) Rock Springs Tubing Website | Facebook. Tourists are attracted to the abundance of wildlife and it is one of the most popular springs in Tampa, during the summer season. Depending on your location, some popular Florida springs for swimming include Ichetucknee Springs State Park near Gainesville, known for its pristine water and tubing adventures, and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park on the Gulf Coast, where you can swim in the spring-fed water and even catch a live mermaid show. Best Natural Springs in Florida Springs discharging an average of 100 cubic feet of water per second or more are called first-magnitude springs. Natural Springs Near Tampa You } Most people dont associate Florida with natural springs. Most of these stunning springs around Tampa are short drives, which makes it a perfect weekend getaway from the hectic schedules of life. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. It is one of the most delightful springs in Tampa, shaped in the form of a pool. Fresh and saltwater fish still remain in the natural spring and increase their beauty. The closest swimming spring near Lakeland is Lithia Springs Park near Brandon, FL and Riverview. 13 Most Insane Abandoned Places In Florida You Have To See, 13 Best Party Beaches in Florida For Good Music and Dance, Kids' Choice: 9 Best Zoos in Florida for Family Adventures, 10 Best Campsites in Florida You should Reserve Right Now, 11 Best Gay Beaches in Florida: Soak Up the Sun at LGBTQ Beaches, 11 Best Miami Souvenirs You Want to Bring Back from Florida, 12 Best Places to Live in Florida in 2023, 8 Prettiest Springs in Ocala That Everyone Must Visit, 22 Exciting Things To Do In Anna Maria Island, FL 2023. VISIT FLORIDA is a service mark of the Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation, d/b/a VISIT FLORIDA, registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. 4150 S Suncoast Blvd Homosassa, Florida 34446. Trust me, this is Old Florida at its finest and one of the best springs in North Florida. One can bring their own kayak or rent it at the site. Ever wondered whats the best place to camp in Florida? Ichetucknee Springs & River State Park, Fort White 2. Details Map. There are a variety of attractions, in these springs, and you can choose any one of them, for your day off. Visitors are welcome to bring their own tubes or rent from outside vendors, but the most convenient option is to rent from Paddling Adventures, the park concessionaire, a concierge tubing and paddling rental service with convenient services such as equipment and parking reservations and shuttles. Combining the charm of a historic Florida attraction with the crystal clear beauty of one of the last uninhabited spring runs in the state, Silver Springs State Park is a popular spot for glass-bottom boat tours where its possible to spot turtles and alligators roaming the waters. Florida has so many springs that our state geological survey ranks these by size based on how much water comes out of them. If kids are present, life jackets are a must for them. Her writing is inspired by her passion to travel to new destinations and inspire others to get out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty of this world - whether they travel around the world or in their own countries. Admission, mermaid shows, and boat rides are all first come first served, no reservations are available. Security maintains a tight check and it is important to preserve one of the most beautiful springs in Tampa. It is one of the many springs near Tampa to kayak, and canoes and kayaks can be easily found to rent. The headwaters are a semicircular spring with four main boils. Most guests enter the water at the Beavers Landing river access point, spend an hour or so floating down the river to the Tube Exit at Twin Spring, then take a 15 minute walk back to the Ginnie Spring parking lot. Tip: Security is very strict with litter. This summer, its time for you to get into the car and explore the best natural springs near Tampa, where real fun waits for you! By subscribing I agree to the terms and privacy policy. The minimum height for slides is 42 and 48. At 72 degrees year-round, the highlight of De Leon Springs State Park is the beautiful spring that overlooks Spring Garden Run. It is a great opportunity to relax in a naturally beautiful setting, maintained strictly to offer great attractions. The springs in Ocala like all in Florida have sparkling crystal clear water perfect for swimming, scuba diving or exploring on kayaks and paddle boards. Floating above the shallow sandy bottom of this spring you can spot a mix of fresh and saltwater fish. Even though the Florida beaches are very famous but the springs in Florida near Tampa, have a quiet beauty of their own. Tip: While floating, one must take the north entrance towards the south of Ichetucknee River. Natural Springs Near Tampa Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by adults at all times. It's a beautiful place to cool off and enjoy the fun for all ages with slides feeding into Buccaneer Bay, especially when combined with a water park for the youngsters. Ichetucknee Siltsnail, Santa Fe Cave Crayfish, and beautiful species of butterflies can also be found. Photograph: Shutterstock. Springs in Central Florida This whole place is a diverse area enriched with beautiful plants and wildlife; one of the best springs in Tampa for camping. Open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays, serving until 4 p.m. Visit the Sugar Mill Restaurant website for more info. