Florida is the state with the most springs in
the country, and mostly in the world. The Highly porous limestone that can hold
vast quantities of water underlies most of the state. Combined with relatively
high rainfall amounts and subsurface water flow, the two are responsible for
the occurrence of so many springs in Florida. All of Florida’s springs are
around 70 degrees Fahrenheit all year round!
As visitors and/or residents we can all enjoy
some of the beautiful Central Florida springs that feed our rivers. You can swim, snorkel, dive, boat, kayak, hike, picnic, camp, take boat rides, enjoy wild life and just overall experience the beauty of Florida.
Blue Springs
Blue Springs State Park covers more than 2,600 acres, including the
largest spring on the St. Johns River. Blue Spring is a designated
Manatee Refuge and the winter home to a growing population of West
Indian Manatees. During manatee season, which approximately runs from
mid-November through March, several hundred manatee can be viewed atop
the spring’s overlooks. The spring and spring run are closed to all
water activity while manatees are present during this time. Swimming or
diving with manatees is not permitted.
The spring´s crystal clear, 73 degree water can be enjoyed by
swimmers, snorkelers, and certified scuba divers with a partner during
our designated swimming season. Fishing, canoeing and boating are also
enjoyed along the St. John’s River.
A self-guided tour inside The Historic Thursby house, built in 1872,
can also be experienced. In addition the park has plenty of picnic areas
as well as three covered pavilions. Air-conditioned cabins and a
full-facility campground are available for visitors interested in
staying overnight.
De Leon Springs
The outstanding feature of the De Leon Springs 625 acre park is the spring, overlooking
beautiful Spring Garden Run, producing 19 million gallons of water a
day at 72 degrees year-round. The swimming area is accessible by
stairs, ramp, and a swimmer lift.
Snorkeling is a popular activity but access into the cave is
prohibited. Canoes, paddleboats and kayaks may be rented from the
park's concession. The park's paddling trail provides access to the
22,000 acre Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, with lakes, creeks
and marshes to explore.
Picnic tables, grills and a playground are available under the grand live oak trees, with four pavilions available for rent. Visitors can hike the 4.2 mile Wild Persimmon Hiking Trail or take a
leisurely stroll on the one-half mile paved Nature Trail to see the 600
year-old cypress tree. The Butterfly Garden has about 500 plants for
the benefit of resident and migrating butterflies and hummingbirds.
De Leon Springs Website 601 Ponce Deleon Blvd, De Leon Springs, FL 32130
Silver Springs
Silver Springs State Park combines the charm of a historic
Florida attraction with the crystal clear beauty of one of the last
uninhabited spring runs in the state.
Enjoy the headspring from a viewing deck, walk along the river on paved
trails, see the ornamental gardens, and enjoy an easy stroll through the
Real Florida. Visitors can enjoy a meal from the restaurant with a view
of the spring. Glass bottom boat rides and canoe and kayak rentals are
offered through the concessionaire.
Visitors can paddle down the crystal clear river, hike
or bike along one of the nature trails, or just sit and watch the wide
variety of birds and wildlife.The picnic area features three pavilions
available for rental with grills and a playground nearby. For overnight
stays, the park has a 59 site full facility campground and 10 modern
cabins.
Silver Springs Website 1425 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470
