Between Orlando & Jacksonville Is A State Park With Natural Springs & Crystal-Clear Water

Orlando has no shortage of places to cool off on a hot day. However, if you're looking for a chlorine- and salt-free option, consider visiting the bubbling springs and cool waters at the area's first major tourist attraction, Wekiwa Springs State Park. The park's name comes from the Creek language and means "bubbling water." At the park, fans of playing in or on the water can experience one of Florida's most unique natural attractions, artesian springs. 

While states out West are blessed with towering mountains, Florida has over 1,000 springs gushing with fresh water. Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of several Florida state parks where you can not only cool off on a hot summer day in cool water but also feel more in touch with nature. The springs and water support a rich diversity of wildlife, including turtles, birds, deer, and even bears and alligators. You can explore the park's natural environment several ways, including taking a paddling trip, swimming or snorkeling in the natural springs, or exploring well-maintained, family-friendly walking and bike routes. Rental equipment, including bicycles, canoes, and paddleboards, is available for your adventure.

If you're visiting Orlando, Wekiwa Springs is close enough to make an easy day trip, yet far enough away to recharge in nature. It's located north of the city and closer to Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). However, both Disney World and Orlando International Airport (MCO) are less than an hour away. If you're heading toward Daytona Beach or Tampa on Interstate 4, you'll see signs for the park off of exit 94. 

For over a century and a half, Wekiwa Springs has drawn tourists to swim and relax along its second-magnitude spring, which pumps out about 43 million gallons of fresh water daily through a 35-foot crack, forming a large pool for snorkeling and swimming. Swimmers can float and feel where 72-degree water punches its way to the surface from the aquifer. Water depth varies across the swimming area. Even though you may be able to touch the bottom, life jackets are a good idea for little ones as the park does not have lifeguards. 

Although Wekiwa Springs doesn't have glass-bottom boat trips like at beautiful Silver Springs State Park outside of Orlando, you can leisurely spend the morning paddling along the Wekiva River or Rock Springs Run. Swing by the park's boathouse and rent your choice of paddlecraft, with single kayaks starting at $20 per hour. Two-hour guided tours are also an option and start at $65 and include your choice of watercraft (either canoe, paddleboard, or kayak). Don't forget your sunscreen and a hat!

While the springs are the main attraction and the namesake of the park, you'll also find miles of trails leading through the area. The short (under a mile) Wet-to-Dry Trail starts at the spring and takes hikers through the park's floodplain forest along a wide wheelchair- and stroller-friendly boardwalk. If you're looking to get farther away from crowds in the park, take a longer walk along the 5.3-mile-long Volksmarch Trail or the 13.5-mile-long Main Hiking Trail. If you do hike in more remote parts of the park, note that you may encounter a more rarely-sighted bobcat or even a Florida black bear. 

If you're planning to visit Wekiwa Springs on the weekend or during school breaks, it's a good idea to plan your trip in advance. The park has limited capacity and requires visitors to make reservations on the state park's website. You can book your entry date up to 60 days in advance and at the same time as your rental equipment. Even if you've booked your spot, you'll still want to get an early start to find parking (especially on weekends) and beat the lines of visitors. The park opens at 8 a.m. daily and closes at sunset, though you'll have to get out of the water at least 30 minutes beforehand. Entry for the day is a bargain compared to major theme parks and costs just $6 per vehicle for two to eight people. For food on your trip, you'll find a Publix supermarket nearby to grab picnic essentials, or you can also visit The Watering Hole inside the park for a grilled burger, hot dog, or snack.

Visitors traveling to Orlando on a budget or who would like to spend more time closer to nature can stay at one of Wekiwa Springs' 60 developed campsites, which start at $24 per night and have all of the essentials, including plenty of shade, water, power, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Additional charges include tax, a $6.70 reservation fee, and a $7 nightly utility fee for RV camping. Several sites also include sewer hookups. If you are considering camping at the park, book early. 

Orlando even has one of America's best water parks with lagoons and beaches. Compared to visiting the major theme parks, you may get a different feel for Orlando and Central Florida by visiting Wekiwa Springs. If you're looking for more to do in Orlando that's not theme-park related, check out this 3-day itinerary for inspiration and local tips.