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Swimmers can enjoy the gorgeous blues and greens of the Florida natural springs while divers may explore the freshwater cave system, which has been verified to be the deepest in North America. Locals go to the area to witness these gentle giants interacting in their native setting, which is enjoyed by photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. In this gorgeous spring in Florida, snorkelers and scuba divers can discover a little more fun in the waters. Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, Live Oak Springs in Central Florida 8. Web4150 S Suncoast Blvd Homosassa, Florida 34446 (352) 628-5343 Visit Website. Most people dont associate Florida with natural springs. The spring water is very refreshing and open to all tourists. Photo Credit: Adventure Ocala, Other things to do at Juniper Springs: Hiking, Canoe + Kayak, Camping Admission: $12 (prices per person plus tax, check website for current prices) Location: 26701 State Road 40, Silver Springs, FL Juniper Springs is 30 miles east of Ocala and 60 miles north/northwest of Orlando Adventure Ocala Website | USDA Website | Facebook, Often described as the most beautiful spring in the Ocala National Forest, youll experience constant 73F crystal-clear water at the popular swimming hole. For starters, this is the deepest freshwater spring in the world; don't miss a chance to perform your best cannonball from the swimming platform. Fee: Adults need to pay $13 while children aged 6-12 must pay $8 to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural springs near Tampa. Natural Springs Near {Speaking from experience, youll wait in an entry line out in the sun, so plan accordingly} Admission: $13 for adults, $8 for children ages 6 to 12. 9. During this time, tube rentals are first come, first served. If you buy something through one of those links, you wont pay any extra penny, but Ill get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you. When Will McLean wrote this famous composition, The Beauty of Florida below me as thermal air currents.. many folk artists were inspired by it. The entire place is beautifully surrounded by forests of maples, sweetgum, and cabbage palms. Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are some of the most well-liked activities as well as touring the nearby paths lined with cabbage palms, magnolias, and maples. Im very, Read More 12 Best Places to Live in Florida in 2023Continue, In my search forcheap places to travel in the USA,I came across Ocala National Forest. Tip: If one is visiting in the months of January to March, they should enjoy watching the Florida manatees which swim through the river during this time. Visitors flock to these blue-green natural springs, especially in summers, with their kids. Best Natural Springs in Florida There are multiple options for swimming springs near Lakeland and within a 2 hour drive. The float run lasts about an eighth of a mile, 15 minutes or so. Natural Springs In Florida Dense foliage surrounds the swimming area, providing shade and a tropical swimming experience. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. Visit Website, 4150 S Suncoast Blvd Natural springs in Florida Make your kids wear a life jacket if it will give you peace of mind (or is required). Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. You must get a voucher in the morning once the park hits the initial capacity to be able to gain access at the 1 p.m. re-open time. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. Tampa is one of the top growing cities in Florida. Millions of tourists come here each year to relax on the sand, attend music and art festivals, get up close and personal with numerous endangered exclusive species. Limit of 3,000 tubers per day from the Midpoint launch, which is the longer tube ride. Visitors can either take a guided tour and learn about the manatees, introducing them to one of the most endearing endangered species, or they can rent a canoe, kayak, or snorkel equipment and explore the park on their own. Published May 28, 2022. This list of the best natural springs near Tampa will come as a blessing from the usual Florida heat. 1. The Sunshine State is one of the most beautiful landscapes of America, adorned with beaches, springs, wildlife, oak forests, etc. Water shoes / shoes you dont mind getting wet (these arent required but many spring areas can be slippery or have rocky bottoms), Alexander Springs Recreation Area Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs Recreation Area Ocala National Forest, Silver Glen Springs Ocala National Forest, Ocala National Forest Salt Springs Recreation Area, Tips for Tubing in Florida or visiting Springs in Florida. This spring is the closest to us at just 30-45 minutes from Lakeland. