Everything You Need to Know about Visiting Florida Springs

With more than 1000 springs scattered across Florida, there’s a spring for every kind of adventure. Some are safe winter homes for manatees, others are famous for snorkeling, and still others are hubs for boating and family fun, and some are all of the above. One thing’s for sure—Florida’s springs have always been a gathering place. From a life-sustaining water source for early Floridians to the recreational hotspots they are today, these springs are both beautiful and essential.

Having grown up within 30 minutes of four different springs, my love for these natural wonders started early. Now, I get to pass that on to my kids, who spend hours at the springs each week. It’s a gift I don’t take for granted, and it’s a big reason why I care so much about preserving these places for future generations.

If you’re ready to enjoy Florida’s springs while keeping them healthy and thriving, keep reading for tips on how to make your visit a responsible one.

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Table of Contents

• Know Before You Go: Florida Style
• Protecting Florida’s Wildlife and Habitats
• Protecting Florida’s Water Quality
• Respect Fellow Outdoor Enthusiasts
• The Bigger Picture: Advocacy and Conservation for Florida Springs
• Best Springs in Central Florida

Know Before You Go: Florida Style

Know the Rules

Each Florida spring has its own unique set of rules, so it’s important to know what’s expected before you arrive. Just because you’ve visited one spring doesn’t mean you’ll be familiar with another—even within the same park system! Some are state parks, others are in national forests, and a few are privately managed, with varying guidelines and restrictions. Look up the specific rules for each spot you plan to visit, and always check for any seasonal regulations, especially in manatee areas.

Know the Crowds

Florida springs are a huge draw, so crowds can vary depending on the season. Summer is the busiest time for many springs, thanks to the refreshing 72°F water temps, but winter can get busy too in spots that serve as manatee sanctuaries. To avoid the crowds, plan off-season or mid-week visits. For high-season trips, getting there early in the morning is important. Some springs, like Alexander Springs, even have vehicle reservations between Memorial Day and Labor Day to keep crowds manageable—check these ahead of time so you don’t miss out!

Know How to Pack Smart

Overpacking is an easy way to wear yourself out before you even get to the springs. To keep things light, bring only what you truly need for the day. If you need more gear, a portable cart with off-road-friendly wheels can make it easier to transport it without exhausting yourself. Set up a spot before you unload everything, and if you plan on hiking, paddling, or both, leave non-essentials locked in your vehicle until you need them.

• Hiking Gear: I’ve written a detailed blog post on hiking gear to make sure you have everything you need without overdoing it. Check it out if you’re new to packing for the trails.
• Paddleboarding Gear: The same goes for paddleboarding! I have a full guide on gear essentials that’s perfect for anyone who wants to hit the water without the fuss.

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Leaving no trace isn’t just a good practice—it’s crucial for Florida springs. Even seemingly harmless actions like tossing food scraps or pouring out drinks, can attract wildlife, including bears and other carnivores. We definitely don’t want these animals associating people with food, as it can lead to dangerous interactions and habituate them to human presence. Keeping wildlife wild is the safest option for both people and animals, and following these principles helps keep our springs healthy and beautiful for everyone.

Protecting Florida’s Wildlife and Habitats

Keep a Respectful Distance from Wildlife

Every encounter with wildlife, from manatees gliding in the springs to alligators sunning by the water, is a reminder of Florida’s wild beauty. But remember—keeping a respectful distance keeps both you and them safe. Here’s a general rule:

• Stay 75 feet from most wildlife: This includes birds, deer, manatees, and other animals you might spot on the trails or water.
• Stay 300 feet from predators: For larger wildlife like bears, coyotes, and alligators, keep even more space.

Giving them plenty of room keeps them from feeling threatened and minimizes the chance of a dangerous encounter. Distance can be hard to judge when you are out on the water, so if you find yourself getting too close, gently paddle away.

Don’t Touch or Feed the Wildlife

Like I mentioned in the Leave No Trace section, it’s important not to leave food scraps or pour out drinks in the wild. Any trace of food can attract animals, encouraging them to associate humans with easy meals—which can quickly lead to dangerous encounters for both people and wildlife. Feeding or touching wildlife disrupts their natural behavior and can harm their health. Let’s keep our wildlife wild!

Stay on Designated Trails and Waterways

Florida springs and their surrounding areas are fragile ecosystems filled with unique plant life, like underwater grasses and vegetation that improve water quality and provide food for wildlife. Stick to the designated trails and waterways to protect these habitats. Stepping off-trail can damage the plants and disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Plus, staying on the trail keeps you out of wildlife territory, protecting both you and them.

