While Central Florida is the theme park capital of the U.S., and people also flock here to visit our many beaches, most people do not realize there are other great things to see and do, such as our natural springs. The springs are an excellent way to keep cool in the summertime because the temperature of the springs never gets above the low 70s in the summer. Florida actually has over 700 springs, most of them in the northern regions, but there are several right here in the Central Florida area, some just an hour from the theme areas.
These refreshing springs may be just the vacation you need, away from the hustle and bustle, and enjoying nature. You can enjoy Florida’s natural beauty by checking out the activities at the springs, such as nature walks, manatee watching, kayaking, tubing, canoeing, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, scuba diving, picnicking, camping, and more.
Here is a listing of the top 10 springs in the area:
Blue Springs State Park – Orange City, FL – manatee refuge, water activities
Silver Springs – Ocala, FL – features glass bottom boat rides, and a water park
Rainbow Springs State Park – Dunnellon, FL – 4th largest spring in FL offers popular water activities
Silver Glen Springs – Ocala National forest, features small caverns and schools of striped bass
Juniper Springs – located between Ocala and Ormond Beach, features camping and trails and hundreds of tiny bubbling springs
Alexander Springs – Ocala, FL – extraordinary clear water that feels like a tropical paradise; offers camping and water activities
Wekiwa Springs – Apopka, FL – features water activities, and 13 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
Rock Springs – Sorrento, FL – ¾ mile tubing run and only $1 admission per person
DeLeon Springs – De Leon Springs, FL – water activities and shady picnic ground; guests can make their own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Restaurant
Salt Springs – Salt Springs, FL – features hiking and camping, along with water activities
Orlando Tourist tip: If you are planning on camping, make a reservation. And, even if you are going just for the day, get there early, the parks fill up quickly, especially on the weekends.
