Florida’s natural springs astonish visitors with their clear, rushing water and visibility to depths of 80 feet and more. The springs are not a source of water, they are openings where a little of the two quadrillion gallons of water flowing underground through the Floridian aquifer reaches the surface. Camping near the springs affords incredible opportunities for snorkeling, diving, swimming, stargazing and watching wildlife. Springs can be found throughout the state and all types of accommodations are available from cabins to primitive campsites.
Florida Caverns State Park, built around the Blue Hole springs, is located northeast of Panama City along Interstate 10. The park offers 35 campsites for tent and RV camping. Stables are available for those bringing horses. A floating dock extends over the source of the spring, making it accessible to swimmers. The spring is 97 feet deep at times. In addition to the spring, Florida Caverns offers dry cave tours (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Visitors will enjoy stalactites, stalagmites and flow rocks during the 45-minute tour. Canoeing and wildlife viewing near the springs also are popular activities.
Florida Caverns State Park
3345 Caverns Road
Marianna, Florida 32446
850-482-9598
floridastateparks.org/floridacaverns
Located in central Florida, north of Orlando, Blue Springs State Park offers full facility camping and camping cabins. During the winter months (mid-November through March) manatees fill the springs to warm themselves in water that remains 73 degrees year-round. Weekend visitors should arrive early, since the park often fills to capacity as locals and tourists alike flock to see the manatees. Swimming may not be allowed when manatees are in the spring. Be sure to check with the park rangers before swimming. Snorkeling and diving are always popular in the clear water of the spring. Canoes and Kayaks can be rented on site and boat tours of the St Johns River are available. The campground has 51 sites with water, electricity and grills located in a scrub pine woods. Pets are welcome.
Blue Springs State Park
2100 West French Avenue
Orange City, Florida 32763
386-775-3663
floridastateparks.org/bluespring
Manatee Springs State Park surrounds a clear, cool spring that gushes 100 million gallons of water daily. The park offers scuba diving, cave diving and cavern diving. Snorkeling and swimming also are popular in the spring. Wildlife abounds in the form of manatees, wading birds and alligators. There are 92 campsites available in the park with water and electricity. Some sites are ADA accessible. Park rangers offer interpretive programs, including a Sunday morning breakfast. Bicycling and hiking also are offered. Pets on leashes are allowed. Facilities are available for boating, canoeing and kayaking.
Manatee Springs State Park
11650 N.W. 115th Street
Chiefland, Florida 32626
352-493-6072
floridastateparks.org/manateesprings
