5 Natural Springs Near Orlando - Updated 2024 Guide
Central Florida is home to some of the most beautiful natural springs, offering crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to swim, snorkel, kayak, or simply relax in nature, these natural springs near Orlando provide the perfect escape. Here's an in-depth look at five of the best springs you can visit.
If you want to find more springs in Florida, check out our full state MAP.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
image courtesy of @haulsandhighways
Getting to Wekiwa Springs State Park
Distance from Orlando: Approximately 20 miles
Route: Take I-4 W to FL-434 W to Wekiwa Springs Road
The Natural Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring a crystal-clear spring that pumps out 42 million gallons of water daily. The spring maintains a refreshing temperature of 72°F year-round, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding lush landscape provides a picturesque setting, perfect for a day of relaxation and outdoor activities.
The park also offers a variety of water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing along the Wekiva River. The river is teeming with wildlife, including turtles, fish, and birds, providing an immersive nature experience. Hiking and biking trails wind through the park, offering a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna.
Amenities and Facilities at Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a nature center. The park also has camping facilities, including both tent and RV sites, making it perfect for an extended stay. Rental equipment for kayaking and canoeing is available on-site.
image courtesy of @happyandi
Operating Hours and Cost to Enter Wekiwa Springs:
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - Sundown, 365 days a year
Cost to Enter: $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists
Best Times to Visit Wekiwa Springs
The best time to visit Wekiwa Springs is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the park is less crowded. Early mornings and weekdays offer a quieter experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the serene environment.
image courtesy of @happyandi
History of Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs has been a popular recreation area for centuries, first enjoyed by the Timucuan Indians and later by European settlers. The park was established in 1969 and has since been preserved as a natural haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blue Spring State Park
image courtesy of @sharker.parker
Getting to Blue Spring State Park
Distance from Orlando: Approximately 30 miles
Route: Take I-4 E to exit 114, then follow FL-472 E and US-17 N/US-92 E to the park
The Natural Springs
Blue Spring State Park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and as a winter refuge for West Indian manatees. The spring remains at a constant 72°F, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The spring run flows into the St. Johns River, providing additional opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
During the winter months, hundreds of manatees gather in the spring, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience. The clear waters make it easy to see these gentle giants up close, and the park provides viewing platforms for visitors.
image courtesy of @floridaphotoart
Amenities and Facilities at Blue Spring
The park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. It also offers rental facilities for kayaks and canoes. There are restrooms, changing areas, and a camp store on-site. Camping facilities include tent sites and cabins.
Operating Hours and Cost to Enter Blue Spring
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - Sundown, 365 days a year
Cost to Enter: $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists
image courtesy of @sharker.parker
Best Times to Visit Blue Spring
The best time to visit Blue Spring is during the winter months (November to March) when manatees are present. Spring and fall also offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Early mornings are ideal for a more peaceful experience.
image courtesy of @thedougiefresh
History of Blue Spring
Blue Spring has been an important site for centuries, used by Native Americans for its fresh water and abundant wildlife. In the 19th century, it was a popular location for steamboats traveling the St. Johns River. The state park was established in 1972 to protect the spring and its surrounding habitat.
Rock Springs at Kelly Park
image courtesy of @getupandgokayaking
Getting to Rock Springs at Kelly Park
Distance from Orlando: Approximately 25 miles
Route: Take I-4 W to FL-429 N to W Kelly Park Road
The Natural Springs
Rock Springs at Kelly Park offers a unique and exhilarating tubing experience. The free-flowing spring emerges from a rocky outcrop, creating a swift current perfect for a lazy float down the river. The water temperature remains a cool 68°F year-round, providing a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.
The spring-fed run is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife, making it a scenic journey. Swimmers can enjoy the clear, shallow waters, while tubers can float along the gentle currents. The park also offers a sandy beach area for sunbathing and relaxing.
image courtesy of @happyisthewanderer
Amenities and Facilities at Rock Springs
Kelly Park provides ample picnic areas with pavilions, a playground, and hiking trails. Tubes can be rented from vendors outside the park. There are also restrooms, changing areas, and a camp store on-site. Camping facilities include tent and RV sites.
Operating Hours and Cost to Enter Rock Springs
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM in summer; 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM in winter
Cost to Enter: $3 per vehicle (1-2 people), $5 per vehicle (3-8 people), $1 per additional person
image courtesy of @happyisthewanderer
Best Times to Visit Rock Springs
The best time to visit Rock Springs is during the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate, and crowds are lighter. Weekdays and early mornings are ideal for a quieter experience, especially for tubing.