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Atypical Adventures in the Sunshine State. Animal lovers can spot wood storks in the towering cypress trees, little blue herons and tri-colored herons foraging along the banks. 1. If you have a kayak, make sure to bring it along Fanning Springs feeds the legendary Suwannee River, so you'll definitely want to spend some time paddling while youre there. Bicycles and pets are not allowed in the area. You can rent one from a vendor outside the park, but the easiest option is to bring your own tube or float that is less than 5 tall/wide and your own air compressor. Florida Springs Photo Credit: Adventure Ocala, Other things to do at Alexander Springs: Hiking, Canoe + Kayak, Camping, Scuba Diving Admission: $12 (prices per person plus tax, check website for current prices) Location: 49525 CR 445, Altoona, FL Located east of Ocala in the Ocala National Forest Adventure Ocala Website | USDA Website | Facebook, One of the oldest and best-known National Forest recreation areas in the eastern United States, Juniper Springs Recreation Area includes a millhouse with a working water wheel on a crystal clear spring and 100 foot wide freshwater spring surrounded by a stone wall. Silver Springs: Best Springs Near Tampa Floats: There are no tube rentals inside the park. Enjoy swimming, diving, and exploring these Ocala natural springs including Rainbow Springs. Offering a range of outdoor activities throughout the year, these are some of the best springs in Florida to go swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, hiking and fishing. Salt Springs/ Ocala National Forest / Lauren R. Gay. (352) 796-0515 Check the current schedule for boat hours. Salt Springs/ Ocala National Forest / Lauren R. Gay. Your email address will not be published. Nearly 900 springs bubble to the surface in Florida. Nature Travel 16 Most Beautiful Freshwater Springs in Florida Crystal-clear and a refreshing temperature year-round, Florida's springs are the swimming holes of your dreams. It is not one in, one out, so be sure if you are going with friends, you all arrive together. Blue splash icons indicate springs where you can go swimming, red tube icons are springs where you can go tubing and swimming. However, with more than 700 springs, Florida actually has the largest collection on earth. As of publishing, tubing is $22 per person including transportation. Ginnie Springs is one of Florida's purest springs and a favorite site for swimming, tubing, snorkeling, and diving. Swim in its emerald waters,enjoy a picnic surrounded by lush foliage or hop in a canoe for a scenic adventure. Florida Springs Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. It is one of Central Florida's oldest and best springs, with evidence of over 10,000 years of existence. Swimming Rainbow Spring is known for its extraordinarily clear water and the headspring is open to swimmers. Headsprings Entrance (swimming and snorkeling): 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432 This entrance will close for the remainder of the day once the park reaches capacity. DeLeon Springs State Park Distance from UCF: About an hour to an hour and 20 minutes; 50 miles Entrance fee: $6 per vehicle DeLeon Springs State Park is a scenic getaway in Volusia County packed with cultural history and a variety of nature activities. Florida has more large springs than any other state or even country. This place remains one of those springs near Tampa, which is the main attraction of Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area of Ocala National forest. Florida has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. Most visitors access the spring by tour boat, kayak or paddleboard, but the new Three Sisters Springs boardwalk is open on a limited basis. Homosassa, Florida 34448, 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr The best season to visit this place, according to locals is spring, but it remains most populated during summers. Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs 6. Once the park is full, no more admission tickets are sold for the remainder of the day. The grounds also offer RV parking, pavilions, and walks of nature, making it one of the ideal places for a quiet picnic with family members or a romantic getaway. More than just its kitschy nostalgia, this is a beautiful 538 acres of natural oasis is also a developed state park where you can go on outdoor adventures such as swimming, snorkeling and river cruising. Others hire kayaks and canoes, so they can better appreciate the enormous areas that feed into local rivers. Crystal River, Florida 34429 Parking along the road is not allowed. