The 16 Best Florida Springs to Visit | Travel

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Ditch the Sunshine State’s crowded shores and cities to take a look at these gorgeous hidden gems.

Tens of millions of vacationers flock to Florida yearly to lounge on its unimaginable seashores and go to its world-renowned theme parks. Nonetheless, this widespread trip vacation spot additionally provides quieter pure wonders ready to be explored, together with serene springs with distinctive wildlife, histories and points of interest. However with greater than 1,000 freshwater springs to select from, determining which to prioritize could appear daunting. To resolve which of the Sunshine State’s springs you need to go to, U.S. Information chosen a number of choices worthy of a visit. Whether or not you are an area searching for a change of surroundings or an out-of-state customer keen to see a lesser-known facet of Florida, these tranquil our bodies of water cannot be missed. (Be aware: Among the locations talked about could also be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Verify with the CDC, the U.S. Division of State and native tourism boards earlier than touring.)(*16*)(*16*)

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Juniper Springs Recreation Space: Silver Springs

Immerse your self in nature (with out worrying about rubbing elbows with hordes of vacationers) by spending a day at Juniper Springs. Situated lower than 50 miles west of Daytona Seaside, the Juniper Springs Recreation Space supplies numerous alternatives for enjoyable outdoor. On this historic part of Ocala Nationwide Forest, you’ll be able to swim in, canoe on or snorkel within the area’s namesake springs. Wildlife you might even see right here embrace otters and alligators. Once you want a break from the water, make the most of on-site amenities like picnic tables and mountain climbing trails, which had been added by the Civilian Conservation Corps within the Nineteen Thirties. For daytrippers, visiting hours are typically from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., although hours could fluctuate relying on the season. Day use parking prices $5.50 per particular person. Bear in mind, charges apply for canoeing, even for those who carry your individual tools.(*16*)(*16*)

Ditch the Sunshine State’s crowded shores and cities to take a look at these gorgeous hidden gems.

Tens of millions of vacationers flock to Florida yearly to lounge on its unimaginable seashores and go to its world-renowned theme parks. Nonetheless, this widespread trip vacation spot additionally provides quieter pure wonders ready to be explored, together with serene springs with distinctive wildlife, histories and points of interest. However with greater than 1,000 freshwater springs to select from, determining which to prioritize could appear daunting. To resolve which of the Sunshine State’s springs you need to go to, U.S. Information chosen a number of choices worthy of a visit. Whether or not you are an area searching for a change of surroundings or an out-of-state customer keen to see a lesser-known facet of Florida, these tranquil our bodies of water cannot be missed. (Be aware: Among the locations talked about could also be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Verify with the CDC, the U.S. Division of State and native tourism boards earlier than touring.)(*16*)(*16*)

Juniper Springs Recreation Space: Silver Springs

Immerse your self in nature (with out worrying about rubbing elbows with hordes of vacationers) by spending a day at Juniper Springs. Situated lower than 50 miles west of Daytona Seaside, the Juniper Springs Recreation Space supplies numerous alternatives for enjoyable outdoor. On this historic part of Ocala Nationwide Forest, you’ll be able to swim in, canoe on or snorkel within the area’s namesake springs. Wildlife you might even see right here embrace otters and alligators. Once you want a break from the water, make the most of on-site amenities like picnic tables and mountain climbing trails, which had been added by the Civilian Conservation Corps within the Nineteen Thirties. For daytrippers, visiting hours are typically from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., although hours could fluctuate relying on the season. Day use parking prices $5.50 per particular person. Bear in mind, charges apply for canoeing, even for those who carry your individual tools.(*16*)(*16*)

