Outdoor Activities and Manatee Watching at Blue Spring State Park

Explore Blue Spring State Park, where you can see manatees, enjoy water activities, and hike through lush trails for a day of fun near Orlando.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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$6 per car for entrance. Additional fees for St. Johns River Cruises and equipment rentals.
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Florida, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is known for its clear blue spring waters and serves as a designated manatee refuge. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, tubing, and fishing in the park's picturesque setting. In the winter months, hundreds of manatees make the spring their home, providing a unique wildlife experience. The park's wooden boardwalks and hiking trails offer a chance to explore the lush landscape while spotting various wildlife, including squirrels, turtles, and birds. With convenient parking, restrooms, and a Camp Store for equipment rentals, Blue Spring State Park is a must-visit for a memorable day outdoors.

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Itinerary

Arrive at Blue Spring State Park: Park in the first or second parking lot, with restrooms available at both locations.
Explore the Boardwalks: Walk along the wooden pathways to enjoy views of the spring and spot wildlife.
Visit the Camp Store: Rent kayaks, tubes, or snorkel gear, or grab a snack.
Choose Your Activity: Kayak, snorkel, or tube in the designated areas. Follow the boardwalk to the swimming area for tubing and snorkeling.
Picnic and Relax: Enjoy a meal at the picnic areas or pavilions. Be cautious of alligator warnings and avoid swimming in restricted areas.
Take the St. Johns River Cruise: Join the guided boat tour for a closer look at the river and its surroundings (optional, requires additional fee).

Location

Blue Spring State Park, Florida

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Packing List

Swimsuit and towel
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Comfortable walking shoes
Water bottle
Camera for photos
Light snacks or picnic lunch

4.8 ● Google reviews

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!

Incredibly beautiful and peaceful area. You can really hear yourself think out here and take a breath of fresh air! Lots of shade, restrooms, gift shops, snacks, and quick food.. you can kayak, paddleboard, canoe.. the rentals are currently closed cause of the storm, but what an awesome place to explore. Tons of parking - though I will say, we were here during a low time with almost nothing to do. They have grills in the shade, and it's a wonderful place to just chill and enjoy life. Highly recommend!

I will be the first to admit, I’m not much of a nature girl. However, manatees are my favorite animals. They are so cute! Anyway, if you wanna go kayaking with manatees, this is an awesome place to do it! Pro tip:go early- not much shade and at the time if this post you are not allowed to swim due to renovation! The park staff were really nice and informative though.

It's somewhat rustic but naturally beautiful park! The RV spots are all private and quiet. Dump station only. Going back after the Blue Spring entrance renovation is complete.

This place is always beautiful. It's definitely one of my favorite places. While swimming is currently off-limits, it's still a great place to visit for a great chance to see a lot of wildlife. We were lucky to catch some manatees during our most recent visit which isn't very common this time of year.

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