Orlando, Florida is often known as the theme park capital of the world. But many people don’t realize that it is also home to some of the most beautiful and unique natural springs in the United States. These gorgeous springs offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and provide a relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy. In this blog post, we are going to discuss five natural springs near Orlando that you may not have known were there. From crystal clear waters to lush vegetation, each of these springs has something special to offer. Read on to find out more about the incredible natural springs near Orlando.
1) Wekiwa Springs State Park
Located just 15 miles north of downtown Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a beautiful natural oasis in Central Florida. This stunning park offers crystal clear freshwater springs, abundant wildlife, and plenty of recreational activities.
The centerpiece of Wekiwa Springs State Park is the beautiful Wekiwa Springs. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and take a leisurely dip in the 72-degree water. The area also has several picnic tables and grills for visitors to enjoy.
For nature lovers, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers 13 miles of hiking trails through some of the most pristine and untouched parts of Central Florida. These trails meander through woodlands and open prairies and are home to many species of birds and other wildlife.
In addition to these outdoor activities, the park also has a campground, with over 20 campsites available. There are also opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding in the park.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the springs or a more active adventure into the wilderness, Wekiwa Springs State Park has something for everyone!
2) Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is a spectacular natural spring situated in the St. Johns River, just north of Orlando in Orange City, Florida. It is a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
The main attraction at Blue Spring is the crystal-clear spring that feeds the St. Johns River, offering visitors a magnificent view of the river and its surrounding woodlands. The spring offers crystal-clear visibility of over 100 feet, allowing visitors to witness amazing aquatic life such as manatees, fish, turtles, and other wildlife.
Visitors can take advantage of numerous activities offered by the park including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and snorkeling. There are also plenty of fishing opportunities in the area as well. Picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Blue Spring State Park also offers educational programs such as guided walks and talks about the wildlife in the area. The park also hosts several special events throughout the year such as festivals, lectures, and live entertainment.
If you’re looking for an exciting outdoor adventure near Orlando, then Blue Spring State Park is a great option. With its stunning natural beauty and wide variety of activities and programs, this state park is an ideal spot for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.
3) De Leon Springs State Park
Located just north of De Leon Springs, Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is an incredibly beautiful and unique natural spring. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and a stunning, crystal-clear spring which feeds a large swimming area.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. There are also many hiking trails around the park with spectacular views of the lake and wildlife.
The main attraction is the spring itself, which is home to a large variety of fish, turtles, and other aquatic life. The park also features a delicious restaurant on site called Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House which serves classic breakfast dishes made with griddled cornbread.
In addition to its natural beauty, De Leon Springs State Park has a rich history dating back to the time of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. The park is named after him, and it is said he was looking for the legendary “fountain of youth” when he discovered the spring in 1513. Today visitors can enjoy the beautiful spring and learn about the history of the area.
De Leon Springs State Park is a must-see for nature-lovers visiting the Orlando area. With its crystal-clear waters, plentiful wildlife, and unique history, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.
4) Rainbow Springs State Park
Located just outside of Ocala, Rainbow Springs State Park is one of the most beautiful natural springs in Florida. The main attraction here is the clear, blue-green waters that attract visitors from all over. The park offers several different activities, from swimming to fishing and even cave diving.
The springs are fed by a system of more than 20 subterranean channels that supply water for swimming and snorkeling. There are also two large springs at the park – Headsprings and Kittle Spring – with depths ranging from 15 to 25 feet. The park’s crystal clear waters make it a great place to explore underwater life, including turtles, fish, and various aquatic plants.
Rainbow Springs State Park also features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, as well as a campground with both tent and RV sites. The park’s interpretive center provides educational programs and lectures about the local wildlife and natural resources. For those looking to take a break from the outdoors, there is a café and gift shop onsite.
Visitors of Rainbow Springs State Park can also enjoy the many other nearby attractions such as Silver River State Park and the Appleton Museum of Art. There’s something for everyone here, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.
5) Silver Glen Springs
Located about an hour drive away from Orlando, Silver Glen Springs is a hidden gem that’s worth the trip. The natural beauty of this park is unlike any other in Central Florida, with its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery surrounding the spring.
The springs are part of the Juniper Creek Aquatic Preserve, which is home to many different species of fish, turtles, and other wildlife. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom of the spring, where schools of colorful fish are swimming around. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving too!
The spring also provides a perfect spot for kayaking or canoeing around its shallow waters. There are also plenty of spots for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking on shore.
Silver Glen Springs is a great place to spend a day out in nature. It’s a secluded paradise, with plenty of opportunities to explore and relax. If you’re looking for a unique outdoor adventure, this is the place to be!
Final Words
Orlando is a beautiful city filled with natural wonders, and some of the best places to explore are its many springs. From Wekiwa Springs State Park to Silver Glen Springs, there are plenty of stunning natural areas to explore around the city. Whether you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day or just looking for something beautiful and new, any of these five springs will provide an unforgettable experience. Take the time to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature in Orlando.
F&Q
Q: Are these natural springs safe to visit?
A: Yes, all of the natural springs listed in this article are open to the public and are safe to visit. However, you should always be aware of your surroundings, practice safety measures such as wearing a life jacket when swimming, and follow all posted signs.
Q: Is it possible to swim in these springs?
A: Yes, several of the natural springs listed in this article allow for swimming in designated areas. Be sure to check with each individual spring’s rules and regulations before entering the water.
Q: Are there any other activities available at these springs?
A: Yes, many of the springs offer kayaking, canoeing, hiking trails, fishing, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. Check with each individual spring for more information about the activities offered.
Q: Are there any amenities available at these springs?
A: Yes, some of the springs have concessions, restrooms, picnic tables, and playgrounds. Be sure to check with each individual spring for more information about amenities available.
