Blue Spring State Park: A Florida Gem for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Blue Spring State Park: A Florida Gem for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Blue Spring State Park, located in Orange City, Florida, is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate nature and outdoor activities. Known for its crystal-clear spring waters and as a winter refuge for West Indian manatees, this park offers a range of recreational opportunities. The constant 72-degree spring water attracts swimmers, snorkelers, and paddleboarders, while the surrounding ecosystems provide excellent wildlife viewing.
Adventure Guide to Blue Spring State Park
Manatee Viewing in Winter
- Best Time: Mid-November to March
- What Makes It Special: Blue Spring serves as a manatee sanctuary during colder months, attracting hundreds of these gentle giants seeking warm refuge.
- Key Features: A boardwalk trail runs along the spring, offering prime vantage points without disturbing the animals. Rangers provide educational talks on conservation efforts.
Swimming and Snorkeling in the Spring Run
- Best Time: April to mid-November (closed for manatees in winter)
- What Makes It Special: The crystal-clear waters make for an excellent swimming experience, with visibility reaching several feet. Snorkelers can spot gar, sunfish, and turtles.
- Key Features: The spring has a designated swimming area, but diving or entering the spring vent itself is prohibited. Fins and snorkel gear are recommended for the best experience.
Kayaking and Canoeing Down the St. Johns River
- Best Time: Year-round (morning visits offer calmer waters and better wildlife viewing)
- What Makes It Special: Paddling from Blue Spring offers a chance to see alligators, herons, and otters along the St. Johns River ecosystem.
- Key Features: Kayak and canoe rentals are available near the launch site. Guided tours provide educational insights into the park’s aquatic life.
Local Insights
- Blue Spring was discovered by early settlers in the 1800s and was once a site for steamboat landings.
- The largest spring on the St. Johns River, it pumps over 100 million gallons of water daily.
- Florida’s manatee population has grown significantly due to conservation efforts here.
Visitor Tips
- Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds. Winter visits guarantee manatee sightings.
- What to Bring: Swimsuit, snorkel gear, water shoes, binoculars for birdwatching, and sunscreen.
- Directions: From Orlando, take I-4 east to Exit 114, then follow signs for Blue Spring; about 40 minutes total.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Justin Buzzarda month ago
We visited on a seemingly busy day during the holidays when kids were out of school, as it took close to 30 minutes to get inside. We paid with a card as they were walking down the queue to make it faster.
We were fortunate to get parking close, so not much walking to the water.
We went to see some manatees which we did. None got too close as they seemed to gravitate to a warmer portion of the water.
There is plenty of other wildlife to see with birds and fish. We didn't see any gators or turtles.
The Thurman House was nice and we visited the gift shop.
There were also lines for the bathroom as the crowds were bigger, but overall, it was a nice experience.
For a large family, the price for the boat ride on the river was out of our range as it would have been well over $100 for the short boat trip.
There are picnic tables, and it seems you can grill there as well.
There is also a kids' play area, but the kids didn't use it on this trip.
Rhonda Astora week ago
Scored a night in the campground and so excited we did! Easy checkin and most sites seem to have adequate privacy from each other. Standard picnic tables and fire rings. Very nice bath house with showers and washer/dryer available. Didn’t know we needed a code for bath house so very thankful another camper shared it with me upon arrival. There is a short paved walking trail from the campground down to the springs. Only 4 manatee hanging around today but we were lucky enough to spot one along with lots of catfish, turtles and gar. The springs and water are beautiful. We visited on a Sunday morning and it wasn’t very crowded at all. Would definitely stay here again!
cpowife93usna month ago
This was an impromptu visit today. Decided to take my mom to go see the manatees while they're still here and it was a beautiful day to go. As we approached the entrance, the line to get in was down the dirt road, then you basically loop around and wait until instructed to move forward to enter. There was a park ranger walking along cars to make the paying process easier, which was pretty convenient. Parking was tricky, but you drive around until you find one. There was some construction going on, but nothing too crazy. We walked along the boardwalk, stopping at each lookout area to catch a glimpse of the manatees. There were lots of them today, 794 that was counted. They have restrooms, gift shop, place to rent under tubes (in the summertime), couple of concession stands. The Thursby House you can tour kayaks to rent and boat tours (best to go on the star park website and make reservations). My mom loved seeing the manatees and all the fish and commented on how clear the water was. It was a very enjoyable day!
Janice Foresta month ago
Beautiful park! Thrilling to see the manatees during our recent visit on New Year’s Day. The fee per car was six dollars, extremely reasonable. Plenty of parking, lines to get in can be long but didn’t take more than 15 minutes. Rest rooms were clean. Nice picnic areas. Can’t wait to return someday to explore more of the park
Paul Marshaleka week ago
Upon arrival, they know the number of manatees swimming in the blue springs waterway. The walking trails are well maintained, and the wildlife is incredible. This is a great day trip. Try to arrive early to avoid waiting in line to enter the park.
