8 Must-Visit Florida Springs

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a spring is a natural opening in the ground where water flows directly from the aquifer to the earth’s surface. Springs and their associated rivers have tremendous ecological value and house countless unique Florida plants and animals. The crystal clear waters typically remain around 72 degrees - making them an ideal spot for manatees, alligators, and humans. If you’re on the hunt for some Florida weather relief, check out these eight springs in Florida for a rejuvenating outdoor experience.

Crystal River

If you are a dendrophile (someone obsessed with nature), the Crystal River may be calling your name. It is the largest natural winter refuge for manatees in all of Florida. More than 500 manatees visit these springs every year. The Crystal River is a mix of the Gulf of Mexico and fresh river water, making it a brackish river. When you think of salty water, you may think of cloudy water, but we promise that this is some of the most transparent and blue water you will ever see. With many things to do like kayaking, camping, site-seeing, and hiking, this destination is sure to please the whole family.

Rainbow Springs

Not too far from Crystal River, Rainbow Springs is located near Ocala. With thousands of positive reviews online, these natural springs have many things to offer. The main attraction is the tubing. Although while floating down the river, beware of snakes and alligators. If you are not a Florida local, the first encounter with these animals can be scary, but remember that they are harmless when unprovoked. Overall, the water in every Florida spring is generally cold, so visiting these springs is super refreshing in the hot months, meaning this is a must-visit spot pretty much year-round.

Madison Blue Springs

The Madison Blue Springs State Park is located near the Florida-Georgia border. These springs are best known for their incredible water clarity and camping experience. Diving is extremely popular at this location because the water is more profound than most Florida springs. These springs also have explorable underwater caves. For an honorable mention, drive an hour southwest to find the deepest spring in the world (yes, the world) at Wakulla Springs State Park for some of the best diving you can find in Florida.

Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is a place to have a wild adventure. Ginnie Springs is one of the more popular destinations on the list for adults, especially during the weekends. This versatile spot can be a place to throw a river party or a place to calmly float down the river in a tube or wade in a kayak. Unlike other springs, wildlife tends to stay further away from the populated areas. This can be good if you are fearful of alligators, but they are also just a short paddle away if interested in seeing some Florida wildlife.

Devils Den

Despite its spooky name, this dream destination is a must-see when in Florida. This underground watering hole is a breathtaking tourist attraction located north of Ocala. This is a prehistoric underground spring with fossils discovered millions of years ago. If you aren’t afraid of chilly water, this is a fantastic place to dive and snorkel. With scuba gear ready to rent on-site, all you need is a scuba certification, and you are prepared to go!

Silver Glen Springs

Another Ocala-based spring, Silver Glen, is a truly relaxing experience. Silver Glen is not an overnight camping experience, as only day trips are allowed. You can find all kinds of marine life, birds, and old limestone. To ensure that Silver Glen Springs is family-friendly, alcohol use is not permitted. Sadly, neither are your furry friends. Also, leave your diving gear at home, as diving is not allowed. These springs are somewhere you can swim, canoe, boating, and picnic.

Weeki Wachee

Up the west coast of Florida, this native American land, Weeki Wachee, means “little spring.” Weeki Wachee is filled with history and has the only live mermaid shows, making this a fantastic destination for children and families. Most Florida springs are about 72 degrees, but this one is 74, making a subtle but essential difference, especially for swimming children. Lastly, this spring can get quite deep, so be careful when diving as the current is more potent than usual.

Homosassa Springs

Homosassa Springs is another native American spring meaning “river of fishes.” Besides the usual saltwater and freshwater fish, while in Homosassa, you can find manatees, alligators, deer, bobcats, and otters. These springs are a great place to go kayaking or paddle boarding, as you are almost guaranteed to see some form of wildlife. If the amount of nature doesn’t concern you, this is also a great place to cool off in the water!

Whichever Florida spring you decide to visit, Florida has something to fit your needs. Whether you are having a blast at Ginnie Springs or watching the like mermaid show at Weeki Wachee, the water at all of these Florida springs is nothing like you have ever seen before. If you are traveling with a trailer, ensure your routine maintenance is completed before you go. For all travel necessities, Tropic Trailer is your place to go.