Rainbow Springs State Park: Dunnellon

Initially created by businesspeople who envisioned turning the realm’s former phosphate mines right into a jungle-inspired oasis with waterfalls and unique animals, Rainbow Springs State Park continues to draw vacationers looking for crystal-clear waters and luxurious vegetation. Although the springs have shed their kitschy previous, guests will nonetheless discover options from the Sixties like deserted animal cages and man-made waterfalls. However the primary motive why daytrippers go to these one-of-a-kind springs – which sit about 100 miles north of Tampa – is to cool off of their refreshing waters. Rainbow Springs’ water is at all times 72 levels, making it excellent for swimming, kayaking and tubing on a scorching summer time day. The park’s primary headsprings entrance is open each day between 8 a.m. and sundown, whereas the tubing entrance’s hours fluctuate by month. Admission to the park prices $2 per particular person, and fees for tools leases vary from $20 for tubes to $60 for canoes.(*16*)(*16*)

Silver Springs State Park: Silver Springs

If you need to see into the depths of a pure spring with out getting moist, head 40 miles southeast of Gainesville to Silver Springs State Park. In contrast to different extremely regarded springs in Florida, swimming right here just isn’t permitted, so one of the simplest ways to absorb all Silver Springs has to provide is to join a glass-bottom boat tour. Every tour supplies an up-close have a look at underwater critters, vegetation, Native American and Spanish artifacts, and even submerged film props. Commonplace excursions final 30 to 45 minutes and price $11 or $12 for each participant older than 5. Prolonged excursions and canoe, kayak and paddleboard leases can be found as nicely. Silver Springs is open every day from 8 a.m. to sundown. Entry prices $5 or $8 per car, relying on the variety of passengers.

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Ginnie Springs: Excessive Springs

Located about midway between Tallahassee and St. Augustine, Ginnie Springs appeals to all types of vacationers. Guests who crave a laid-back day on the water can go tubing on the Santa Fe River, whereas energetic vacationers can discover by paddleboard, kayak or canoe. What’s extra, adventurous sorts can take a look at the identical freshwater dive websites (assume: underwater caverns and a fossil-covered river mattress) Jacques Cousteau visited within the Nineteen Seventies. Ginnie Springs is taken into account one of many state’s clearest springs, so guests will probably spot turtles and varied fish species. The park welcomes guests each day from 8 a.m. till not less than 4 p.m. (precise hours fluctuate by day and season). One-day entrance charges vary from $3.73 to $19.40 and fluctuate by age and day of the week. Separate fees apply for scuba diving and water sports activities tools leases.(*16*)(*16*)

Blue Spring State Park: Orange Metropolis

Escape the hustle and bustle of tourist-packed Orlando by touring 34 miles north to Blue Spring State Park. At this peaceable spring, you will uncover 72-degree water excellent for swimming, plus a wide range of wild animals, together with manatees and eagles. Once you’re not swimming or having fun with different actions like snorkeling, tubing, canoeing and kayaking, go to the park’s Thursby Home, the place you’ll be able to be taught extra concerning the spring’s position as a steamboat port within the 1800s. Like different state parks in Florida, Blue Spring is open year-round from 8 a.m. to sundown. Nonetheless, water-related actions should not permitted between mid-November and late March due to the spring’s designation as a manatee refuge. Swimming with manatees isn’t allowed. To go to the spring, count on to pay $4 or $6, relying on how many individuals are in your car.(*16*)(*16*)

Alexander Springs Recreation Space: Altoona

Mix a visit to Canaveral Nationwide Seashore – one of many East Coast’s high seashores – with an outing to the Alexander Springs Recreation Space. This Ocala Nationwide Forest spring is considered one of solely 27 first-magnitude springs within the state, that means it is a powerful dimension. Plus, Alexander Springs’ ties to the Timucua Indian Tribe, considered one of Florida’s oldest tribes, makes it a culturally vital vacation spot. Hike the realm’s mile-long Timucuan Path to see vegetation generally utilized by the tribe. Then, go for a refreshing dip in Alexander Springs. The clear water is at all times 72 levels, so you’ll be able to comfortably swim year-round. Different widespread actions right here embrace kayaking and canoeing. The spring is usually open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., although hours are often decreased. Parking prices $6 per particular person and is legitimate for in the future. Extra fees apply for kayaking and canoeing, no matter for those who hire tools on-site.(*16*)(*16*)

