It’s summer in Florida, so swimming, sailing, and soaking up the rays are on the agenda.
One of the best aspects of Florida is the abundance of lakes, rivers, and springs for outdoor recreation. There are plenty of options in the Florida area for a peaceful river for an afternoon of sunbathing and relaxation, or a refreshing watering hole where you can take a dip.
Springs in Florida
Are you looking for a freshwater spring to visit this summer? You are fortunate. Over 1,000 freshwater springs can be found in North Florida. Here are a few to consider:
Rum Island Springs
Rum Island Park in Columbia County provides easy access to the dazzling, clear freshwater of Rum Island Springs, one of the Santa Fe River’s many springs. The park is open all year and offers activities such as swimming, canoeing, boating, snorkeling, fishing, and more. This family-friendly park also has picnic tables and public restrooms.
Gilchrist Blue Springs
The Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park in High Springs offers family fun and pristine waters. The park contains a number of natural springs, including the Gilchrist Blue Springs, which produces an average of 44 million gallons of water per day and has exceptional water clarity. You can also have fun at the park’s other scenic springs, such as Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring, and Johnson Spring.
Poe Springs
Poe Springs Park, which encompasses approximately 202 acres of scenic woodlands and rolling fields, includes Poe Springs, Alachua County’s largest spring. On a daily basis, it pumps about 45 million gallons of fresh, cool water, and your family can go swimming, kayaking, or tubing. There are also nature trails, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and a playground in the park.
Ichetucknee Springs
At Ichetucknee Springs State Park, you can float in a tube on the crystalline waters of the spring-fed Ichetucknee River, relax beneath lush tree canopies, and see birds, turtles, and other wildlife. Blue Hole Spring is the largest of several springs in the park.
