Florida is home to over 1000 natural springs between the sun-soaked beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, which have drawn people to the state for thousands of years.
Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t just the source of fresh water; they’re just one part of the long journey water takes from the atmosphere to the land surface, into the ground through the Floridan Aquifer, and back to the surface.
They are of great ecological importance and are home to hundreds of plants and animals. They also provide drinking water that comes from the aquifer.
Five government agencies manage these bodies of water. The Florida Springs region has four water management districts, the first being the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
Some are state-run and state parks. Some are private; some are neither and are remote.
Long before theme parks came to town, the freshwater springs were the top tourist attraction in the state. Join us across the state to explore 40 of the best springs in Florida that you can still visit today. Filled with vivid photos from the past and present, this guide will show you a side of the Sunshine State you won’t see in commercials. Complete with information on conservation and a key for activities offered, this book is a must-have for locals and tourists alike.
Ruth Spring, Florida, is a spring that few people know about. If you do a quick Google search, the results will tell you that spring is closed. It’s not! And you can validate this on the state’s website! It’s open for all to enjoy. The best part, it’s free! Ruth Spring is not the most…
Telford Spring is a popular destination for cave diving and swimming in North Florida. It is located off State Route 51 among the many beautiful springs along the Suwannee River. The spring was once surrounded by private land. It officially opened to the public in April 2002 but could only be accessed legally from the…
Troy Springs State Park is a beautiful and historic destination in north Florida. The park is named after the first-magnitude spring, which is its centerpiece. It has been a popular swimming and diving spot for generations. The crystal-clear spring waters are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day, and the park offers a…
DeLeon Springs State Park in Florida has become the most popular place in this tourist-packed state. This State Park is one of the most beautiful and exciting places you can visit in the U.S. Before we get into the details of why you should visit, let’s clear up the naming! Officially, the park’s name is …
Kayaking Weeki Wachee Springs is one of Florida’s most fantastic kayak routes. The water here is as clear as it gets, the river is loaded with wildlife, and it’s a throwback to a slower pace of life. Manatees are a given; you’ll encounter herds of them. Gators are a possibility, and you might even see…
Royal Springs Park is a five-acre park in Suwannee County near O’Brien, Florida. Swimming and diving are two of the most popular activities in the park. It is a hidden treasure in the area that most people don’t know exists. Royal Spring is a free sping, mainly frequented by locals. This is a great place…
The natural springs of Suwannee Springs, formerly known as Suwannee Sulphur Springs, are located in Suwannee Springs, Florida, not far from Live Oak. Suwannee Springs used to be a popular tourist destination and hotel. Suwannee River, Water Management District, is presently in charge of its administration. While it might not be one of the most…
Wekiva Island, Florida, offers plenty of activities, including kayaking and swimming in the cool and unspoiled Wekiva River. Explore one of Orlando’s most popular local hang-out spots that is entirely authentic, natural, and non-touristy. If you ever want to experience what it’s like to navigate the Floridian rivers, experience springs, and bask in the sun…
Wekiva Falls RV Resort is one of the best resorts for those that love the great outdoors, springs, and camping. Close to the best attractions that Orlando or Daytona Beach has, it’s the perfect location to enjoy Central Florida’s attractions while basking in Florida’s wilderness. Add to this, the resort boasts a swimming pool that…
In addition to mermaid shows, riverboat cruises, and wildlife exhibits, Weeki Wachee Springs is one of Florida’s most unique family destinations, and it is to Buccaneer Bay Water Park. A great water park providing perfect summertime activity. Buccaneer Bay, Florida’s only spring-fed waterpark, is included in the price of admission to Weeki Wachee Springs State…