Central Florida Waterways are not all lakes and beaches. We also have some of the most magnificent natural springs here as well. One of these springs is located right off I-4 in Orange City.
Blue Spring is the largest spring on the St. Johns River, which is the longest river in the State of Florida, spanning 310 miles. The Spring is also a designated Manatee Refuge and if you visit in the winter you will see why. There’s been a record 311 manatees in the park!
There are a variety of activities to do at Blue Spring State Park. If you’re just planning a day trip to the park you can enjoy swimming, hiking the trails, canoeing, scuba diving, and picnicing. Overnight accommodations include campsites ($24) and air-conditioned cabins ($95).
During the winter months (November 15th to march 1st) water activities are off-limits as to not disturb the West Indian Manatees. However, during the summer, the water can be a very inviting place indeed, with a constant temperature of 73 degrees.
The walk to the spring head, or boil (the water looks as if it is boiling out of the ground even though it is extremely cool) is beautiful. Most of the walkways take you through oak hammocks and down the side of the spring run.
This is a place where you can experience the “real Florida”.
Blue Spring State park is located at 2100 West French Avenue, Orange City, Florida and is open from 8 a.m. to sundown 365 days a year. The big tip that this post will provide you is…go early! The park will fill to capacity and once all of the parking spaces are filled the park ranger will turn guests away. Admission into the park is $6 for a vehicle that has 2 to 8 occupants. Single occupant vehicles will pay $4. Each additional passenger is $2. This is a fantastic and inexpensive place to explore on your next vacation to Central Florida.
Until Next Time,
P.S. Have you been to Blue Spring State Park? What did you do and see? Can you name any of the other natural springs here in Central Florida?
It’s beautiful here! Manatees are so amazing to see in person!
We even took our two dogs with us. The whole family had a wonderful time!