As students gear up for another semester at school, I can’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. Not because I want to be in their shoes, but because I want to relive the experience I had.
At the University of South Florida, I got to enjoy the beautiful campus, go out in the eventful city of Tampa, and explore the beautiful landscape of Florida. Some of the best memories I made were trips with friends to snorkel and explore various natural springs across the state.
So, although I’m incredibly jealous of USF students embarking on another year, I’ve created this list of must-visit Florida springs just for you. Treat it as a bucket list to complete before you graduate. I loved exploring these refreshing waters and so will you.
1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712
This state park, set up almost like an enormous public pool, is a great place to spend a day in the sun. With tons of space to set up a picnic and multiple points of water entry, this spring is great for large groups and family outings. The water is crystal clear, a moderate depth, and offers a few points of snorkeling exploration. You can dive into the depths of a vast underwater cave to explore the aquifer.
2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
The Blue Springs crystal clear, 73-degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers, and tubers alike. You’re able to enter the water easily by following a boardwalk and scaling a moderate staircase. Then, you can roam the massive spring freely. While it requires a decent bit of swimming to reach the best underwater scenery for snorkeling, it is worth the effort. I spent hours diving down to explore the rocky earth below.
12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038
Ichetucknee Springs State Park features nine freshwater springs that are connected by a long, well-built boardwalk in the forest. Although all of the springs are fun for swimmers and snorkelers of any level, I would recommend the last spring, “Blue Hole” to real adventures. The water is brisk, but the underground cavern and scenery are magnificent.
7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643
Not only is Ginnie Springs an excellent spot for a fun weekend of camping and river tubing, but it also offers seven beautiful springs open for exploration. I’ve been here multiple times, and I’ve discovered something new with each visit. From turtles and fish to sinkholes and caves, Ginnie Springs has so much to offer.
5390 NE 180 Ave, Williston, FL 32696
This is by far the best spring Florida has to offer. Entering this underground cavern and underwater lair is like exploring a whole new world. The experience is almost too amazing for words, so I’ll let my video below do the talking.
Now you have all the information you need to have an adventure filled year exploring the natural springs of Florida. Ready. Set. Go snorkel!
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