Florida Natural Springs

Natural Springs in Florida

Florida’s Natural Springs

There are over 700 natural springs in Florida. No other area on earth has this many natural springs. That is over 800+ billion gallons of water we’re talking about. The water travels through underground limestone-covered caves and crevices. This aquifer is purified by its travel through limestone. The addition of any rainwater intensifies the pressure that the aquifer is already under. The water will then be pushed through any opening between the underground water and the earth. This is how natural springs are formed. The effect of limestone, depth of water, and the blue sky are collectively responsible for the blue waters in Florida springs.

All springs in Florida are classified by “Magnitude”. Magnitude represents the amount of flow or discharge of the water. A first-magnitude spring means the flow is at least 100 cubic feet per second or over 64 million gallons per day. There are 33 first magnitude springs in Florida.

Visit the springs that brought Ponce De Leon to Florida in search of the Fountain of Youth. We can’t guarantee a younger version of yourself. But, a memorable day feeling refreshed is on the docket for sure. Alongside the swimming and tubing in the springs, there are many other activities available. Visitors can choose from snorkeling, kayaking, or taking a magical glass-bottom boat tour. The followings are our top pics for Springs in Florida:

Rainbow Springs – Dunnellon, FL

Rainbow Springs is Known as the most beautiful spring among the top 33 first-magnitude springs in Florida. The Rainbow Springs were previously known as the Blue Spring. The Spring is the major attraction point in the Rainbow Springs State Park. In addition to the Spring, the Park offers a vast selection of outdoor activities. There are canoe and kayak rentals available in the Guest Service Area. Rainbow Springs is located around 7 miles north of the City of Dunnellon in Marion County.

Rainbow Springs: 19158 SW 81st Place Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432
Crystal River – Tampa, FL

For us, this is the Spring of the Springs in Florida. Crystal River starts in Kings Bay and travels 7 miles to its drainage basin in the Gulf of Mexico. Along the 7 miles, there is a combination of around 40 springs. Three Sisters Springs and Kings Spring are two of the most popular springs in Crystal River.

Tree Sisters Spring: 601 Three Sisters Springs Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429
Devil’s Den Spring – Williston, Florida near Ocala

The Devil’s Den is a mysterious underground spring. To reach the springs, visitors will descend wooden stairs. Walking down the stairs will bring visitors to a chamber in a large cave. At the end of the stairs an Intense sapphire-blue water surrounds a platform. Standing on the platform in the middle of the cave is an experience like no other. The park at Devil’s Den Spring offers a great selection of amenities for campers and visitors traveling in RVs. There are also cabins and a double-wide trailer available for rent. While visiting the Devil’s Den, stop by the magical Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens Botanical Gardens.

Devil’s Den Spring: 5390 NE 180th Ave, Williston, FL 32696
Ginnie Springs – High Springs, FL

Ginnie Springs is a little over 6 miles north of High Springs, Florida. It is located on I-75 an hour south of the Florida, Georgia borderline. Unlike the majority of other State Parks, this park is privately owned. That means some of the rules like no alcoholic beverages do not apply at Ginnie Springs. The water is amazingly crystal clear and great for water sports. Similar to most springs the watersport includes kayaking, snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding are available. The only major difference between Ginnie Springs and most others remains in the ownership. Although Ginnie Springs is super popular the cost may become prohibitive for some families to visit. In addition to the cost to enter the park, there are fees for most activities. So, the total cost will vary based on the type and number of activities you will choose during your visit. Ginnie Springs is located alongside the Santa Fe River.

Ginnie Springs: 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, Ginnie Springs, FL 32643
Madison Blue Springs – Lee, FL

Madison Blue Springs is 10 miles east of Madison, Florida. The spring is on the west banks of the majestic Withlacoochee River. Madison Blue Springs is a first magnitude spring and one of the newer State Parks in the State. In 2015, the readers of USA today voted Madison Blue Springs as the Best Swimming Hole in the US. There is a good reason for their vote. Hardwood and pine trees are in charge of supplying shade to this tropical oasis. The large 85’ wide spring is a great place for swimming and canoeing. The 25’ depth attracts divers to explore Madison Blue Springs. Canoeing on the Spring and Withlacoochee River may offer a chance to see a manatee or two.

Madison Blue Springs: 8300 FL-6, Lee, Fl 32059
Weeki Wachee Springs – Weeki Wachee, FL

Weeki Wachee Springs Park offers more activities and attractions than your typical State parks. This park is considered to be the oldest roadside attraction in the State. The aquarium with live mermaids has been entertaining visitors since 1947. The combinations of natural springs and attractions created by man are nothing short of magic. To make this even more spectacular, add the Buccaneer Bay Waterpark to the mix. Weeki Wachee Springs is a true destination to have unlimited fun for the entire family.

Weeki Wachee Springs: 6131 Commercial Way, Wikee Wachee, FL 34606