More than 700 natural freshwater springs may be found in Florida, including many swimmable springs only a short distance from Orlando's International Airport. Natural springs in Florida are the ideal spot to unwind during the hot, humid summers and mild winters that the state experiences.
These spring-fed swimming holes are crystal clear and maintain temperatures between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making them immensely popular with both locals and visitors alike, according to the National Park Service.
Many are bordered by parkland, which provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other pre-swim activities for families. Water slides and tiny water parks are among the other options.
We've compiled a list of our ten best natural springs in Florida, all of which are conveniently situated near Orlando. Plan a vacation to take a dip in one of these cool springs with the family to take advantage of the natural splendor that Central Florida has to offer.
See The Best Natural Springs Near Orlando Florida
- On weekends, especially, the majority of these parks are completely booked when they first open their doors. If at all possible, plan your vacation during a weekday to avoid the crowds at the theme parks.
- Make sure to pack sunscreen to protect your skin and plenty of drink to ensure that you keep properly hydrated.
- When going fishing, make sure you have a valid Florida Freshwater Fishing License on your person at all times.
- It is highly advised that you bring a mask, snorkel, and water shoes.
- Carry your phone and other valuables in a waterproof carrying case to avoid becoming wet.
- It is possible to spot alligators and snakes in these springs, however, this is not a typical occurrence. If you come across an alligator, notify a member of the team so that they can take the necessary measures.
Blue Spring State Park – Orange City
Blue Spring, which is located along the St. John's River and discharges over 100 million gallons of water each day, is the largest spring in the area. Scuba diving, snorkeling, tubing, and swimming are among the activities available (during summer). Hiking along the nature walk or visiting the ancient Thursby House are two activities that kids could enjoy. A variety of picnic shelters and a playground provide opportunities for all-day enjoyment.
Blue Spring transforms into a warm-water haven for hundreds of West Indian manatees during the winter months, and it is one of the greatest spots to watch manatees in Central Florida during this time. All water-related activities at the spring are prohibited from mid-November to the end of March in order to ensure the safety of the manatees.
Juniper Springs – Silver Springs
In addition to the deep blue spring, there is a beautiful, subtropical landscape and constructed limestone walls surrounding the spring. Hundreds of little bubbling springs, in addition to the big spring, make up Juniper Springs' water supply, which collectively produces about 7 million gallons of water every day. Swimmers of all ages will enjoy the shallow end and deep end of the swimming area, which is suitable for both children and adults.
Aside from the picnic sites and strolling pathways, there's also snorkeling to be had. Other popular activities in Juniper Springs include canoeing, kayaking, and camping, to name a few. In Florida, wildlife may be found in abundance surrounding most natural springs; you can even see an otter along a spring stream or an American eel in a patch of tape grass!
Rock Springs at Kelly Park – Apopka
With crystal clear water that stays at 68 degrees all year long, this free-flowing freshwater spring is known as Florida's natural "lazy river" by locals. Visitors may rent tubes at a number of locations outside the park, or they can bring their own tubes to use for the trip downstream.
Additionally, a huge swimming area is available in the park. There are full-service refreshments available, as well as picnic pavilions and a large playground for the children. Rentals for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards are also available on site.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park – Spring Hill
This natural spring serves as both a swimming hole and an aquatic amusement park, with water slides, mermaid performances, underwater tunnels, and other attractions scattered across 200 acres of property. Located in Weeki Wachee, the Buccaneer Bay water park has a white sand beach, water slides, a natural lazy river, and a Lil' Mates cove with a water play area for children ages 6 and smaller.
The world-famous Mermaids of Weeki Wachee play in a submerged theater in Weeki Wachee, Florida. Buccaneer Bay has a seasonal restaurant that is open during the summer months. There are several concession stands and picnic pavilions around the park. A playground, a wildlife encounter, paddling, canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and boat cruises along the river are all available as additional activities.
Wekiwa Springs State Park – Apopka
This 7,800-acre park, which is only a short drive from downtown Orlando, is home to an emerald spring that generates 43 million gallons of water every day. Arrive early because it is quite popular, especially during the summer months, and frequently hits capacity.
Over half an acre in size, the shallow swimming area has an approximate depth of 4 feet and is over half an acre deep. Camping, Snorkeling, bicycling, geocaching, hiking, fishing, picnic pavilions, and a nature center are some of the other activities available at the park.
Silver Glen Springs – Salt Springs
Silver Glen Springs, which is located off the coast of Lake George (the second biggest lake in Florida), is a favorite destination for boaters since it allows them to anchor in the crystal clear waters outside of the bathing area. The swimming hole is accessible to people of all ages due to the gradually sloping spring basin and shallow water. Bring snorkeling equipment if you want to see the profusion of fish that may be seen in the spring.
Visitors may take a trip on two nature paths or rent a boat or kayak to explore the area. Make use of the available picnic tables and BBQ grills to enjoy a full day of outdoor recreation in the sun. The spring is also a notable archeological site, containing enormous mounds (known as middens) that have been safeguarded behind fences for thousands of years and were considered sacred by Native Americans who originally lived in the area surrounding the spring.
Rainbow Springs State Park – Dunnellon
First-magnitude spring with a succession of minor vents that spew more than 400 million gallons of water per day, this spring is one of Florida's largest and most impressive natural features. There are depths ranging from 5 to 18 feet in these crystal-clear sapphire-blue waters, which make this a favorite swimming spot. In addition, there is a tiny wading area for toddlers. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also permitted within the buoyed swim area. Please keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty in the swimming pool area. During the summer months, tubing is a popular pastime at this park. Guests may explore the river by renting tubes, canoes, and kayaks from the property.
In addition to the springs, the family may enjoy the gardens, constructed waterfalls, nature walks, and butterfly gardens which are all located on the grounds. Concessions and picnic areas are also offered on the premises.
De Leon Springs State Park – De Leon Springs
The Mayaca Native Americans lived in this area for almost 6,000 years, and the park has a long and illustrious history. Enjoy the dedicated 72-degree, 500-foot spring-fed swimming area, which also has a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. A view of the swimming area is provided by Spring Garden Run, which discharges 19 million gallons of water every day. The depth of this Florida spring fluctuates from a modest 18 inches to a maximum of 30 feet at the spring boil, depending on the season.
Make sure to carry snorkeling equipment if you want to examine the relics beneath the water's surface. Nature paths, a fishing pier, boat excursions, picnic pavilions, a playground, and a visitor center with exhibits and a touch table are some of the other attractions available at the park. PLEASE NOTE: There are no lifeguards on duty at this swimming hole at the present time.
The park was also the site of the first water-powered sugar mill in Florida, which was erected in 1832 and is still standing today. Modern-day Sugar Mill Restaurant now allows park guests to make their own pancakes on table-top griddles, a new addition to the restaurant. To ensure that your name is placed on the waiting list, please arrive early.
Alexander Springs – Altoona
Alexandra Springs is one of only 27 first magnitude springs in the state, which means it generates in excess of 64 million gallons of water per day, making it one of the state's most productive springs. It contains a sand beach area as well as a 300-foot spring basin for wading and swimming that is available throughout the year.
The setting of this natural spring in Florida is ideal for smaller children, thanks to its moderate slope and crystal-clear waters. Mountain biking, camping, fishing, nature walks, and scuba diving are some of the other activities available to families. Boat and kayak rentals are also available on the lake.
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