When we visited St. Augustine, I expected history, beaches, and maybe a stop at the famous Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. What I didn’t expect was that some of our favorite memories would come from a completely different kind of water experience – Florida’s natural springs.
If you’ve ever searched for hot springs in Florida, you’ve probably noticed the options are… limited. But what the state lacks in hot springs, it more than makes up for with crystal-clear natural springs that offer something even better for families. Swimming, wildlife, and unforgettable moments. Here are some of our favorites across the Sunshine State.
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Are There Hot Springs in Florida?
For families looking for true natural warm springs in Florida, it can be surprising that there’s only one in the whole state, found in Warm Mineral Springs Park.
Located in North Port, Warm Mineral Springs stays a constant 85 degrees year-round. Think more of a spa than somewhere for family swimming and adventure.
It’s worth the stop – but so are Florida’s famous natural springs. The crystal-clear waters have a water temperature of 72℉ year-round, perfect for a refreshing swim, wildlife encounters, and scuba diving.
The whole family enjoyed exploring Florida’s springs. Photo Credit: Shane Kirk
Our Favorite Natural Springs in Florida
Silver Glen Springs
For us, Silver Glen Springs was our most memorable stop. The water is so clear you can easily see your feet at the bottom, and the spring basin is filled with huge schools of fish that move together in swirling patterns.
All the kids (and some adults, too!) were super determined to swim down and touch the fish schools. Watching everyone dive in again and again, just trying to get a little closer, ended up being one of those unexpected moments that sticks with you long after the trip ends.
Long before families visited for swimming and snorkeling, the Timucua people used this area for gathering and travel. Archaeologists have uncovered shell middens and evidence of Native American history dating back hundreds of years.
There’s also a slightly wild, unfiltered feel to this area in the Ocala National Forest. We saw a bear (who ran off with someone’s pack of buns!) and even a gator (outside of the swimming area). It’s the kind of place where nature takes the lead, and visitors just get to be a part of it.
Where to Stay
Families visiting Silver Glen Springs often stay along the Ocala National Forest, where cabin rentals and waterfront lodges give the trip a more adventurous feel. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Deland South is another reliable, family-friendly option with complimentary breakfast, a pool, and larger rooms perfect for lounging after a day of exploring the springs.
Juniper Springs
Juniper Springs is quieter, greener, and a little more untouched than other central Florida springs. It has an almost jungle-like feel, filled with palms, oak trees, and winding boardwalks.
Water so clear you can see your toes!
Photo Credit: Shane Kirk
The historic millhouse adds to that “old Florida” charm, and the swimming area is one of the most scenic in the state. Juniper Springs is perfect for slowing down a bit, especially if your family has been bouncing between busier attractions.
There’s a sense here that the area has been carefully preserved, and it shows in how natural everything still feels.
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Where to Stay
There aren’t a lot of lodgings in the heart of the Ocala National Forest, but there are tons of camping options. Juniper Springs Recreational Area is fairly popular with tons of shaded tenting sites, plus RV hookups. Enjoy activities like swimming in the natural pool, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Wekiwa Springs is one of the most accessible and family-friendly springs in Florida, especially if your family is visiting Orlando. There is tons of space for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing in the shade. The main springs are really easy to reach, perfect if you are traveling with younger kids.
Kayaking offers a different view of the springs.
Photo by Ashley Edwards on Unsplash
Not big on swimming? Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular at Wekiwa Springs, letting families explore the waterways at a slower pace.
Other nearby options like Kelly Park/Rock Springs offer a similar experience with a natural “lazy river” feel that kids especially love. They’re great places for first-timers looking for a more relaxing spring experience.
Where to Stay
Hilton Garden Inn Apopka City Center is a convenient option for families visiting Wekiwa Springs and the Orlando area. Families will appreciate the outdoor pool, spacious rooms, on-site dining, and easy drive to both the springs and Orlando attractions.
Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is best known for its manatees, especially during the cooler months when hundreds gather in the warm spring waters. Swimming is seasonal, but just the boardwalk views make it worth visiting.
My boys loved spotting manatees up close, watching them move through the water, and seeing who could spot the biggest manatee (it was my youngest, this time!).
You don’t remember how BIG manatees are until you’re up close!
