Outdoor Activities and Manatee Watching at Blue Spring State Park

A beautiful, calm and shady spot to enjoy Florida nature. We saw so many manatees, as well as turtles, alligators, deer and various birds and fish. It was perfectly cool and less busy in the afternoon, a couple hours before sunset when they close the park. They are doing a bunch of construction and improvements in the park and the trails but we were still able to enjoy so much. It'll be even better soon!

Wow just a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere Well worth the entry fee. Well paved road and lots of trees.. Toms of wildlife. Clean bathrooms and plenty of parking. Ean river/lake Lots of view points. Kid friendly Tons of parking Highly recommended

I recently visited Blue Springs State Park and was blown away by its natural beauty! Rating: 5/5. The crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery made for an unforgettable experience. Whether snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking, the springs' clarity is mesmerizing. The park's abundant wildlife is another major draw. During winter months, manatees seek refuge in the warmer waters, making it a unique spot for observation. The diverse bird species and scenic hiking trails add to the park's charm. The facilities are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. To make the most of your visit, arrive early to secure parking and beat the crowds. Bringing snorkeling gear or renting kayaks allows for an up-close exploration of the springs. Overall, Blue Springs State Park exceeded my expectations! Its unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and wildlife viewing makes it a must-visit destination. Highly recommended!

Writing this in December, this is the time to go go go here. There’s manatees and they are everywhere. A portion of the boardwalk is under construction near the headwaters so there’s no access there. Normally, you are able to kayak into the springs, but not at this time of year when the manatees are present. Still it’s a great time to go. There’s barely any wait at all to get in the park sometimes none. Clean restrooms a decent concession stand lots of access and great views. Plus there’s manatees, and baby manatees!!! Do yourself a favor bring a picnic lots of room, etc. you can kill a nice afternoon at this place easily.

The sign said 144 manatees! The spring is a winter home for these big mammals. The spring water is very clear so you see many manatees! Part of the boardwalk was closed during our visit but the lower part was open and we had a nice walk stopping at each overlook to the manatees. There is other wildlife to see as well. The diving anhinga or snake bird were fun to watch. They stayed under water a long time. The park is worth a visit.