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.
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…
Eagles Nest Sinkhole in Florida is famous among cave divers worldwide. Often referred to as the Mount Everest of cave diving, this sinkhole has more to offer than scuba diving. You’ll confront a deceptively calm pool that hides a deep, complex cave system known for its beauty and danger. Eagle’s Nest Sink sits inside Chassahowitzka Wildlife…
Orange Grove Sink is a popular diving spot located in the Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, about 25 minutes south of Live Oak. The park features several cave openings, but Orange Grove Sink is the only one open to recreational divers. It is an excellent place for cavern and cave diving, open-water diving, and…
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park is a 733-acre state park located in Live Oak, Florida. The park is named after Wes Skiles, a world-class explorer and diver who dedicated his life to exploring and documenting the underwater world. The park is renowned for its turquoise waters, extensive trails, and extensive underwater cave system, making…
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…
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…
Ruth Spring in Florida is a spring 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…
Crab Creek Spring is a hidden gem along the Chassahowitzka River. It is known for its serene beauty and unique underwater features. Accessible only by watercraft, this spring is perfect for those seeking tranquility away from more crowded locations. The area is surrounded by private land and a large private home, once home to the…
De Leon 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…