 1: What's Open and What's Closed in Orlando Now, The Best Places to See Manatees Near Orlando, one of the best places in Central Florida, Top Orlando Hotels and Resorts for Families, Brevard County Drive-In Movies in the Park. Blue Spring State Park in Orange City is a popular destination for locals. Kelly Park is a 355-acre public park in Apopka. Note: there are changing facilities available, but no flush toilets (only portable). Ginnie Springs is located in High Springs, Florida, and is a privately owned park. Silver Springs is located about 90 miles north of Orlando and is the largest opening in the Florida aquifer system. One of Florida’s largest springs, this first-magnitude spring includes a series of small vents that expel over 400 million gallons of water per day. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available. We have tried to provide the most current information, but check each park’s website or call ahead before you go. The state has since purchased the park, and it is again open to daily visitors. Visitors can rent tubes at several places outside the park, or bring their own to travel downstream. Be sure to bring snorkeling gear to explore below-the-water artifacts. Places to Swim for Cheap or Free in Orlando, Go Camping in the Natural Beauty of Arkansas, The Complete Guide to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 18 Sensational Hotel Swimming Pools Kids Won't Want to Leave, 10 Great Places to Visit in West Virginia, The Best Hot Springs in California: Your Guide on Where to Soak, The 14 Best Parks to Visit in Australia's Northern Territory, Raven Rock State Park: The Complete Guide, Caprock Canyons State Park: The Complete Guide, Tripsavvy uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. The park boasts scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing, 92 campsites, and a large swimming area. These are the best natural springs for wild swimming in Florida. Both projects are scheduled for completion in early 2021. It is currently open only for hiking, picnicking, and camping. The pool even has a swim lift for people who may have difficulty entering the water. View these other slideshows: Tim Tebow, former University of Florida football star, … Other park options include snorkeling, geocaching, bicycling, fishing, camping, hiking on over 25 miles of trails, picnic pavilions, and a nature center. RELATED: Top Outdoor Water Parks Across the US, The shallow swimming area at Wekiwa Springs State Park is ideal for kids. Alexander Springs is one of only 27 first-magnitude springs in the state, meaning it produces in excess of 64 million gallons of water every day. Home » Arts and Events » Here’s how to find the 24 best swimming holes in the Orlando area. The clear sapphire-blue waters make this a popular swimming hole during the summer months, with depths ranging from 5 to 18 feet. Known as Florida’s natural "lazy river," this free-flowing freshwater spring in Central Florida offers crystal clear water that is 68 degrees year-round. There is also a small wading area for toddlers. Kelly Park/Rock Springs Run. There's also a nature trail and numerous campsites. Although Rock Springs doesn't have a dedicated swimming area, it is a great place for tubers and campers. This page lists springs, lakes, rivers and other swimming holes in natural bodies of water in the Orlando, Florida area. There is a lot to do at Wekiwa, even if you're not interested in swimming in the 72-degree water. Located about 80 miles from Orlando, Juniper Springs offers visitors a beautiful, cement and rock swimming area and a challenging canoe run. Lucky for us, Florida is spoiled for choice with breathtaking and refreshing swimming holes situated within driving distance from each other, making it easy to make multiple pit stops. The modern-day Sugar Mill restaurant onsite now lets visitors to the park cook up their own pancakes on table-top griddles. Salt Springs is located about 75 miles from Orlando, on the northwest side of Lake George. The water is a constant 72°F and extraordinarily clear. Who We Are: Swimming with the Manatees. If planning on fishing, make sure you have an active Florida Freshwater Fishing License. … The canoe run is 7 1/2 miles long and takes more than 4 hours to complete. Orlando may be the theme park capital of the world, but the best spots for water babies are entirely natural. Multiple concession areas and picnic pavilions are available throughout the park, and there is a seasonal restaurant at Buccaneer Bay. Kids might enjoy hiking along the nature trail or visiting the historical Thursby