10 Best Springs in Florida to visit

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Florida beyond theme parks, here are the 10 best springs in Florida to visit. These are listed by the best springs in Florida to visit with kids, since this is Florida Travel with Kids! However, visiting springs in Florida is perfect for all ages.

Florida is home to over 700 natural springs, and many of them are surprisingly family-friendly. Unlike beaches, springs offer shade, cool water year-round, and calm swimming areas.

Many of these springs are close to Orlando, so they are perfect for a day away from the theme parks. We have lots of tips on the blog for Universal and Disney, so check out out if you’ll be visiting the springs during an Orlando vacation.

Some of these springs are located in the best state parks near Orlando.

What to Know Before You Go

Before heading to one of Florida’s springs with kids, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Arrive early – During busy times of the year (such as school holidays), most springs limit capacity, and parking fills up quickly.
• Bring water shoes to protect little feet from rocks.
• Pack plenty of snacks and drinks – some parks have concessions, but not all.
• Don’t forget sunscreen (reef-safe, this is our favorite) and towels.
• Be mindful of wildlife – It’s important to both respect the wildlife and be aware that dangerous wildlife can always be nearby.

If you’re flying into Florida, I recommend renting a car from Discount USA Car Rental. They offer the absolute best rates on rental cars; you don’t pay until you pick it up, and cancellation is free.

The 10 Best Springs in Florida for Families

Here are the 10 best springs in Florida for families, listed by what we consider to be the most family-friendly.

1. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

If you’re only visiting one spring with young kids, Weeki Wachee Springs is the winner. Famous for its live mermaid shows, it’s also home to Buccaneer Bay, a natural spring water park with slides and a sandy beach area. There are also clear-bottomed kayak tours that can be fun if you don’t want to get in the water!

2. Blue Spring State Park (Orange City)

Blue Spring is known for its manatees, which gather here in winter. Even in summer (when manatees aren’t usually here), this spring is a favorite for families thanks to its calm swimming area, restrooms, and picnic tables.

If you love manatees, make sure to check out the 12 best places to see manatees in Florida. Blue Springs State Park is on the list! You can take a River Cruise or kayaking tour.

3. Alexander Springs (Ocala National Forest)

Alexander Springs has one of the most toddler-friendly swimming areas in Florida. It’s wide, sandy, and shallow with a gentle slope. It’s like a natural wading pool surrounded by trees.

4. Silver Springs State Park (Ocala)

Even if your kids aren’t ready to swim, Silver Springs is a must-see. Enjoy the crystal-clear water in clear-bottom kayaks and spot turtles, fish, monkeys, and even manatees.

5. Wekiwa Springs State Park (Apopka)

Just 30 minutes from Orlando, Wekiwa Springs is an easy day trip if you’re visiting the theme parks. The spring has a calm, shallow swim area and shaded picnic spots nearby.

6. Rainbow Springs State Park (Dunnellon)

With waterfalls, gardens, and clear blue water, Rainbow Springs is both beautiful and family-friendly. There’s a shallow entry area perfect for confident swimmers. You can also rent tubes or kayaks here!

7. Juniper Springs (Ocala National Forest)

A smaller but scenic spring, Juniper Springs offers a shaded pool with shallow edges. It’s ideal for families who want a quiet, natural setting without big crowds.

8. Ichetucknee Springs State Park (Fort White)

Ichetucknee Springs is famous for tubing, making it a fun choice for families with older kids (around age 8 and up). There are also calm swimming holes and picnic areas for little ones.

9. Ginnie Springs (High Springs)

Ginnie Springs is privately owned, but one of the most popular in North Florida. The water is stunningly clear and perfect for snorkeling. It’s best for older kids who are confident swimmers.

10. Fanning Springs State Park (Fanning Springs)

If you’re looking for a quiet, less crowded option, Fanning Springs is perfect. The park has a small swimming area, shallow water for little ones, and even a playground nearby.

Tips for Visiting Florida Springs with Kids

• Arrive early — most springs hit capacity by mid-morning.
• Bring reusable water bottles and snacks.
• Pack extra towels and a change of clothes for everyone.
• Use life jackets for younger or less experienced swimmers.

Keep Florida’s Springs Beautiful

• Avoid glass or single-use plastics.
• Dispose of trash properly and use recycling bins when available.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and teach kids to respect wildlife.

The 10 Best Springs in Florida to visit

There you have it, the 10 best springs in Florida to visit with kids. If you’re planning a Florida vacation and need some help, feel free to contact me!

More Florida travel tips:

• 16 things to do in Crystal River with kids
• The Ultimate Guide to Universal Orlando Hotels
• Visiting Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Everything you need to know!
• 15 things to do in Fort Lauderdale with kids

About Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here. If you want even more tips, make sure to join our mailing list. We’ll share any new tips and tricks we learn, along with Florida news and recent blog posts of our adventures.

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