No matter if you're an expert scuba diver or snorkeler, or simply enjoy swimming in a cool spring pool, Florida offers an impressive array of natural springs for exploration.
Florida boasts 800 billion gallons of underground water that
bubble up into over 700 springs throughout the state. With temperatures never
rising above 72 degrees Fahrenheit, these swimming holes offer year-round
refreshing dips!
1. Devil’s Den
Devil's Den is an ancient cave with an underground spring.
The water here is crystal clear and maintains a steady 72 degree temperature
year-round.
This popular Florida tourist spot can get busy, so for
snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiasts, try visiting during the winter months.
The spring is a karst window - an underground river formed
when the earth caved in over it. For years, tourists have been fascinated by
this natural marvel!
Devil's Den stands out among other Florida springs due to
its accessible entrance that even non-certified divers can explore.
Adventurers should definitely check this out, especially
those new to snorkeling or scuba diving. Plus, you'll get to see fossils and
artifacts dating back thousands of years! Plus, if you don't have your own
gear, renting masks, snorkels and fins is easy - just bring cash!
2. Weeki Wachee
Are you searching for an idyllic Florida spring? Look no
further than Weeki Wachee. Situated in central Florida, this popular
destination is renowned for its mermaid shows and spring-fed water park, as
well as its crystal clear blue river.
The Weeki Wachee River is an idyllic kayaking and
paddleboarding haven, where you can view Florida wildlife while swimming in
Buccaneer Bay's crystal-clear waters. Plus, why not treat yourself to a guided
river boat cruise?
It's essential to remember that the natural environment at
Weeki Wachee is under threat. Unfortunately, many people are dismayed at how
overdeveloped this natural spring has become.
It is also worth mentioning that the spring itself is one of
the deepest natural underwater cave systems in America - part of an expansive
global cave system!
3. Blue Springs State Park
Florida's natural springs have long attracted travelers from
around the country to visit. In fact, they were once considered to be the top
tourist attraction in the state.
Blue Springs State Park in central Florida is an incredible
natural spring, close to Orlando and Daytona Beach. It's also a designated
manatee refuge, giving visitors the opportunity to observe these magnificent
creatures up close.
Hike along the quarter-mile spring run or rent tubes and
explore the area in a kayak. Alternatively, take a wildlife boat tour to spot
birds and other Florida wildlife.
Explore miles of trails in Florida, from the 3.6-mile Pine
Island Trail to a nature trail that winds through pine flatwoods and
marshlands. Don't miss out on visiting Thursby House - an iconic museum that
provides insight into life in Florida over 150 years ago.
4. Alexander Springs
Alexander Springs is one of Florida's most stunning natural
springs located within Ocala National Forest. Surrounded by crystal-clear
turquoise waters and set against a hardwood swamp forest backdrop, you will
feel completely connected to nature here.
First Magnitude Springs' expansive swimming pool is one of
the largest in the state and perfect for families with kids of all ages. The
crystal clear water keeps temperatures at 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
On the southwest edge of the pool, a broad sand beach forms
its edge and empties into Alexander Springs Creek which runs approximately 10
river miles until it meets St. Johns River.
The crystal-clear spring run of the creek attracts an array
of wildlife including alligators, great herons, river otters and turtles. Kayak
or canoe down this majestic stretch to see these magnificent creatures up
close! Or hike along Timucuan Trail from the beach area to two observation
platforms along the creek.