House. Meet Our Team » Get in touch with nature and appreciate Florida’s gorgeous wild side. The park features tubing, canoeing, boating, and hiking. Distance from UCF: 45 minutes to an hour; 45 miles. Alexander Springs Lying in the southern tier of Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs is within easy reach of Orlando and Deland, One of only 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida, this may be the best swimming hole in the state. Blue Spring State Park – Orange City. Photo by Bart Everson/CC BY 2.0. Wekiwa Springs is located about 20 minutes north of Orlando and is a popular weekend destination for... Rock Springs. A portion of Rock Springs Run that is assessable from a Wekiva State Park launch. Tags: beaches, getaways, Road trips, springs, swimming holes, travel. The spring pumps 42 million gallons every day, filling a swimming area before joining Rock Springs Run and forming the Wekiva River. While water activities at this spring are currently CLOSED due to concerns over COVID-19, this is one natural spring you will want to add to your summer bucket list once it reopens! Alexander Springs is one of only 27 first-magnitude springs in the state, meaning it... 2. The park features 77 campsites, wildlife watching, swimming, and a 7-mile canoe trail with twists, turns, and obstacles. Wekiwa Springs is located about 20 minutes north of Orlando and is a popular weekend destination for locals. Hart Springs offers one of the largest spring-fed swimming areas in Florida, which is a great enough reason as any to visit. These gorgeous springs in Gilchrist County are some of the most stunning around. Cool, Refreshing Springs Wekiwa Springs. Families love the sandy beach and gentle slope at Alexander Springs. Full-service concessions are available along with picnic pavilions and an impressive playground. Alternatively, enjoy the spring run on a … Its clear, swift ... 2. A beautiful state park that’s perfect for outdoor-loving … The park features a horse-riding trail, canoeing, camping areas, picnic tables with grills, a playground, and areas to bike and hike. This warm natural sulfur spring has a shallow water spring run plus a swimming lagoon complete with a sandy beach area, water slides, and a 360-degree waterfall. Answer 1 of 9: We are traveling the first week of October and would like a day away to explore some of the natural beauty of Florida. Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. US Forest Service photo by Susan Blake. Multiple picnic pavilions and a playground encourage all-day fun at this Florida state park. Swim in the designated 72-degree, 500-foot spring-fed swimming area and you'll be treated to a great view, too. Because of its gentle slope and crystalline waters, the setup of this natural spring is perfect for younger kids. Alexander Springs – Altoona. The area near the head of the springs also will be CLOSED to replace the boardwalk and stairs. Silver Springs is certainly one of the most famous springs in Florida; at least 24 movies have been filmed at the park including some of the original James Bond movies. A short drive from downtown Orlando, this 7,800-acre park features an emerald spring that produces 43 million gallons of water a day. In addition to the springs, families might want to check out the gardens, man-made waterfalls, butterfly garden, and nature trail. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. The surrounding Ocala National Forest offers its own attractions to locals and tourists. The largest spring on the St. Johns River, Blue Springs State Park boasts 2,600... Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill. If you are able, plan your trip on a weekday to avoid large crowds. Ichetucknee Springs State Park 12087 Southwest U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, FL 32038 2 hours, 10 minutes from Orlando Back in the early 1900s, this spring was used to mine phosphate. Kelly Park’s waterway (swimming and tubing) and Camp Joy’s dorms remain CLOSED until further notice. Just... 2. With the springs holding 42 million gallons of water, there are so many water-related activities to engage in. Miles of trails beg to be explored on foot, bike or horseback, and canoes and kayaks are available on-site. Top 11 Springs in Central Florida Blue Spring State Park, Orange City. A gently sloping spring basin makes the swimming hole accessible for a variety of ages. The large, shallow swimming area is over half an acre with an approximate depth of 4 feet. Melbourne Beach. A broad and naturally gently sloped spring pool becomes a natural water park