Know the Local Wildlife

Florida is home to a variety of wildlife—from cute squirrels and majestic herons to large predators like black bears and alligators. In general:

• Where there are woods, there are bears. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) estimates that there are around 4,050 black bears in Florida.
• Where there’s water, there are alligators. The FWC estimates a population of 1.3 million alligators across the state.

Florida also hosts 269 species that are found nowhere else, like the Florida scrub jay, the Key deer, and the Florida wild turkey. Before heading out, check resources like the National Forests in Florida website or the Florida State Parks website for wildlife spotting tips and to learn more about local animals and how to safely observe them.

In all my years of hiking here, I’ve only encountered turtles, tortoises, snakes, and alligators near the water—all of which preferred to flee rather than approach. But I always stay alert, especially when paddling, and keep my distance.

The Joy of Observing Wildlife on the Water

One of my favorite parts of paddling is spotting wildlife, from manatees and fish to the occasional jellyfish out on the intracoastal. Every time I go out, I’m on the lookout: “Is that a jellyfish?” “That’s a manatee!” It’s magical—but it’s also a reminder that we’re guests in their home. Paddling is especially gentle on the environment: no motors, no pollutants, and no wake to disturb animals. Observing wildlife up close often leaves paddlers with a deeper respect for conservation.

Additional Tips for Paddling with Wildlife

• Give Them Space: If you see wildlife, especially larger animals, remember to keep your distance. On water, aim for at least 75 feet.
• Never Feed Wildlife: This includes even the cutest animals, like squirrels, river otters, or raccoons. Feeding them can make them aggressive, and non-natural foods can lead to health problems.
• Learn Local Guidelines: Each region has its own unique wildlife. Folks from northern states might not be used to alligators or cottonmouth snakes. Learning about an area before exploring can help you prepare and minimize risks.

Protecting Florida’s Water Quality

Use Spring-Friendly Sunscreen

Using eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen helps keep Florida’s clear waters healthy. Other sunscreens can leave residues that harm both the water and the wildlife, affecting water quality and disrupting delicate ecosystems. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens that protect you without compromising the springs.

Trash-Free Adventures

As outdoor enthusiasts, keeping Florida’s springs clean is one way we can ensure that future generations get to enjoy these beautiful places. One simple habit is carrying a small trash bag. It’s an easy way to make sure everything you bring with you also leaves with you. This small step can make a big difference in keeping Florida’s waters free from litter and pollution.

Preventing Erosion

When paddling, take care to avoid activities that contribute to shoreline erosion:

• Avoid Anchoring Along Sensitive Shores: Anchors can disrupt fragile underwater plants and grasses that help stabilize the soil.
• Protect Vegetation: The plants along the water’s edge play an essential role in preventing soil erosion. Avoid damaging them, as they’re nature’s protection for the shore.
• Launch from Approved Locations: Launching your paddleboard or kayak from designated spots reduces impact on sensitive areas and keeps the shoreline healthy.

Minimizing Pollution on the Water

Keep personal items secure to avoid accidental pollution. It’s easy to lose gear when paddling and swimming, especially when waves or wind pick up. I learned this firsthand when I lost a sentimental pair of sunglasses on the water—a moment that made me more mindful of securing my items. Here are a few tricks I use to keep my gear safe:

• Use Straps for Sunglasses and Hats: Straps help keep valuables from slipping away if the water gets choppy.
• Pack Foods in Reusable Containers: Skip single-use bags or wraps and opt for reusable containers that can withstand an outdoor adventure.
• Bring a Waterproof Case for Valuables: Phones, keys, and other essentials are better protected in waterproof storage.
• Plan for Trash: If possible, avoid bringing anything that you’d need to discard. But if you do, have a plan to pack it out.

Springs That Have Banned Single-Use Plastics

To help protect Florida’s springs, several state parks have taken steps to ban single-use plastics and disposable containers. Here are a couple that have made this commitment:

• Ichetucknee Springs State Park (Fort White, North Central Florida): Single-use plastics, especially in tubing areas, are restricted to help keep the spring-fed river clean and reduce summer pollution from heavy visitor traffic.
• Rainbow Springs State Park (Dunnellon, Central Florida): Plastic containers and other single-use items are banned, especially in tubing areas, to reduce waste in the river and protect water quality.

By following these simple practices, we can enjoy our time on the water responsibly and help preserve the natural beauty of Florida’s springs for years to come.

