Top 16 Stunning Freshwater Springs to Visit in Florida

Crystal-clear and a refreshing temperature year-round, Florida’s springs provide the ideal swimming holes that every adventurer dreams of. Home to about 700 glorious springs, Florida is renowned for its impressive collection of freshwater pools. This state, sitting atop an aquifer, sees fresh water bubbling up from below ground—especially in the central and northern regions—resulting in many springs that offer adventurous alternatives to Florida’s beloved beaches.

Choosing which Florida springs to visit can be a challenge; while they are all crystal-clear and maintain a crisp temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, some are better for diving, and others are more photogenic. Below, we’ve selected 16 of the best springs in Florida that promise an unforgettable experience.

Ginnie Springs

For those seeking pristine nature, Ginnie Springs is hard to beat, boasting some of the clearest waters of all the natural springs in Florida. Situated within a two-hour drive from major hubs like Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee, Ginnie Springs is slightly off the beaten path yet easy to reach. While there, you can float in an inner tube, enjoy breathtaking freshwater dives, or explore the waters with kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing if you prefer to stay dry.

As a privately owned park, Ginnie Springs does require an admission fee. Keep in mind that the park enforces a strict no-pet policy.

Rainbow Springs

Located within Rainbow Springs State Park near Dunnellon, these springs are steeped in thousands of years of history and feature several beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities, including canoeing, kayaking, tubing, swimming, or hiking. Rainbow Springs is often considered one of the most picturesque springs in Florida, making it a perfect spot to cool off after exploring the park.

Similar to most Florida State Parks, pets are welcome at Rainbow Springs as long as they are kept on a six-foot leash and do not enter the water.

Madison Blue Spring

Nestled near the Florida-Georgia border, Madison Blue Spring is one of Florida’s first-magnitude springs located on the west bank of the Withlacoochee River. These first-magnitude springs discharge at least 65 million gallons of water per day, making them some of the largest in the state. Madison Blue Spring features underwater caves and sapphire waters, creating a paradise for both swimmers and scuba divers alike.

Homosassa Springs

As one of the largest springs in Florida, Homosassa Springs has attracted visitors for thousands of years. Historically, tourists would journey by train to reach this magnificent first-magnitude spring. The waters here still support a vibrant ecosystem, including both fresh and saltwater fish along with a thriving manatee population.

The Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park features an underwater observatory that grants visitors a unique opportunity to walk beneath the spring’s surface and take in the marine life. Additionally, elevated boardwalks and paved pathways provide opportunities to view orphaned wildlife such as the endangered Florida panther, red wolf, black bear, and bobcat. Note that the entrance fee is $13 for adults and teenagers, while children aged six to 12 enter for $5.

Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring

Devil’s Den is an underground spring located inside a dry cave formed by a karst window, which was created when the ground over a subterranean river collapsed. Located near Williston, Devil’s Den is remote yet incredibly worth the visit, particularly for scuba divers and snorkelers seeking unique underwater experiences.

Visitors can explore this breathtaking underwater environment while also encountering ancient history, as fossils of extinct animals from the Pleistocene Age have been discovered here. Various amenities are offered on-site, including equipment rentals, while pets are not allowed.

Wekiwa Springs

Located just 20 minutes north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is an easy addition to any Florida adventure. With dense hardwood hammocks, abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, and numerous activities—including horseback riding, biking trails, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and more—Wekiwa Springs feels like a nature-themed park that promises countless opportunities for exploration.

This attraction has been well-loved for many years; it was discovered in the 1860s and began welcoming guests with a hotel and bathhouse complex by the 1890s, making it one of the first tourist attractions in central Florida. Entrance costs $6 per vehicle.

Rock Springs at Kelly Park

Situated about a 20-minute drive northwest of Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs is often referred to as “Orlando’s natural lazy river” due to its flowing waters. This park is popular for tubing, as the refreshing waters at 68 degrees Fahrenheit provide respite from the hot Floridian sun. Visitors can rent tubes from nearby vendors and are allowed to bring their own floats provided they are under five feet in length or width.

