Getaways to the authentic Florida
Florida has the highest concentration of springs and spring runs in the world, and many offer recreation such as swimming, scuba diving, paddle trails, camping, fishing and summer escapes.
Many of the springs are being loved to death. Please enjoy the springs responsibly:
The Ichetucknee is the most pristine spring run in the state. It has eight major springs, crystalline water, lush jungly vegetation plus plentiful birds and wildlife. It’s a shame that most visitors only experience it as a busy tubing river. It’s a fabulous winter kayaking destination in North Florida — worth a drive!
Not only is the Suwannee a stunning wild river worth exploring for its beauty, it also offers five unusual river camps accessible only by boat. The camps have screened, covered camping platforms with electricity and a central bathhouse with hot water. The free river camps provide comfy conditions for multi-day trips.
Crystal River is the only river in Florida where you are allowed to swim with the manatees, and it’s undergoing a remarkable restoration.
Tucked into a corner of Hillsborough County is a small 160-acre preserve with a fabulous swimming hole and shady campground along the Alafia River.
A classic experiences of an Old Florida vacation is a scenic boat tour. Here are 9 iconic boat tours I recommend from personal experience.
Central Florida is home to a diverse selection of Florida state parks with camping. Something for everybody, even if you don’t own a tent or RV. (2nd in a series)
Rainbow Springs and the Rainbow River are among Florida’s top tubing and kayaking spots. People love this waterway because of the pure, clear water and spectacular natural setting. In winter, it’s a peaceful place to kayak and perhaps see otters. In summer, it’s full of tubes floating through a cool paradise.
Launch at the famous springhead and paddle a historic waterway with monkeys, manatees and otters. Silver Springs kayaking is as good as it gets.
Kelly Park is a popular summer destination for swimming in cool springs and paddling scenic Rock Springs Run, including the stunning Emerald Cut.
All those “lazy river” water attractions at hotels and parks? They’re just trying to recreate the exhilarating experience of tubing the clear, wild Ichetucknee River in north central Florida. Try the real thing. Summer tubing season has started.
Shangri-la Springs is a historic hotel surrounded by eight acres of gardens with fountains, ponds, towering trees and the original spring the town is named for. You are welcome to visit the grounds or have breakfast or lunch at its restaurant, which serves produce from its organic garden. It’s an Old Florida hidden gem!
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is known for its iconic mermaid show and water park. The gorgeous spring-fed river is also a great place for kayak and SUP rentals, although the route from the park has been shortened.