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. Its a great place to take the kids with its gently sloped spring pool. The headwaters are Visit Website, 8600 W Miss Maggie Dr There is no swimming or access to the Wekiva River at Rock Springs Run State Reserve. It is one of the best places to kayak with manatees in Florida. One has to make sure that they do not carry any disposal bags in the area. (Tubing is an additional cost) Location: Dunnellon, FL 34432 Rainbow Springs State Park is 23 miles west of Ocala, and 40 miles north of Brooksville. IMPORTANT Capacity Info + Access Points: Rainbow Springs has two separate areas of the state park for water access. Man-made waterfalls and natural gardens surround nature trails, making it a popular destination for Florida birders. Salt Springs is one of the prettiest and most unique springs in Florida. (NOTE mermaid shows are subject to cancellation based on cold temperatures and inclement weather, thunderstorms are more likely later in the day so go early if this is important to you! Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs offer glass-bottom boat tours. Many recreational activities may also be found like hiking, camping, paddling across the beautiful river, a trip to the museum, etc. Nearly 900 springs bubble to the surface in Florida. "Is it real or am I dreaming?" Kayaking, tubing, swimming, and canoeing are also available to visitors, as well as campgrounds with picnic grills, tables, and volleyball courts. Florida springs near me to swim. A spacious green lawn surrounds the beach area, perfect for a picnic lunch or an afternoon nap in the sun. Swimming + Snorkeling Swimming is permitted from 8 a.m. until a half-hour before sunset (park closing). Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs offer glass-bottom boat tours. The dazzling blue waters of the springs make it one of the most beautiful springs in Florida. Details Map. Florida has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. Considered to be one of the great springs in Tampa, the waters are best enjoyed by canoeing or kayaking. Most springs and tubing locations have regulations about float sizes, coolers, alcohol, glass containers, pets, etc. Florida has the most freshwater springs on the planet, over 700, all of which have the most breathtaking and memorable sights. History, nature and film buffs, if the scenery looks like something from a Tarzan movie, that's because it is. Best Natural Springs in Florida is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. The headwaters are a semicircular spring with four main boils. While springs offer many recreational opportunities to Floridians and visitors including swimming, tubing, diving, and kayaking, springs also support entire ecosystems with unique plants and animals and are a unique opportunity to experience wild Florida. This is a part of the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, Florida Metropolitan Statistical area. The 1,000 feet of subterranean channels beneath a 50-foot head spring that lead to another mind-boggling 30,000 feet of passages are the crown and pearl of this location, a haven for cave and open-water divers seeking adventure. The spring is also a significant archeological site, and visitors can see a variety of fossilized snail shells embedded in middens along the shoreline. Florida is well-known for its beautiful scenery and natural wonders. )The first mermaid show at Weeki Wachee was in 1947. Enjoy swimming, diving, and exploring these Ocala natural springs including Rainbow Springs. From manatee spotting to snorkeling in emerald waters, here are the top springs in Central Florida. One can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and snorkeling in this peaceful spring. It is one of the springs near Tampa, which is very famous for its beautiful picnic locations since the 1900s. Natural Springs Your email address will not be published. Most springs stay around 70-72 degrees year-round, providing a refreshing place to swim and go Florida springs tubing for a day of outdoor fun. Natural Springs Near Tampa You Most Beautiful Natural Springs in Florida. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. We know you are busy parents and promise to keep them short, sweet, useful, and only once a week. Many natural springs are open to the public year-round near Orlando and are all popular destinations for swimming, boating, camping, and more. With a chance to spot a turtle swimming through the lilies, this area is a great place to snorkel and gawk at the plethora of colorful fish in its first-magnitude spring. You can bring your own (air fill station available) or rent a tube at the park. Kelly Park, located in the middle of Apopka , is only 1 hour and 32 minutes away from Tampa. Kelly Park Rock SpringsPhoto Credit: Orange County Parks, Capacity Limits: Each morning, 280 vehicles will be allowed entry, and an additional 50 vehicles are allowed in after 1 p.m. with an afternoon parking pass. Bring your snorkel to fully experience the beauty of Silver Glen Springs. On the site that was once a theme park in the 1930s-70s, visitors now enjoy the crystal clear waters of Rainbow Springs State Park as they swim in the spring, tube down the Rainbow River, and enjoy picnicking with friends and families. Whether optingfor the comfort of an RV,, Read More 10 Best Campsites in Florida You should Reserve Right NowContinue, With the temperature heating up, it is ideal to drop off your towel, hit the sand, kayak with manatees, swim with beautiful sea cows, and explore the beaches.