History of Rock Springs
Rock Springs has been a natural attraction for centuries, first enjoyed by Native American tribes and later by European settlers. The park was established in the 1920s and has since been a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
De Leon Springs State Park
image courtesy of @maxxcinema
Getting to De Leon Springs State Park
Distance from Orlando: Approximately 50 miles
Route: Take I-4 E to exit 118, then follow FL-44 W to the park
The Natural Springs
De Leon Springs State Park is a historic site known for its refreshing spring waters and rich cultural heritage. The spring maintains a constant 72°F and feeds into a large swimming area surrounded by lush greenery. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
The park is also home to the Old Sugar Mill, a popular restaurant where guests can cook their own pancakes at the table. The scenic beauty and unique attractions make De Leon Springs a favorite destination for families and history enthusiasts.
image courtesy of @sewvicious
Amenities and Facilities at De Leon Springs
The park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. There is also a boat ramp for access to the spring run and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. The Old Sugar Mill restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Restrooms, changing areas, and a camp store are available on-site.
Operating Hours and Cost to Enter De Leon Springs
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - Sundown, 365 days a year
Cost to Enter: $6 per vehicle (2-8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists
image courtesy of @sewvicious
Best Times to Visit De Leon Springs
The best time to visit De Leon Springs is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, and the park is less crowded. Early mornings and weekdays provide a quieter experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the park's natural beauty and historical attractions.
History of De Leon Springs
De Leon Springs has a rich history, dating back to the early Native American tribes who inhabited the area. In the 19th century, it became a popular health resort, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the spring waters. The state park was established in 1982 to preserve the natural and historical significance of the site.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area
image courtesy of @dragonmonkey315
Getting to Juniper Springs Recreation Area
Distance from Orlando: Approximately 70 miles
Route:
Take I-4 E
Merge onto FL-40 E
Continue to the park
The Natural Springs at Juniper Springs
Juniper Springs is renowned for its pristine waters, consistently at 72°F year-round. The main spring is a large, clear swimming area surrounded by subtropical forest, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The scenic beauty is enhanced by the presence of diverse wildlife, including turtles, fish, and a variety of bird species. The spring's constant flow provides a refreshing and invigorating experience, perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
In addition to swimming, Juniper Springs offers one of the most popular kayaking routes in Florida. The Juniper Run is a 7-mile journey through a lush, jungle-like environment, providing paddlers with a unique and immersive nature experience. The clear, winding stream and the surrounding forest create a serene and picturesque backdrop, ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
image courtesy of @annette_love_for
Amenities and Facilities at Juniper Springs
Juniper Springs Recreation Area is well-equipped with amenities to enhance your visit. It features picnic areas, a campground, and hiking trails. The park also provides rental facilities for kayaks and canoes, ensuring you have everything you need for a day on the water. Restrooms, changing areas, and a camp store are available on-site. The campground includes both tent and RV sites, making it ideal for extended stays.
Operating Hours and Cost to Enter Juniper Springs
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Cost to Enter: $6 per person
image courtesy of @_seanmullins
Best Times to Visit Juniper Springs
The best time to visit Juniper Springs is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild, and the park is less crowded. These seasons offer perfect conditions for swimming, hiking, and kayaking. Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the serene environment.
History of Juniper Springs
Juniper Springs has a rich history dating back thousands of years, initially used by Native American tribes for its clear, fresh water. In the early 20th century, the Civilian Conservation Corps developed the area into a recreational site, building many of the structures still in use today. The springs have since been preserved as part of the Ocala National Forest, offering visitors a glimpse into Florida's natural and cultural heritage.
Best Overall: Wekiwa Springs State Park
image courtesy of @guidedbydestiny
Why Wekiwa Springs is the Best: Wekiwa Springs State Park stands out as the best natural spring near Orlando due to its combination of accessibility, variety of activities, and natural beauty. Located just 20 miles from Orlando, it offers easy access for a quick getaway. The park features a crystal-clear spring that maintains a refreshing 72°F year-round, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Additionally, it provides a wide range of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the Wekiva River.
The park's extensive amenities, such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and camping facilities, make it suitable for both day trips and extended stays. The diversity of outdoor activities ensures there is something for everyone, from water sports enthusiasts to nature lovers. Its historical significance and well-preserved natural environment add to its charm, making Wekiwa Springs State Park the top choice among the natural springs near Orlando.
Runner-ups:
Blue Spring State Park: Known for manatee viewing and clear waters.
Rock Springs at Kelly Park: Offers a unique tubing experience.
De Leon Springs State Park: Features a historic site with a unique pancake restaurant.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area: Offers pristine waters and a scenic kayaking route in Ocala National Forest.
Each of these springs has its unique attractions and benefits, but Wekiwa Springs State Park combines the best elements to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for visitors.