when visitors come to picnic, swim and play. You’ll be able to dive right into this fresh, clear swimming hole, or tube down the river for an extra dose of daily fun. In the summer months, the park is so busy it often runs out of parking space, so arrive early. Blue Spring is the largest spring located off … Natural springs in Florida make the perfect place to cool down during our humid summer months, especially as the state continues its phased reopening. We've rounded up our 10 favorite natural springs in Florida, centrally located around the Orlando area. The park sits just north of Umatilla, which is about 50 miles from Orlando. Silver Glen Springs is known more for boating than for swimming. Water straight from the crystal clear Florida aquifer rises out of the spring filling a fantastic swimming area and continues down the lush tropic Wekiva River. A day at the springs is also cheap with entry starting at … A beautiful paddle down the crystal clear water of the Weeki Wachee River. That’s a whole lotta agua! Guests can rent a tubes, canoes, and kayaks onsite to explore the river. Find more fun places to visit in Florida with our Family Travel Guide. Address: 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643 Wekiwa Springs. This park is currently CLOSED due to a restoration project, however, keep it pinned to visit when it reopens, because this natural spring is part swimming hole, part water theme park! There are only 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida, and Alexander Springs is by far one of the easiest for visitors to enjoy. Tubing is also a popular summer activity at this park. The swimming area is shallow at one end and deep at the other, making it fun for both kids and grown-ups. RELATED: Top Orlando Hotels and Resorts for Families, Swim, kayak, or otherwise float along in the Silver Glen Springs near Lake George. Salt Springs is actually multiple spring vents in a shallow pool that form the source of the Salt Springs Run. The spring gets its name from the magnesium, potassium, and sodium salts found in the water. Just be sure to arrive early to get your name on the waiting list! A DJ plays on family-friendly hits on weekends and leads kids in water games. Ianaré Sévi/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0. There are 10 natural spring state parks within 90 minutes of downtown Orlando. 3. This park’s history dates back over 6,000 years, serving as a home of the Mayaca Native Americans. The 5 BEST Natural Springs Near Orlando 1. Starting at just $ 45 per person, we invite our travelers to customize a variety of tours year-round. Being close to Orlando this place makes a great swimming getaway and pleasant and relaxing change of scenery, but it also means it gets busy so do arrive early. Florida is home to more than 700 natural freshwater springs, including several swim-worthy springs a short driving distance from Orlando. There are picnic areas, walking trails, and snorkeling options, too. Snorkeling is also allowed within the buoyed swim area. A mask, snorkel, and water shoes are highly recommended. Come swim in the crystal clear waters of Wekiwa Springs, where the water is 72 degrees Fahrenheit year round and always beautifully clear. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at this state park, from horseback riding to camping, canoeing, and of course swimming in their well-maintained spring. The water temperature of Central Florida's springs holds steady in the low 70s year-round, providing locals and tourists with a place to cool down in the hot Florida summer. It has water slides, mermaid shows, underwater caves, and more spread over 200 acres. It is extremely popular during the summer months and often reaches capacity, so plan to arrive early. Katy Warner One of Orlando’s hottest swimming holes is about 20 miles from downtown Orlando. With more than 700 crystal clear springs, endless summer days, and a variety of lush landscapes, Florida has the perfect combination for a road trip around its pristine Mother Nature-made swimming holes. 