Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and theme parks, but did you know that it is also home to some of the most breathtaking natural springs in the world? These springs are not only perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, but they are also a great way to experience the state’s natural beauty and get outside with your family.
Our state has over 700 natural springs. Each day, eight billion gallons of water flows from our underground aquifer at a constant 72-degrees.
With so many to choose from, it’s easy to find a refreshing watering hole to beat the summer heat.
Here are the top 5 best natural springs in Florida that you don’t want to miss!
Best Natural Springs in Florida
JUNIPER SPRINGS RECREATION AREA
Located in the heart of the Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs is one of the oldest and most popular natural springs in Florida. The crystal-clear waters of the spring are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. You can also hike the nearby trails or camp at the on-site campground. The park is open year-round, so it’s a great destination for families any time of the year.
26701 SR-40, Fort McCoy 34488 (Located in the Ocala National Forest)
(352) 625-3147
Admission, Amenities and Hours:
$7/person weekdays, $10/person weekends
Camping and rentals available
Mon – Sun: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Juniper Springs is one of the oldest and best-known recreation areas on the East Coast. Located between Ocala and Ormond Beach along SR 40, this complex of swimming and picnic area, campground and trails was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The setting houses hundreds of tiny bubbling springs and massive springs gushing out of crevices in the earth beneath a dense canopy of palms and oaks, an oasis within the heart of the desert-like scrub ecosystem.
For more info, click here. To read more about things to do at Juniper Springs, click here.
ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK
The Ichetucknee River is a popular spot for tubing and kayaking, but the springs themselves are also worth a visit. The park has several springheads that feed the river, and the water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom. There are also hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
12087 S.W. U.S. Highway 27, Fort White 32038
(386) 497-4690
Admission, Amenities and Hours:
$6/vehicle 2 – 6 passengers, $4/single occupant
Tubing, diving and paddling permitted
Mon – Sun: 8 a.m. – sundown
Although well-known for its warm weather tubing, the 2,669-acre Ichetucknee Springs State Park is also a wildlife haven, where beaver, otter, gar, softshell turtle, wild turkey, wood duck and limpkin all find a home. The main draw is the park’s eight major crystal-clear springs that join to create the 6-mile Ichetucknee River.
The upper portion within the state park is a National Natural Landmark, perhaps the most pristine spring run in the state and best enjoyed by canoe or kayak during the cooler months.
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RAINBOW SPRINGS STATE PARK
This park is known for its beautiful waterfalls and crystal-clear waters. The park has a large swimming area, as well as kayak and canoe rentals. There are also hiking trails and a picnic area, making it a great spot for a family day trip.
19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon 34432
(352) 465-8555
Admission, Amenities and Hours:
$2/person
Tubing, camping and rentals available
Mon – Sun: 8 a.m. – sundown
Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the head springs.
Rainbow Springs has very high visitation on weekends and holidays. The park will close when it reaches capacity, and no vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians will be allowed to enter, including registered campers. If you are renting a pavilion, hosting an event or have been invited to an event, please plan accordingly. If you leave the park when it is closed, you will not be allowed to reenter until the following day. Neither waiting in line in the park nor parking on the roads adjacent to the park will be allowed. Vehicles left outside the park on the road or private property could be towed at the owner’s expense.
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ALEXANDER SPRINGS RECREATION AREA
Located in the Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs is another popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The park has a large swimming area, as well as a boardwalk trail that takes you through the surrounding forest. There are also camping sites and a picnic area, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.
49525 County Road 445, Altoona 32702
(352) 669-3522
Admission, Amenities and Hours:
$7/person weekdays, $10/person weekends
Paddling, diving and camping available
Mon – Sun: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Only 27 first-magnitude springs exist in Florida, and Alexander Springs is by far one of the easiest to enjoy. A broad and naturally gently sloped spring pool is a constant 72°F and extraordinarily clear. Ripples play across the sand bottom as small fish dart about. Surrounded by a floodplain forest of maples, sweetgum and cabbage palms, this recreation area feels almost tropical.
The following services are temporarily unavailable: Canoe rentals, parking reservation system and the general store.
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ROCK SPRINGS KELLY PARK
This park is a great spot for families, with a large swimming area and a lazy river that is perfect for tubing. There are also hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids. The park is open year-round and is a great way to escape the heat during the summer months.
400 E Kelly Park Rd, Apopka 32712
(407) 254-1902
Admission, Amenities and Hours:
$3 – $5/vehicle
Paddling, tubing and camping available
Mon – Sun: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Kelly Park features a free-flowing natural spring (68 degrees year round), full-service concession, picnic pavilions and playground. Tube rentals are available from vendors outside the park; guests may bring their own pool noodles or floats that must be less than five feet in length or width. The waterfront closes one hour prior to park closing. During the summer, inclement weather can affect park operations; for the safety of our guests, the swim area will be closed if a storm produces lightning.
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Florida’s natural springs offer a great way to get outside and experience the state’s natural beauty with your family. From swimming and snorkeling to hiking and camping, these parks have something for everyone. So the next time you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, be sure to check out one of these top 5 best natural springs in Florida!