Troy Spring State Park: Branford

Enterprise about 90 miles southwest of Jacksonville to cool off and see a chunk of historical past. At Troy Spring State Park, you’ll be able to go swimming in shallow areas and the 70-foot-deep primary vent, the place you will uncover uncovered limestone rock. Troy Spring can also be dwelling to a Civil Struggle-era steamship, which was scuttled in 1863 to safeguard it from Union troops. The finest method to see the previous Accomplice steamship is to snorkel or scuba dive to it, however you will want to carry tools since leases should not obtainable on-site. When you want a break from the water, have a picnic at considered one of a number of tables or go for a stroll alongside the character path. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to sundown; nevertheless, swimming and diving are prohibited when water readability is poor. Admission is $4 or $5 per car, relying on the variety of passengers.(*16*)(*16*)

Manatee Springs State Park: Chiefland

For a leisurely day outdoor, journey 48 miles southwest of Gainesville to Manatee Springs State Park. As its identify suggests, the park is a haven for wild manatees: Up to 20 manatees could also be noticed right here in winter. Though swimming just isn’t allowed when the manatees are current, you’ll be able to admire Manatee Springs’ wildlife and spectacular assortment of cypress bushes from its 800-foot-long boardwalk in the course of the cooler months. In the meantime, the hotter months are perfect for swimming, canoeing and paddleboarding, amongst different actions. Scuba diving – which is permitted on a first-come, first-served foundation – is particularly widespread thanks to the spring’s in depth community of underwater caves. You possibly can go to the park between 8 a.m. and sundown year-round. Count on to pay $4 or $6 per car (the precise quantity relies on how many individuals are with you). Water sports activities tools leases value up to $50 per merchandise.

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Three Sisters Springs: Crystal River

A part of the Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, the one place in Florida the place it is authorized to swim with manatees in winter, Three Sisters Springs beckons to animal lovers. On this space roughly 90 miles north of St. Petersburg, guests can swim with manatees by way of respected third-party tour operators like River Ventures and Plantation Journey Heart. Moreover, vacationers can go kayaking and paddleboarding, although tools leases should not obtainable on-site. The property additionally includes a boardwalk and mountain climbing trails. Three Sisters Springs welcomes guests each day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entrance charges vary from $7.50 to $20 per particular person, relying on the season and the age of the person. Bear in mind, entry to the water – which is permitted from dawn to sundown – requires paddling to the realm from close by Kings Bay; the primary entrance is just for guests staying on land.(*16*)(*16*)

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park: Wakulla Springs

A handy possibility for vacationers visiting the state’s capital, Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is the place to go to see what Florida seemed like earlier than it was developed. Right here, you will discover historic cypress bushes, wild alligators and manatees, and the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, which you will acknowledge from basic movies like “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure” and “Creature from the Black Lagoon.” Take a tour of the springs through a river boat or glass-bottom boat (obtainable on choose days), or go swimming within the refreshing 70-degree water. Then, take a look at the park’s Spanish-style lodge. Constructed within the Nineteen Thirties, the lodge options every thing from a painted foyer ceiling to an unique artwork deco elevator. Wakulla Springs sits lower than 14 miles south of Tallahassee and is open every day from 8 a.m. to sundown. You may pay $4 or $6 per car to enter, relying on the variety of occupants.

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Wekiwa Springs State Park: Apopka

Floridians and out-of-state guests who’re planning a Walt Disney World Resort trip ought to put aside a while for a daytrip to Wekiwa Springs State Park. Located 36 miles north of Walt Disney World’s theme parks and inns, lovely Wekiwa Springs – central Florida’s oldest vacationer attraction – is among the Orlando space’s closest and hottest springs. Vacationers can spend hours swimming in, snorkeling by way of or canoeing on the spring’s crystal-clear water. These with mobility points or youngsters in tow will even recognize the park’s plentiful facilities, together with a hydraulic elevate for getting out and in of the water, and a concession stand that sells snacks, drinks, sunscreen, tubes and even underwater cameras. Wekiwa Springs is open from 8 a.m. to sundown year-round. Entry charges fluctuate relying on how many individuals are in a bunch, however anticipate paying $4 or $6 per car.(*16*)(*16*)

Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Fort White

Travel roughly 100 miles west of St. Augustine to add a dose of nature to your Florida getaway. At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, you will discover three nature trails and eight linked crystalline springs. Tubing is one of the simplest ways to expertise Ichetucknee Springs. As you float by way of the park, hold your eyes peeled for turtles and manatees. For a more in-depth have a look at a few of these marine creatures, plus underwater caves, go swimming, snorkeling or diving on the park’s Blue Gap Spring. Ichetucknee Springs permits guests from 8 a.m. to sundown year-round. A car price of $4 or $6 applies whether or not you employ the north or south entrance, although tube leases are solely obtainable on the south entrance. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, automobiles can’t transcend the south entrance, so it’s essential to hike or trip the tram (which prices $5.50 per particular person) to get to the springs.(*16*)(*16*)

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park: Homosassa

This spring roughly 70 miles north of Tampa is considered one of Florida’s most unusual pure springs. Within the early 1900s, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park served as a well-liked cease alongside a prepare route. By the Sixties, it housed skilled unique animals showing in TV exhibits and films. Although the park is not used for this goal, you might even see a little bit of Homosassa Springs’ previous if you go to. Former animal actor Lu (a hippo) nonetheless lives on-site. Native species like alligators, flamingos and black bears additionally reside right here. To see a few of these animals, go on a pontoon boat tour or take part in a wildlife encounter program. Your entrance price, which prices $13 for adults and $5 for kids older than 5, covers each actions. Swimming and water sports activities should not allowed. The park is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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Silver Glen Springs Recreation Space: Salt Springs

Situated about 50 miles west of Daytona Seaside alongside Ocala Nationwide Forest’s jap edge, the Silver Glen Springs Recreation Space is called after a collection of springs that boast clear turquoise water and pristine white sand. It is hardly shocking, then, that Silver Glen Springs is widespread with water lovers. Guests can soar into the water to swim or snorkel, or keep above the floor and discover by canoe. When vacationers want a break from the water, they will take a look at the stays of a Timucuan settlement or trek the mile-long forest path, which takes hikers to close by Lake George (Florida’s second-largest lake). Related to different sections of the forest, Silver Glen Springs typically welcomes daytrippers from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is $6 per particular person. Canoe leases begin at $16 for 2 hours of use; nevertheless, guests can keep away from this further price by bringing their very own tools.

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Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park: Excessive Springs

Plan a visit 28 miles northwest of Gainesville to Florida’s latest state park for a fun-filled day in and on the water. Owned and operated by investor Ruth B. Kirby and her relations from 1958 till 2017 – when the realm was bought to the state – Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park now attracts Floridians and out-of-state guests who need to go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing or paddleboarding. Whereas exploring the park’s 5 springs, which keep a cushty 72 levels year-round, vacationers could spot osprey, turtles and water snakes, amongst different kinds of animals. Vacationers may also admire lovely fall foliage from Gilchrist Blue Springs’ practically mile-long nature path come autumn. On-site facilities embrace picnic tables, grills and a concession stand with meals, drinks and water sports activities tools leases. Opening hours are from 8 a.m. to sundown every day, and car charges vary from $4 to $6.(*16*)(*16*)

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Weeki Wachee

No Florida spring provides the identical type of memorable, family-friendly enjoyable as what you will discover at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Located roughly 55 miles north of Tampa and roughly 90 miles west of Orlando alongside U.S. Route 19, this first-magnitude spring options an ambiance paying homage to its early years as a high roadside attraction. Right here, you’ll be able to watch “mermaids” carry out underwater, zip down waterslides and embark on a river boat cruise identical to guests – together with celebrities like Elvis Presley and Esther Williams – have accomplished because the Nineteen Forties. Plus, Weeki Wachee Springs supplies numerous alternatives for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing, must you need to get pleasure from extra conventional out of doors actions. Water sports activities tools might be rented by way of an on-site supplier. The park’s year-round visiting hours are from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The price to enter is $13 for adults and $8 for youths between 6 and 12.(*16*)(*16*)(*16*)

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