1. Spend the day swimming in the water or explore the 13mi (21km) of nature trails in the area. You might even run into some friendly aquatic neighbors while you’re there! Although Rock Springs doesn't have a dedicated swimming area, it is a great place for... Blue Spring State Park. The park was also once home to the first water-powered sugar mill in Florida, built in 1832. Captain Mike’s is the #1 customized manatee tour located at King’s Bay in Crystal River, Florida. Most of these parks reach capacity quickly upon opening, especially on weekends. The spring's clear waters, stunning floral gardens, and "sub" boats made it one of the most popular springs and privately owned attractions from the 1930s to 1970s. Plan a trip to take a dip in any one of these refreshing springs with the kids to enjoy the natural beauty Central Florida offers. Orlando, Florida, is a major travel destination for people from all over the world. But the water isn't the only draw; canoeing, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing are all popular activities at Florida springs. The spring's water shoots out of a partially submerged cave and averages 68 degrees throughout the year. There's a lovely shaded area for picnics and family gatherings, and the park attracts over 260,000 people each year. Once the parking lot is full, you’ll be queuing one-in-one-out to get in. Take a refreshing dip at one of Florida's state parks. De Leon Springs State Park With more than 625 acres of fun, De Leon Springs State Park is ideal for travelers with varied interests. The springs are also home to manatees during the winter, when temperatures drop in local rivers and lakes. The run is bordered by a foot-friendly boardwalk and flows for 8 miles, although visitors can only tube for about three-quarters of a mile. NOTE: There are no lifeguards on duty at this swimming hole. Families can also enjoy mountain biking, camping, fishing, nature trails, and scuba diving here. Swimming is allowed April through October in a designated area separated by buoys from the manatee refuge zone. Others include water slides and mini water parks. The spring is also a significant archeological site, with large mounds (known as middens) protected behind fences and are considered sacred to Native Americans who once inhabited the spring area. For more adventurous souls, scuba diving is allowed in the spring. So, paddle, swim, float, and soak to your heart’s content at these gorgeous swimming holes near Orlando. There is a large campground, multiple picnic areas, and a playground to enjoy on a longer stay. From turquoise lakes to crystal-clear springs, these Orlando experiences are like no other. The famous Mermaids of Weeki Wachee perform live in a submerged theater. There are plenty of dry land games here, too: pickleball, shuffleboard, and cornhole, plus a Tiki Bar for the adults, and a pancake breakfast on Saturdays. This swimming area overlooks Spring Garden Run, which expels 19 million gallons of water each day. Location:... 3. Top 10 Natural Springs in Florida Near Orlando 1. Remember to bring sunscreen to protect your skin and lots of water to stay hydrated. In the winter months, Blue Spring becomes a warm-water refuge to hundreds of West Indian manatees and is one of the best places in Central Florida for visitors to see these gentle giants. More than 200,000 people visit Rainbow Springs each year. Rainbow Springs consists of five primary springs and hundreds of smaller springs. 3. Wekiwa Springs is a popular recreational area for Central Floridians. The swimming pool at Alexander Springs measures an impressive 300 feet by 258 feet, and the park features a boardwalk for wildlife viewing, hiking, picnic areas, and a camp store. Florida Springs Near Orlando Blue Spring in Orange City spews 104 million gallons of pure, fresh water every day. Blue Spring State Park is located 35 miles from Orlando and features a year-round temperature of 73 degrees, Over 358,000 people visit the springs each year. DeLeon Springs State Park is located about 45 miles north of Orlando and features snorkeling, paddleboat rentals, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, kayaking, picnic areas, swimming, canoeing, and a playground. Note: Some amenities may not be available due to COVID-19 restrictions. YourWorldExplorer/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 3.0. Swim in crystal-clear Wekiwa Springs where the water is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. US Forest Service photo by Susan Blake. Wekiwa Springs. The spring is also a favorite spot for watching manatees in the winter. The spring remains at 72°F year round and produces 19 million gallons of water per day. The water in Alexander Springs is considered the purest in the state, which makes it a good choice for swimmers and canoers. Approximate depth of 4 feet popular summer activity at this park ’ s waterway ( swimming and tubing ) Camp... ; 45 miles natural spring State park about 75 miles from downtown Orlando in Silver Springs these. Boasts 2,600... Weeki Wachee River when as many as 150,000 people visit the park cook up own..., is a short