Explore Florida’s Natural Springs: A Guide to Old Florida
Ask a dozen different people what Old Florida means to them and you’ll get a dozen different answers. For some, it’s the slow pace. For others, it’s strolling among hundred-year-old oak groves, gazing at majestic native birds, or taking a boat ride past grand landscapes.
Whatever it means to you, it’s easy to come by when you visit any of the state’s natural springs. These areas embody the true, authentic Florida that many tourists often miss. The only tough part is deciding which ones to visit; there are more than 700 freshwater springs scattered across the Sunshine State, after all, with water temperatures around 70 degrees year-round. Here are some of the favorites.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve
A tour with Get Up And Go Kayaking enhances the experience at Rock Springs Run State Reserve. Guests have the opportunity to paddle through stunning waters in clear kayaks, allowing for easy spotting of fish and otters below.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll navigate down a narrow canal and explore amazing spots like Emerald Cut and Bonsai Bend, where a majestic oak arches above the water. The journey includes a great workout, with the first half of the trip upstream.
Be sure to wear your swimsuit; there’s a platform at Jacob’s Island perfect for a cannonball into the refreshing water below. Just 40 minutes from the world-renowned theme parks, this location allows you to unwind under a tree canopy, listen to the cicadas, and soak in the captivating scenery.
The surrounding forest is home to deer, herons, egrets, and the occasional black bear. Although alligators inhabit the area as well, they typically retreat away from human presence or remain sunbathing peacefully.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs State Park, about 16 miles from downtown Orlando, offers a splendid escape. Visitors can take a dip in the emerald springs any time of the year, hike trails, or venture about a mile downriver to Wekiva Island. This location is ideal for renting paddle boards while keeping an eye out for turtles and abundant birdlife.
After paddling, relax in a private cabana equipped with a cozy couch, adirondack chairs, and a grill. You can order charcuterie boards and craft beer directly from the onsite restaurant.
If you still have energy, hit the volleyball courts or enjoy a game of cornhole. If visiting in winter, don’t forget to bring supplies for s’mores, as there’s a fire pit available for roasting marshmallows.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, located about an hour north of Tampa, is celebrated for its famous “live mermaid” shows. However, the springs themselves are the true highlight. The turquoise waters shelter the deepest naturally formed underwater caverns in the U.S., and the park has been welcoming guests since 1947.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is one of the nation’s largest springs and boasts a rich history. In the 1820s, long before the theme park era, it was among the most visited attractions in Florida. The introduction of glass-bottom boats in the late 1870s allowed travelers to marvel at the springs’ beauty.
As you glide along the spring-fed river, be prepared to be amazed by the striking blue water, vibrant green algae, and an intricate network of underwater caves. Fish, alligators, and turtles are common sights, but keep an eye out for the non-native rhesus macaques that roam the 5,000 acres of lush forests and wetlands, as well as the endangered Florida manatee.
Crystal River
Visiting Crystal River’s Three Sisters Springs in winter almost guarantees a manatee sighting. While these gentle giants can be observed year-round in the clear, refreshing waters, the peak season runs from November to March when they seek warmer temperatures. This area is undoubtedly recognized as the manatee capital of the world.
Nearby Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a 210-acre preserve, is another excellent spot to see manatees year-round. Choose between a leisurely boat ride through the rain forest or viewing the animals from elevated boardwalks and bridges throughout the lagoons.
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
One delightful way to experience Ichetucknee Springs State Park is by floating along in a tube. Bring snorkeling gear as you make your way to the Blue Hole Spring via a half-mile trail adorned with cypress trees. This leads to the largest spring within the park, rich with diverse wildlife such as beaver, otters, gar, and softshell turtles, among others.
De Leon Springs State Park
Before embarking on your canoeing adventure at the historic De Leon Springs State Park (approximately one hour from Orlando), fuel up with breakfast at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House, located within a replica of an 1830s sugar mill, where diners can cook pancakes right at their table.
When you’re ready for exploration, kayak, canoe, or paddle boat down approximately 9½ miles from the springs into Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Spanning 18,000 acres of lakes and marshes, the refuge attracts various wildlife, including gopher tortoises, turkeys, deer, and alligators, offering endless opportunities for adventure.
Note: Always check the park’s website in advance. Canoe and kayak rentals may be unavailable if water levels are too high.
