Orlando is famous for its theme parks, but its nature spots are just as noteworthy. Within an hour or two of the city, you’ll find freshwater springs with crystal-clear water, green forests, unique wildlife, and incredible outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to swim, kayak, or simply unwind in nature, these springs are must-visit day trips.
1. Rock Springs Run State Reserve
Paddle along the pristine waters of Rock Springs Run State Preserve
Known for its clear emerald waters and gentle current, Rock Springs Run is a classic Florida tubing and kayaking destination. The spring emerges at Kelly Park, where you can float downstream on inner tubes during warmer months. For the full spring experience, try booking a 2-hour glass-bottom guided kayak tour.
The surrounding area is largely undeveloped, and wildlife sightings, including deer, otters, and wading birds, are common. In addition to water activities, the reserve has trails for hiking and horseback riding, making it a good option for travelers who want more than just time on the water.
Klook tip: Try to arrive early at the Rock Springs Run, as daily capacity limits are strictly enforced. Also, if you want to avoid crowds, kayaking further into the state reserve offers a quieter experience.
2. Blue Spring State Park
Get a closer view of the protected manatees at Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is a popular year-round destination with two very different seasonal experiences. In warmer months, you can enjoy swimming, free diving, tubing, and paddling in the spring run, with clear waters that stay at a constant 72°F (22°C). If you’re looking for other adventures, there are also manatee encounter kayaking tours and family-friendly scuba tours that you can opt for.
During winter, swimming is closed as the park becomes a protected manatee refuge. Visitors can still enjoy the boardwalks and viewing platforms, which offer some of the best land-based manatee viewing in Central Florida.
Hiking trails through the surrounding forest add to the appeal, making this a well-rounded stop for both recreation and wildlife viewing.
3. Spring Hammock Preserve
Stroll comfortably along the elevated boardwalks at Spring Hammock Preserve, Photo by Seminole County FL on Facebook
A protected ecological sanctuary in Seminole County, Spring Hammock Preserve features a diverse landscape of freshwater swamps, slow-moving springs, and towering cypress trees.
Shaded and elevated (and ADA-compliant) boardwalks wind through the wetlands, allowing you to explore delicate ecosystems without disturbing them. You can even learn as you go with signage along the trails offering insight into native plants, wildlife, and hydrology.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, low-impact outdoor experience near Orlando, Spring Hammock is a solid choice.
Klook tip: Keep your eyes peeled for one of the most famous old-growth trees in the preserve. The Lady Liberty tree is a bald cypress estimated to be 2,000 years old, reaching 90 feet, with a diameter of almost 10 feet, and a wide circumference of 400 inches.
4. De Leon Springs State Park
Kayakers gliding through calm waters, surrounded by fresh spring greens, Photo by Eric Tompkins on Unsplash
De Leon Springs State Park combines a natural spring with a well-known historic restaurant, making it a unique stop. The spring pool is open for swimming and stays cool year-round, providing a refreshing break on hot days. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and splashing around in the designated swimming area, with depths ranging from 18 inches to 30 feet at the spring boil.
In addition to swimming and dining, visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboats and walk short nature trails. While you’re here, be sure to join the waitlist for the Old Sugar Mill Pancake Restaurant, where you can flip your own pancakes using your choice of ingredients.
5. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Put your snorkeling gear on and get ready to swim with the manatees
Crystal River is world-renowned for its manatee encounters, especially during the winter months when hundreds of manatees gather in the warm spring-fed waters of the national wildlife refuge. It’s one of the few places in Florida where swimming with manatees is allowed under strict guidelines designed to protect the animals.
Aside from a swim with the manatees day tour, the spring offers excellent kayaking and snorkeling opportunities, particularly around Three Sisters Springs. The water is clear, calm, and easy to navigate, even for beginners.
Klook tip: Interested in learning more about manatee behavior and conservation? Check out the refuge’s guided tours to learn more about these interesting aquatic mammals.
6. Wekiwa Springs State Park
Enjoy the calming nature views at Wekiwa Springs State Park, Photo by Ashley Edwards on Unsplash
Wekiwa Springs State Park is one of the closest natural springs to Orlando, making it a convenient day trip. The main spring basin is large and well-maintained, with plenty of space for swimming.
Kayaking and canoeing along the Wekiwa River is a highlight, especially if you’re interested in longer, scenic paddles. Enjoy spotting wildlife like turtles, river otters, white-tailed deer, and herons as you float along the river.
On land, the park has an extensive trail system for hiking and biking through pine forests and wetlands. Overall, facilities are family-friendly, and the park attracts a mix of locals and visitors.
7. Silver Springs State Park
Take in the underwater sights at Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is one of Florida’s most well-known spring destinations, largely due to its glass-bottom boat tours and kayak or paddleboard gator tours. These tours provide a clear view of the spring’s underwater scenery and are accessible to visitors of all ages. The park also has a strong reputation for wildlife viewing.
Kayaking and paddleboarding along the Silver River offer a more active way to explore the area. It’s common to see birds, turtles, alligators, and the park’s well-known rhesus monkeys along the riverbanks.
8. Alexander Springs
The clear blue waters and green foliage at Alexander Springs, Photo by Kelsey Wilkerson on Pexels
Located in the Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs is one of Florida’s few first-magnitude springs open for swimming. With shallow sandy areas, clear blue waters, and deeper areas for snorkeling, it’s especially popular among families. The surrounding forest adds to the experience, offering hiking trails and quieter paddling routes along the spring run.
Compared to springs closer to Orlando, Alexander Springs feels less developed and more natural. It’s great if you want a straightforward spring day without too many crowds or complicated logistics.
See the best of Orlando Springs with Klook
Exploring Orlando’s natural springs is easy. From manatee tours to glass-bottom kayaking adventures, you can book ahead, skip the stress, and enjoy nature escapes, all with Klook.
FAQs about Orlando Springs
What are the most popular natural springs near Orlando?
Top favorites include Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs Run, Blue Spring State Park, Silver Springs State Park, and Alexander Springs. Crystal River is another well-known spot for manatee encounters.
How far are Orlando’s springs from the city center?
Most natural springs near Orlando are located about 25 minutes to 1.5 hours from downtown, perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.
Can you swim in the springs near Orlando?
Yes, many of the springs near Orlando have designated swimming areas that are open seasonally or year-round. Popular swimming springs include Wekiwa Springs, Alexander Springs, and De Leon Springs.
Do you need to book in advance to visit Orlando springs?
Booking guided tours or reserving weekday visits is recommended as some parks fill up early in the day, especially on weekends and holidays.
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