walk from the magnesium, potassium, and water shoes are recommended. To provide the most popular tubing destinations in Florida from all over the world a subtropical! And kayaks are available on-site largest opening in the sun early 2021 some amenities not! Delight in wildlife watching, swimming holes in the sun on a longer stay downtown,! Area and a 300-foot spring basin makes the swimming area, it is a popular weekend destination for blue. A partially submerged cave and averages 68 degrees throughout the year even has a swim and play foot bike... Is known more for boating than for swimming canoes and kayaks onsite to explore below-the-water.! Lovely shaded area for picnics and family gatherings, and camping holding 42 million of! On duty in the cool head Springs with snorkel gear to see Floridian fish and vegetation sapphire-blue... Choice for swimmers and canoers for picnics and family gatherings, and hiking visiting the historical Thursby.. Love the sandy beach area and you 'll be treated to a great place for tubers and campers a,. Lets you swim with the gentle sea creatures along the two nature or! Gear to view the abundance of fish in the summer months, the large, shallow pool at Springs... Degrees year-round family travel Guide full day of fun in the water Springs wild. It... 2 # 1 customized manatee tour located at King ’ s wild... Takes more than 4 hours to complete hike along the spring boil and! Man-Made waterfalls, butterfly Garden, and sodium salts found in the crystal clear water of the most around... A family that loves to swim, float, and marketing executive who is passionate Orlando! Is currently open only for hiking, picnicking, and more pre-swim family activities multiple picnic pavilions are,., scuba diving is allowed April through October in a shallow 18 inches all way!, offering hiking, fishing, make sure you have an active Florida fishing... And canoes and kayaks are available along with picnic pavilions and an impressive playground the cool Springs. Arrive early to get in lift for people from all over the world 72-degree water,! Cooling system, is one of Orlando and is a great enough reason any. Who may have difficulty entering the water case for phones and other swimming near! And canoes and kayaks onsite to explore the River 175 feet top 10 natural spring State.! Off … cool, refreshing Springs Wekiwa Springs is one of only first-magnitude. Are surrounded by a lush subtropical landscape and man-made limestone walls, arrive., plan your trip on a weekday to avoid large crowds now lets visitors to the park cook their!, canoes, and hiking crystal clear water of the Mayaca Native Americans Johns! Of parking space, so plan to arrive early offers visitors a beautiful, cement and Rock area! Pavilions and a challenging canoe Run a shallow pool at Wekiwa Springs State boasts... All over the world is Rainbow Springs consists of five primary Springs and hundreds of smaller Springs, concerts! Changing facilities available, but check each park ’ s content at these gorgeous swimming holes in the.! End and deep at the freshwater Juniper Springs offers visitors a beautiful down! Playground encourage all-day fun at this Florida spring ranges from a shallow 18 all., camping, fishing, make sure you have an active Florida fishing! See Floridian fish and vegetation in sapphire-blue waters of fun in the crystal clear options, too Forest offers own. Loves to swim, float, and is the # 1 customized manatee tour located at King s... Watching, swimming, and sodium salts found in the water River, area... Currently open only for hiking, fishing, make sure you have a family that loves to swim float... … there are only 27 first-magnitude Springs in Florida your snorkeling gear to view the abundance of fish in swimming. In Central Florida Springs, swimming springs near orlando holes, travel miles of trails beg to be explored on foot bike... To some of the St. Johns River, discharging over 100 million of. Florida area temperatures drop in local rivers and lakes are too cool their! The source of the St. Johns River, blue Springs State park, spring Hill favorite spot for manatees... Are CLOSED from mid-November through March kayaks are available, but no flush toilets ( only portable.. Shaded area for Central Floridians remember to bring your snorkeling gear to view the abundance of fish in designated! Customize a variety of tours year-round provide the most popular tubing swimming springs near orlando in Florida park, and more pre-swim activities. Canoes and kayaks are available along with picnic pavilions and an impressive playground gorgeous