If you know geography, you know the most underappreciated area of the United States is Florida. It is a home to more than 250 of the most exquisite natural springs you have ever seen. It is also one of the world’s greatest collections of freshwater springs. Natural springs are abundant in Florida due to its distinctive geology, making them ideal for anyone looking for things to do. You can swim, dive, kayak, float, view manatees, and do more in these best springs in Florida. To those searching for the best springs in Florida for swimming, a wide selection offers visitors the chance to relax in warm, clean spring water, often around 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Now, here is a list of Florida’s top natural springs for your visit. These spots let you enjoy their atmosphere during the spring or summer months.
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park: One of The Best Springs In Florida
Among the best springs in Florida for water activities, you can first consider the Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park. Here, there’s a lot of space for tourists. So naturally, even with other visitors around, you can connect to nature in private spots. There are many deeper spots here, and they are good to explore if you can freedive. Additionally, Ginnie Springs is close by. So, you can visit both in a short period of time. Gilchrist Blue Springs offers its own campgrounds.
Gilchrist Blue Springs’ wide woodland environment is great for hiking and wildlife viewing. It is another one of its main attractions. Experts always advise making extra time to visit here. You can easily convert your visit into a full-day trip. You can spend your swimming time here in any way you want.
Being the best springs in Florida, Gilchrist Blue Springs offer stunning natural beauty. Mentioning the crystal-clear waters and a variety of activities present here is also worth it.
Rock Springs
One of Florida’s greatest natural springs, in many people’s opinion, is Rock Springs. This spring is situated in Kelly Park in Orange County. Kelly Park is a bit out of the way in some ways. But it is easily worth the whole trip. Most natural springs in Florida to swim are relaxing. These popular spots let you enjoy replenishing cool water.
Travellers would suggest hiking for a short while. After that, you can try jumping on an innertube and floating back to the park’s first point. Understand that this park is surrounded by spring water. Also present in this park are some unique nature trails.
The best natural springs in Florida are known for their pristine water quality. You can’t ignore the abundant wildlife around it that is perfect for nature seekers.
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring
The most unusual spring on this list is Devil’s Den. It is an underground spring tucked away in a 120-foot cavern with fossil beds, stalactites, and extremely immaculate diving conditions.
Although it is great for divers, anyone can go snorkeling to view the fish at Williston, Florida. Since this privately owned spring serves as a scuba diving training facility, swimming in general is prohibited.
Shower facilities, camp spots, RV parks, some gift stores, scuba diving rental points, picnic areas, and more are available in this spring spot. While hot springs in Florida are less well-known, the state is largely known for its freshwater springs.
Crystal River
For the sole reason that it’s one of the few spots in Florida where swimming with manatees is permitted, Crystal River is one of the best springs in Florida. Don’t miss joining a manatee-swimming tour here. They take you to some of the beautiful spots that open doors to the enjoyment of documenting manatees.
If relaxing near manatees is one activity you’ve planned to do, go to this spot between November and April. You can also go between December and February. This time only suits you if you like to see manatees congregate in the warm springs. They do this to avoid the cooler water during this time.
If you are looking for the best springs to visit in Florida, this Crystal River caters to diverse interests. They range from manatee spots at Crystal River to thrilling diving in Devil’s Den.
Royal Springs
Royal Springs is the perfect swimming spot for diving and jumping. It is attractive for people who like true adventure. This spring is an off-the-beaten-path wonder. It descends a breathtaking deep spring along the Suwannee River south of Live Oak, Florida.
If you enjoy looking at swimmers in water, there are walkways to some observation points. You also have a diving platform here, built just over the sea. It’s undoubtedly enjoyable to visit. On top of that, the pleasing atmosphere is a pleasant diversion from some of the densely occupied springs.
You have a boat ramp leading to the river here. There are also lots of picnic tables, barbecue events, and portable restrooms. The things to do in Silver Springs Florida, include glass-bottom boat tours and kayaking, but you can also enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing in a lush state park setting.
Rainbow Springs
Rainbow Springs is, in many people’s opinion, the best location to rent a clear kayak trip if you enjoy observing wildlife but would rather stay dry. The best springs in Central Florida for swimming include Blue Spring State Park, Rock Springs, and Wekiwa Springs. All these spots offer spaces for swimming and water activities.
With several offshoots into charming mangroves, Rainbow Springs houses a river area that is nice for kayaking. Numerous birds and other wildlife can be observed from the kayak, along with little fish living below.
Some people go on a clear-bottom kayak trip here. But if you’re looking for special stuff, consider going on a clear-bottom kayak glow tour at night. At this spot, you can go for concessions, picnic spots, and camping. Hiking and even waterfall viewing are available at Rainbow Springs.
The crystal clear springs in Florida offer breathtaking visibility and serene natural surroundings, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s natural springs show you a touch of unmatched nature. People can enjoy adventure and tranquillity in these places in different ways. It doesn’t matter if you want to dive or go kayaking in these spots. You can do everything in these best springs in Florida, like unique wildlife encounters and thrilling water sports. So, make sure to experience at least a few of these great springs on your next visit to Florida for memories that freshen your body and soul.