Photo by Yejiang Yang on Unsplash
There’s a strong conservation focus in Blue Spring State Park and it’s clear that protecting wildlife like the big, beautiful manatees is a priority. This adds an educational layer to the experience without taking away from the fun.
It’s also a historical area. The local Timucua people lived here for hundreds of years, relying on the springs for food. Families can see discarded snail shells in huge archaeological mounds from the Timicua people’s diets.
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Where to Stay
Just 10 miles from the springs, Tropical Resort & Marina on Lake Beresford offers boat, pontoon, and kayak rentals for more adventurous families. Suites range from studios to three-bedrooms, plus there’s a heated pool.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Weeki Wachee offers a more unique spring experience. It has beautiful, clear water and swimming areas, but it stands out because of the famous mermaid show.
Running since 1947, the live mermaid performances feel like a piece of classic Florida history. It’s quirky and memorable, especially for kids seeing it for the first time.
Florida’s springs are so much more than just swimming!
Photo Credit: Shane Kirk
Weeki Wachee Springs also has river floats and water slides. With the show, it’s easily one of the most entertaining Florida springs for families, blending natural beauty with just enough fun to keep everyone engaged.
Where to Stay
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Spring Hill is near the springs, plus many dining options. They also have family-friendly amenities like an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
Three Sisters Springs
Bright turquoise waters and incredible visibility make Three Sisters Springs one of the most beautiful in the state. It’s also one of the most protected.
Three Sisters Spring has a more natural feel.
Photo Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/myfwcmedia/
During manatee season, access to certain areas is restricted to protect the animals. This level of care adds to the experience. It isn’t just about visiting a beautiful place, but understanding why its preservation is so important.
Whether you’re kayaking or viewing from the boardwalk, families will find a peaceful, surreal setting here. It feels very different from the more high-energy springs in the state.
Where to Stay
The Port Hotel and Marina is just a 10-minute walk from Three Sisters Springs and has a free breakfast and outdoor pool. There’s also a bar with live music for mom and dad, plus an on-site dive center offering certified diving instruction, boat, kayak, and snorkel rentals, and manatee tours.
Inchetucknee Springs State Park
Ichetucknee Springs is famous for tubing, and for many families, it’s a tradition that gets repeated year after year.
Fun fact: Inchetucknee gets its name from the Timicua people, meaning “beaver pond”. Springs like this near the Suwannee River were historically important gathering and travel areas for Native American communities, long before Florida became a tourist destination.
Perfect for a relaxing day floating down the spring run!
Photo Credit: The Volen Group
Located near the Suwannee River, this area is known for its water clarity and laid-back, natural beauty. Locals have been coming here for generations to appreciate the unplugged atmosphere. For families, it’s an easy win. Simple, fun, and just adventurous enough to feel like something special.
Where to Stay
Vacation cabins and riverfront rentals near Ichetucknee Springs are especially popular with families planning tubing trips. Many include full kitchens, outdoor fire pits, and enough space to relax after long days floating down the spring run near the Suwannee River.
A Note on Visiting Florida’s Springs
Florida springs are more than swimming spots. They’re part of a delicate ecosystem fed by underground aquifers.
Many of the most famous ones are classified as first magnitude springs, meaning they discharge more than 64 million gallons of water every day and maintain the incredible, clear waters they are known for all year round. Many have ties to Native American history. And, Florida has more than any other state in the United States.
Expect to pay an entry fee. Most charge by the carload, and you might need reservations to visit during peak times, like holidays and weekends. Call ahead and bring cash for the entry fee.
You’ll also find other well-known spots like Rainbow Springs and Ginnie Springs throughout the state. While Rainbow Springs is known for its waterfalls and family-friendly atmosphere, Ginnie Springs tends to draw a more adult crowd, especially on weekends.
There’s a family-fun vibe at Rainbow Springs.
Photo by Jacksonville Beach Moms on Unsplash
Once you see the crystal-clear waters, it’s easy to see why these beautiful springs are so carefully protected. There’s a shared sense, especially among locals, that Florida’s springs are something special worth preserving for future generations.
When You Go
Many of Florida’s springs are in the north and central parts of the state, so it makes most sense for families traveling from Los Angeles to fly into Tampa, Orlando, or Jacksonville. Nonstop flights take just under 5 hours, and American, Delta, JetBlue, United, and Southwest all make the flight.
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