Florida’s brutal heat is nothing new. We are all used to the “feels like” temperature often being over 100 degrees.
One of the best ways to cool down during the blaring summer months is diving one of the state’s natural resources: freshwater springs. These natural water sources are typically colder than pools and even the ocean, making them a refreshing experience.
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There are several freshwater springs across Central Florida that provide a great way to beat the heat with your family. Most just require a low-cost admission fee to enter the parks they reside in. Whether you want to swim, boat, kayak, fish or simply spend time near the water, there is bound to be a place for you.
In Central Florida counties
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs is a crystal-clear water spring in Orange County that remains a refreshing temperature of 72 degrees all year. Apart from swimming, there are canoes and kayaks available to rent on-site. There are also places to relax by the water or have a picnic, along with a campground for those wanting to spend more time in the park.
Wekiwa Springs also consists of several miles of nature trails to be explored, and it is highly likely visitors will spot wildlife.
- Location: 1800 Wekiwa Circle in Apopka.
- Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown.
- Admission: $6 per vehicle.
Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is a nature preserve and freshwater spring located in Volusia County along the St. Johns River that stays in the low 70s all year round. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving to explore the extensive underwater cave system.
There are also camping areas that offer the option to stay at the park, along with a half-mile boardwalk that runs along the bank and features panoramic views or picturesque “old Florida” and displays that chronicle the history of the natural area. During the winter, Blue Spring is a popular gathering area for manatees.
The spring is closed, effective April 1, for in-water activities for construction projects.
- Location: 2100 W. French Ave. in Orange City.
- Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown.
- Admission: $6 per vehicle.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs State Park is home to the headspring of the Rainbow River. This park in Marion County, which used to be a family-owned attraction until it became a part of the state park system, is known for its lush gardens, constructed waterfalls and sloping hills.
Swimmers can enjoy a large roped-off area for swimming at the main park spring that resembles the crystal-clear nature of a pool, as the white sandy bottom lies between areas of smooth limestone. There are also tubes, canoes and kayaks available to rent for further water-based entertainment.
- Location: 19158 SW 81st Place Road in Dunnellon.
- Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown.
- Admission: Entry to the springs is $2 a person, with children 6 and under are free.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is one of the largest springs in the U.S. and home to the famous glass bottom boat tours.
While you cannot swim in these springs, it’s very popular for kayaking, hiking, camping and biking. There is also a bit of history to check out! Don’t miss out on the Silver River Museum and Environmental Educational Center, where you can check out exhibits on geology, paleontology, archaeology and natural history of north Central Florida.
- Location: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488
- Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown.
- Admission: $8 per vehicle.
De Leon Springs State Park
De Leon Springs State Park is a refreshing spring that offers opportunities for swimming and fishing located in west Volusia County. It is a great spot to cool off in clear waters or explore nature trails that wind through a lush, subtropical forest that features a massive old-growth bald cypress tree.
The park’s signature restaurant, the Old Sugar Mill Pancake House, is a great breakfast spot for families, and you can make your own pancakes right at your table. There are additionally boat tours that immerse visitors in the rich history and ecology of the protected area.
- Location: 601 Ponce De Leon Blvd. in De Leon Springs.
- Hours: 8 a.m. until sundown.
- Admission: $6 per vehicle.
Rock Springs at Kelly Park
Rock Springs is a crystal-clear natural spring encompassed by lush greenery at Kelly Park, a natural gem operated by Orange County. This park offers a great spot to swim, canoe, kayak or paddleboard in the cool waterway, though there are no rentals available on-site.
This park also has several nature trails and a campground for those interested in immersing themselves in the vibrant, natural environment that surrounds the springs.
- Location: 400 E Kelly Park Road in Apopka.
- Hours: Dawn to dusk.
- Admission: $3 per vehicle for 1-2 people; $5 per vehicle for 3-8 people; and $1 for additional person/walk-ins/motorcycles/bikes.
In the Ocala National Forest
Juniper Springs
Juniper Springs and the surrounding recreation area is one of the most popular destinations in the Ocala National Forest. The crystalline water of the headspring allows for swimming, canoeing and snorkeling, with the adjacent Juniper Springs Run being considered one of Florida’s most scenic kayak excursions.
There are additional opportunities for hiking, birding and wildlife viewing in the deeply shaded, lush natural areas surrounding the limestone-enveloped spring.
- Location: 26701 E Highway 40 in Silver Springs.
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Admission: $13 a person.
Silver Glen Springs
Silver Glen Springs is a popular swimming destination, with its 73-degree, clear water and variety of fish. This spring is a great place to swim, snorkel, kayak and canoe, as rentals are available for a trip down Silver Glen Run.
There are also two nature trails through the surrounding canopy of palms and other natural greenery in the area. There is the 3-mile, round trip Lake George Trail and the 0.75-mile, round trip Spring Boils Trail.
- Location: 5271 N Highway 19 in Fort McCoy.
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Admission: $13 a person.
Alexander Springs
Alexander Springs is another spring in the Ocala National Forest, with a shallow pool, sandy bear and crystal blue waters. It is perfect for swimming and relax near the water, as it is surrounded by maple, sweetgum and cabbage palm trees.
This recreation area also has a camping area and lies along the Florida National Scenic Trail, meaning there are several hiking opportunities. A 0.5 mile blue-blazed trail leads from the camping area to the main Trail, which is blazed orange. Alexander Springs to Clearwater Lake is 9.7 miles south. Alexander Springs to Farles Lake is 7 miles north.
- Location: 49525 County Rd 445 in Altoona
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Admission: $13 a person.
Salt Springs
Salt Springs is a diverse recreational area with the mineral spring, known for its slight salinity from various minerals. The water maintains a temperature of 74 degrees year-round and is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Salt Springs Run is also perfect for boating and fishing.
The campground at Salt Springs is the largest in the Ocala National Forest and has RV Hookups. There is additionally Salt Springs Trail, a scenic loop of less than two miles through the Big Scrub of the Ocala National Forest and the natural habitats that reside here.
- Location: 13851 FL-19 in Fort McCoy
- Hours: Operational hours vary by season. Call (877) 444-6777 for current hours details.
- Admission: $12 a person.
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