It’s no surprise that visiting Florida’s springs is becoming increasingly popular. Not only are they incredibly refreshing but their beauty is unmatched, as well. There are some things to know about Florida Springs before you pack your bags and head inland.
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Things to Know About Florida Springs
Where are the springs located?
A majority of the springs dot the landscape of the Panhandle, northern and central Florida. There are a handful around Orlando and nestled in the Ocala National Forest. Many of the springs are clustered around each other making them easy to spring hop- or travel to more than one spring in a day.
What are the best springs for kids?
Many of the springs are very deep making them difficult to visit with kids. The best springs for kids are often found in Florida State Parks. We have a post where we outline our favorite springs to visit with kids. It’s important to do your research if you’re traveling with young kids, you definitely don’t want to end up holding them all day long while you’re treading water.
Are there alligators and snakes in the springs?
There are absolutely alligators in the springs. Snakes too. You are less likely to see both snakes and alligators in designated swimming areas.
If you’re paddling or floating down a run, it’s best to keep an eye out for them. Be aware of your surroundings and give the animals space, if you see them. Chances are, they are more afraid of you than you are of them.
There are times when the spring will close due to alligator activity. If you happen to see an alligator in the swimming area, get out of the water and notify someone.
Where am I most likely to see manatees?
When the water temperature of the rivers surrounding the springs drop, manatees head to the springs to stay warm. Manatees are very curious and have been known to go near swimmers and paddlers. They are completely harmless and friendly animals.
Crystal River, the Chaz, and Blue Spring State Park are all well-known for the manatee population. Of course, there are plenty of other places to spot these adorable creatures as well. Check out our article on the 12 Best Places to See Manatees to get the full scoop!
Can you swim with manatees?
In most places, swimming with manatees is not permitted. However, it is allowed in Citrus County- Homosassa Springs and Crystal River. If you visit in the summer, your best bet for swimming with manatees is to visit Crystal River. To swim with the manatees, you’ll need a boat tour.
It is against the law to touch or harass manatees. If one comes near you, keep your hands out of the water and allow them to pass.
If you paddle towards a manatee, to not park your vessel directly above the manatees as they need to come up to the surface to breathe.
What is the water temperature?
The springs have a constant temperature of about 72 degrees year round. It’ll definitely take your breath away, at first, but on a hot day it’s really refreshing. Once you get acclimated to the water temperature, you’ll be fine.
On a cooler day, you may not even notice the chilly water because the outside temperature and water temperature are similar.
Are the springs pet-friendly?
Our lab loves swimming, so we totally get wanting to bring your pups to the springs. In fact, every time we’re at the springs one of us says, “Man, LB would love this place!” That being said, dogs are not allowed at most springs. Dogs are a tasty treat for alligators, so it’s best to keep them out of the springs. Bummer, I know.
That being said, you could possibly find a spot along one of the nearby rivers for your pup to swim.
Which springs have camping and cabins?
Many of the Florida Sate Parks with springs have campgrounds. You’ll also find fantastic campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest (home of 5 springs). Otter Springs, Fanning Springs, and Blue Spring State Park all have cabins available for rent.
What should I take to the springs?
Sunscreen, a towel and a bathing suit are always a good start. We also pack a picnic lunch, snacks, plenty of water, bug spray, and floats. We also usually bring along a paddleboard. We actually have a whole list of our Florida Spring Essentials.
Are the springs crowded?
The springs can get absolutely nuts during the summer. People wait in their cars parks for 2+ hours to get in. Almost all of the parks will close once they reach capacity. Some of the parks close for the day whereas others will re-open in the afternoon once people start to leave. It’s best to ask a park employee what their policy is.
Your best bet for getting into the parks is getting their early or visiting in the afternoon. Weekdays also tend to be less crowded. Remember, the water temperature remains the same year-round which essentially means you can swim in the springs year round.
Many of the crowds tend to congregate around shallow areas and the designated swimming area. If you float, wade, paddle, or swim away from these areas, you’ll notice the crowds start to thin out.
Ginnie Springs is privately owned and does not close when it gets crowded. If you find that all of the nearby springs are at capacity, you could always get into Ginnie- just know that it’ll be crowded.
Bonus: Our Favorite Springs
We’re often asked which springs are our favorite. Jeez, this is like asking a parent which kids is their favorite. We haven’t visited a spring that we didn’t like. They are all gorgeous and have qualities that make them unique.
Blue Spring State Park will always hold a special place in my heart as it is the first springs we visited with the kids. They also have a spring run that you can float down, which is an added bonus.
Gilchrist Blue Spring is a great spot to paddle. Alexander Springs is an easy one to visit with kids, which is a bonus for us.
DeLeon is unique in the fact that they have a pancake house on site where you make your own pancakes, which is pretty cool.
Silver Springs is one of Florida’s original theme parks so it’s very touristy, but we really enjoyed the boat tour.
I honestly, can’t pick just one.
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