De León Springs State Park

Introduction of De León Springs State Park

In Holmes County, Florida, Ponce de Leon Springs State Recreation Area is a Florida State Park. It can be found in the town of Ponce de Leon. The park was initially acquired on September 4, 1970, using funds from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund. The self-proclaimed purpose of the park is to develop, operate, and maintain the property for outdoor recreation, park, historic, and related purposes, providing ample opportunity for nature appreciation and wildlife viewing.Swimming in the spring and hiking along the park’s nature trails are its main recreational activities. The significance of the park is centred on the Ponce de Leon Spring, which is its most distinguishing feature. The spring was named after Juan Ponce de Leon, the explorer who led the first Spanish expedition to Florida in 1513. According to legend, the entire purpose of Ponce de Leon’s expedition was to find a spring that, according to a Taino Indian legend, would restore youth to those who bathed in its waters.” The legend contributes to the unofficial title “The Fountain of Youth” of Ponce de Leon Springs.

Camping

De León Springs State Park Activities

Boating

If boating is your thing, the state park has plenty of opportunities for you to get out on the water. A 50-minute boat tour of the lake with an eco/history narration of the area and its native wildlife is available. The tour boat can accommodate eight passengers and is handicap accessible.

At Spring Garden Lake, the park also offers boating and canoeing/kayaking. The lake is linked to Lake Woodruff, which is about 10 miles away. Lake Woodruff is approximately 22,000 acres in size and offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Snorkeling and scuba diving lessons are also available in the park for the more daring. The lessons, led by a certified and licenced instructor, will teach you how to safely dive and explore underwater areas.

If you simply want to swim in the lake, you will find a relaxing swimming environment where the water temperature is always around 72 degrees. Because there is no lifeguard on duty, children must be accompanied by an adult when swimming in the lake. All swimmers must stay within the roped-off swim area for their own safety.

Hiking

If you enjoy hiking, the state park has trails such as the four-mile-long Wild Persimmon hiking trail, where you can see local wildlife such as Florida black bears, turkeys, and deer. A half-mile interpretive trail leads through the park, where you can see old growth trees and other native plants.

Location

Parking

Parking is available

Public Transport

Public Transport is not available