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Florida’s Top 5 Kid Friendly Natural Springs (2023 Guide)

Florida Life

Florida is renowned for its stunning natural springs, which offer refreshing escapes and breathtaking beauty. Here are 5 of the best natural springs to visit with your children in Florida.

1. Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located in Fort White. Ichetucknee Springs boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for tubing and snorkeling, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife.

Address: 12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038

Hours: Open 8am – Closes 7:45 PM

Phone: (386) 497-4690

Pricing:

  • Tube rental: $5 per day
  • Vehicle entrance fee: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for single-occupant vehicles, $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for 2-8 person vehicles
  • Pedestrians, cyclists, and extra passengers: $2 per person

Ichetucknee Springs is a must-visit destination known for its picturesque beauty and pristine waters. The park offers tubing down the Ichetucknee River, which provides a relaxing and enjoyable experience while surrounded by lush forests and wildlife. Visitors can also swim, snorkel, hike, and picnic in this enchanting setting.

2. Rainbow Springs State Park

With its vibrant hues and a picturesque waterfall, Rainbow Springs near Dunnellon is a must-visit. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and picnicking amidst the enchanting natural surroundings.

Address: 19158 S.W. 81st Place Road 
Dunnellon FL 34432

Hours: 8 am to sunset

Phone: 352-465-8555

Pricing:

  • Park admission: $2 per person
  • Tubing: $20 per person (includes tube rental and shuttle service)
  • Canoe and kayak rentals: Starting from $20 per hour

Rainbow Springs is a true gem with its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and tube in the spring’s refreshing waters. Explore the park’s nature trails, have a picnic, or rent a kayak or canoe to further appreciate the beauty of this spring and its wildlife.

3. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Home to the famous mermaid shows, Weeki Wachee Springs is a magical spot near Spring Hill. Take a refreshing swim, paddleboard down the Weeki Wachee River, or witness the captivating underwater world in the spring.

Address: 6131 Commercial Way 
Weeki Wachee FL 34606

Hours: 9am to 5:30pm

Phone: 352-610-5660

Pricing:

  • Park admission: $13 for adults, $8 for children. Ages 5 and under admitted free.
  • Mermaid show: Included in park admission
  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals: Starting from $20 per hour

Weeki Wachee Springs is famous for its underwater mermaid shows and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The crystal-clear spring is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Enjoy the park’s nature trails, picnic areas, and wildlife encounters, including manatees, turtles, and various bird species.

4. Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs offers multiple spring-fed swimming areas, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and a chance to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Devil’s Eye and Devil’s Ear.

Address: 7300 NE Ginnie Spgs Rd, High Springs, FL 32643

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 8AM – 5PM 

Friday & Saturday 8AM – 7PM 

Sunday 8AM – 6PM

Phone: 386-454-7188

Pricing:

  • Adults “Off-Season” Rate $15.00 
  • Adult “Season” Rate $20.00 
  • Children Ages 5-12 $5.00 
  • Children 4 & Under Free
  • Certified Full Cave Divers or Equivalent $24.00
  • All Other Certified Divers $32.00
  • Camping: Starting from $25 per night (tent sites)
  • Tube rental: $7 per day

Ginnie Springs is a popular destination for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With several springs to explore, visitors can dive, snorkel, swim, or float on inner tubes. The park also offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails, providing a complete outdoor experience.

5. Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring is a winter refuge for manatees, offering visitors a chance to view these gentle giants up close. The park also features swimming, kayaking, and scenic boardwalk trails.

Address: 2100 W. French Ave. 
Orange City FL 32763

Hours: 8 am until sundown

Phone: 386-775-3663

Pricing:

  • Vehicle entrance fee: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for single-occupant vehicles, $4 per vehicle (up to 8 people) for 2-8 person vehicles
  • Boat tour: $14 per adult, $8 per child
  • Scuba diving: $6 per person (certified divers), $8 per person (non-certified divers)

Blue Spring is a designated manatee refuge and offers a unique opportunity to observe these gentle creatures during the winter months. The spring’s clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Take a stroll along the boardwalks to admire the surrounding nature or enjoy a picnic in the park.

Remember to check park websites for any updates on operating hours, activities, and entrance fees before planning your visit. Explore these natural springs in Florida and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sunshine State’s stunning aquatic wonders.