Rock Springs features convenient amenities such as a concession stand, picnic pavilions, and a playground. There are also options for tent and RV camping, as well as a launch area for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. The swimming area may close during periods of high alligator activity, so it is wise to verify before your visit.

De Leon Springs

Rich in history, De Leon Springs offers a unique blend of culture and recreation. Historically known as “Acuera,” meaning “healing waters,” by the indigenous Mayaca people, the springs provide trails through a subtropical forest filled with ancient Cypress trees. In the 1830s, the spring played a crucial role in turning a sugar cane mill, and during the Civil War, it powered a grist mill. Today, visitors can enjoy a pancake house located at an antique replica of the original mill—note that admission is $6 per vehicle, required for dining or swimming.

Three Sisters Springs

Crystal River is home to one of Florida’s hidden gems—Three Sisters Springs, easily accessible by private boat or kayak from Kings Bay. To maximize your experience, consider joining a kayaking tour, which offers incredible views of the clear waters and the aquatic life below. Visit during manatee season—from November through March—for a chance to interact with these gentle giants. Remember, only registered service animals are permitted within the refuge.

Little River Springs

Located off the Suwannee River in O’Brien, Florida—known as “Spring Country”—Little River Springs is a favored spot for swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving. Experienced divers can explore an extensive underwater cave network, while leisure swimmers can bask in the typically calm, clear waters that maintain a steady 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

The springs reside within Little River Springs County Park, which offers picnic areas, restrooms, and a raised wooden boardwalk featuring scenic overlooks to enjoy the stunning views of the spring waters intermingling with the dark waters of the Suwannee River.

Ichetucknee Springs

Located at Ichetucknee Springs State Park in northern Florida, this beautiful site is fed by eight major springs that form the six-mile Ichetucknee River. Visitors can kayak or float along the river under lush canopies, snorkel, and observe a variety of wildlife, including beavers and wild turkeys. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Wakulla Springs

The stunning Wakulla Springs, located in Florida’s Panhandle, is known as the largest and deepest freshwater spring in the world. Surrounded by ancient cypress swamps, Wakulla Springs is rich in history, having served as a filming location for classic movies like “Tarzan’s Secret Treasure” (1941) and “The Creature from the Black Lagoon” (1954). Today, visitors can enjoy swimming, scuba diving, and boat tours while also taking in the historical significance. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle.

Weeki Wachee Springs

For a truly unique experience, visit Weeki Wachee Springs, home to real-life mermaid performances. This iconic natural attraction allows visitors to enjoy underwater shows, riverboat cruises, kayaking, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Named by the Seminoles, “Weeki Wachee” translates to “little spring” or “winding river” and remains one of the deepest naturally formed underwater caverns in the country. Pets are not permitted in the park, except for service animals.

Troy Spring

Troy Spring is notable for its historical significance, featuring the remains of a Civil War-era steamboat deep within the water. This submerged ship, known as “The Madison,” was constructed in the mid-1880s and served as a floating mail service. Today, Troy Spring offers accessible walkways, picnic tables, nature trails, and a riverside dock for boaters; however, only certified divers are allowed for open-water scuba diving. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle for entrance.

Ocala National Forest Springs

Right in the heart of Florida, Ocala National Forest contains four major springs—Juniper, Alexander, Silver Glen, and Salt Springs. Each spring exhibits the stunning blues and greens characteristic of Florida’s springs and provides perfect visibility beneath the surface. Visitors can swim in these refreshing waters on hot summer days or explore the springs by kayak. Pets, other than service dogs, are not permitted in day-use areas.

Gilchrist Blue Springs

Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, Florida’s 175th state park established in 2017, features six natural springs, the most famous being Gilchrist Blue, which discharges around 44 million gallons of water each day. Known for its incredible clarity, the springs attract paddlers, snorkelers, and swimmers alike.