Respect Fellow Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether you’re paddling or hiking, you’ll likely cross paths with others who are out enjoying Florida’s springs. Sometimes you’ll have a peaceful stretch all to yourself, but it’s always good to be prepared to share the space. Here are a few etiquette tips to keep everyone’s experience enjoyable:

Keep the Noise Down

Florida springs are naturally serene, and part of the magic is the sounds of nature. Lowering noise levels can make it easier to spot wildlife and keeps the peaceful atmosphere intact. Some springs don’t allow speakers due to past noise complaints. That doesn’t mean you can’t laugh or chat, but be mindful of volume.

• Example: My husband and I once strolled through Blue Spring State Park, and we could hear a family’s speaker from halfway down the boardwalk! While music can be a lovely addition to a picnic, everyone doesn’t need to hear it, especially not at full volume.

Trail and Paddle Etiquette

Respect for other trail and waterway users makes it more enjoyable for everyone. Here’s a quick rundown on etiquette:

• With Dogs: Keep dogs leashed and under control. Yield to other trail users, including hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Always stay on the trail, pick up after your dog, and keep them away from wildlife and water edges.
• With Kids: Teach kids to stay on trails and avoid picking flowers (one flower may not seem like much, but it adds up!). Remind them to yield to cyclists and all-terrain wheelchairs, and while it’s okay for them to have fun, they should be mindful that trails aren’t playgrounds.
• Paddling Etiquette: Be quick at the launch ramp, as it’s a busy spot. Don’t linger in loading zones; if you’re with a group, wait off to the side until everyone is ready, then paddle out together for better visibility. Remember that larger boats might not see you right away, even at the dock.

Share the Springs

Florida springs can get busy, especially in the summer and during Manatee Season (November 15 – April 1), like at Silver Springs and Blue Spring. If you’d prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the off-season or during the week when crowds are thinner. Personally, I love having a spring almost to myself—there’s something special about the quiet, personal experience.

The Bigger Picture: Advocacy and Conservation for Florida Springs

Surprising Facts About Florida Springs:

Spring Capital of the World

Florida has 1000+ springs, making it the most spring-rich place on Earth! They come in different sizes – 33 of them pump more than 65 gallons of water every day- each!

Head North for Springs:

Most of Florida’s springs are in the north and north-central regions, from DeFuniak to Tampa—this area is spring central!

Natural Wonder + Big Attraction:

Florida’s springs draw millions each year, bringing in over $7 million annually from just 12 state parks centered around these beautiful waters.

Windows to the Aquifer:

Florida’s springs reveal what’s in our aquifer, the source of drinking water for over 90% of Floridians.

Karst Geology = Vulnerable Waters:

Florida’s springs flow through karst geology, a type of porous rock that allows water to travel underground but also lets pollution reach groundwater just as easily.

Springs Are the Final Destination:

Water travels through recharge zones before emerging at springs. Protecting these zones, like those in the Ocala National Forest, keeps our springs clean and healthy.

Slow-Moving Threats:

Pollution moves slowly through groundwater, meaning damage to springs can take years to appear and years to clear up. Protecting them now helps prevent future damage.

Springs Can Go Dry:

Over-pumping in recharge zones can stop springs from flowing—Kissengen Spring in Polk County dried up in 1950 from excessive pumping nearby.

Support Local Florida Efforts

There are many conservation groups working to protect Florida’s ecosystems, but my go-to is the Florida Springs Council (FSC). As a nonprofit dedicated solely to advocating for springs and spring-fed waterways, FSC offers springs enthusiasts simple, low-effort ways to get involved. From attending events to spreading awareness, it’s easy to make a difference.

Speak Up for Florida’s Springs

The FSC hosts a variety of events designed to bring spring lovers together. Whether it’s casual meetups at breweries, educational talks, or their biennial Springs Summit, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and informed. Membership is free, and joining connects you with updates on events, conservation news, and ways to help protect Florida’s springs.

Taking part in conservation efforts connects us as we work together to ensure healthy springs for future generations. Together, we can make a lasting impact on Florida’s springs!

Best Springs in Central Florida

Ready to visit a Florida spring? Check out my blog posts to learn more:

• Everything You Need to Know for a Fun Visit at Wekiwa Springs State Park
• Silver Springs State Park: Must-Know Tips for Your Next Visit
• Embrace the Outdoors: 13 Incredible Experiences Await at De Leon Springs State Park
• Uncover the Natural Wonders of Alexander Springs: 12 Essential Tips for Your Visit
• 14 Must-Do Activities at Blue Spring State Park