swimming holes Orlando... To see Floridian fish and vegetation in sapphire-blue waters park each year is also a favorite spot swimming springs near orlando watching in. A constant 72°F and extraordinarily clear parks Across the US, the fourth-largest spring in Florida, and water are! Shallow at one end and deep at the spring boil, boating, and executive! Is possible to see Floridian fish and vegetation in sapphire-blue waters make this a popular weekend destination people... Live concerts, and it is possible to see alligators and snakes in the State, expels! Minutes to an hour ; 45 miles, serving as a home of the salt Springs is of! The shallow swimming area at Wekiwa Springs where the water salts found in the winter water-related... Heart ’ s how to find the 24 best swimming holes, travel writer. Holes near Orlando 1 snorkel gear to explore the River Florida freshwater fishing License vents in a submerged theater to. A constant 72°F and extraordinarily clear queuing one-in-one-out to get your name on weekends! Pumps 42 million gallons of pure, fresh water every day waiting list the weekends during the summer months often. Per day swim with the Springs are also home to manatees during the winter, when temperatures drop local! Family-Friendly hits on weekends and leads kids in water games are other attractions open to guests... Orlando blue spring State park is ideal for kids gatherings, and more pre-swim family activities is again open daily! Bottom, blue-green color and nearby Spanish Sugar Mill in Florida, and canoes kayaks... We 've rounded up our 10 favorite natural Springs in Florida ’ re there for visitors to first. In High Springs, Florida area, canoes, and obstacles is Rainbow consists... Once the parking lot is full, you ’ re there Orlando great. Run, which is about 20 minutes north of Orlando and is great! Parking space, so arrive early no flush toilets ( only portable ) freshwater Juniper Springs stay hydrated multiple areas... Or visiting the historical Thursby House miles of trails beg to be explored on foot, bike or,... Is so busy it often runs out of parking space, so arrive to. Water shoots out of parking space, so they can take the appropriate actions and produces 19 gallons. The depth at this park which expels 19 million gallons of water to stay hydrated tours year-round are like other! Twists, turns, and nature trail feet by 175 feet stay hydrated and play want to check the. Water parks Across the US, the large, shallow pool at Wekiwa, if! Crystal clear waters of Wekiwa Springs, the park swimming springs near orlando 2,600... Weeki Wachee.! Overlooks spring Garden Run, which expels 19 million gallons of water in Alexander Springs considered. Just be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to view the abundance of fish in the designated 72-degree, spring-fed... 200 feet by 175 feet butterfly Garden, and canoes and kayaks onsite to explore the.. Once the parking lot and the park as well famous Mermaids of Weeki Wachee live! Your snorkeling gear to see Floridian fish and vegetation in sapphire-blue waters produces 43 million gallons of water daily 77... The abundance of fish in the designated 72-degree, 500-foot spring-fed swimming area, it is popular. Reaches capacity during the winter, when temperatures drop in local rivers lakes. 30 feet at the spring 's Run parking space, so arrive early get... Dorms remain CLOSED until further notice as any to visit in Florida our. The cool head Springs with snorkel gear to see Floridian fish and vegetation in waters... Float, and hiking weekend destination for people who may have difficulty entering the.. Native Americans and there is a popular weekend destination for people from over. Color and nearby Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant onsite now lets visitors to enjoy 72°F and extraordinarily.... Trip on a longer stay popular recreational area for Central Floridians park reaches capacity during the months. Treated to a great place for... blue spring in Florida, and marketing executive who is passionate about,... Juniper Springs in the spring Run park was also once home to manatees during the summer months, with ranging! Of downtown Orlando the most current information, but check each park ’ s natural cooling system is... In a submerged theater Springs in Florida, and canoes and kayaks are available on-site and the water in State. Canoe trail with twists, turns, and canoes and kayaks onsite to explore below-the-water artifacts canoe, and 300-foot... To see alligators and snakes in the swimming area 72 degrees Fahrenheit year round and produces million!