Florida is home to more than 1,000 natural springs between the sun-soaked beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, drawing 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 host hundreds of plants and animals. They also provide drinking water that comes from the aquifer.
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.
Most people don’t even realize that you can stay inside Kings Landing. And, inside, I mean behind the closed gates of one of Central Florida’s best-kept secrets. You can and don’t have to tent it unless your heart is set on camping. Kings Landing has five cabins available for rent. Here are the ten reasons…
If you want to explore some of Florida’s most stunning scenery, then Kings Landing, Florida, should be high on your list of places to visit. Numerous theme parks and attractions attract tourists from all over the world to Orlando. Nevertheless, Central Florida offers plenty of other things to do that are as exciting as theme…
Homosassa Springs is well known to most people in Florida. The town of Homosassa is considered by many to be the scalloping capital of Florida. And, many folks will tell you it’s the manatee capital of Florida. Homosassa is indeed famous for both, but the neighboring town of Crystal River also claims these accolades. Regardless,…
When I tell most people about the Mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs in Florida, I am met with raised eyebrows. The Mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs underwater extravaganza only takes place at Weeki Wachee Springs! Typically, people think I am talking about a theater-style Broadway show, and most assume I mean a show about Disney’s…
The Devils Den Spring – a Prehistoric Spring is something most Floridians know about. A couple of years ago, a spree of promotional videos captivated the imagination of anyone who did not know about this spring. If you’ve seen any of those videos or pictures like me, you probably wonder what it’s like to visit….
I was somewhat reluctant to write this article because the Rainbow River Florida is unlike anything you will ever experience. It is not full of tourists, nor is it full of city slickers. It is a natural, old-fashioned watering hole where people tube the river, drink beer, connect tubes, drag their stash in a cooler,…
The natural springs of Suwannee Springs, formerly known as Suwannee Sulfur Springs, are located in Suwannee Springs, Florida, not far from Live Oak. Suwannee Springs was once a popular tourist destination and hotel. The Suwannee River Water Management District is currently responsible for its administration. While it might not be one of the most visually…
Whenever I see content related to Ginnie Springs, I automatically roll my eyes. Aside from the fact that it’s probably the most publicized spring in Florida and potentially the most well-known, it is my least favorite of all – and by a long shot. I know that those who love Ginne Springs will violently disagree,…
Blue Spring State Park in Florida, not to be confused with Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs, is the first spring I ever swam in. It’s also the first place where I saw a manatee. Blue Spring State Park will always hold a special place in my heart, as many of my summer days have…
Seven Sisters Springs on the Chassahowitzka River, not to be confused with Three Sisters, is by far one of my favorites. Not only is it in my backyard, absolutely gorgeous, but it’s an amazing spring to spend an afternoon. There’s a certain vibe about Seven Sisters Springs that invites you to relax. I’ve spent many…