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Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park is an excellent activity. The state park is also a winter home to hundreds of manatees. Here is everything you want to know about Blue Spring State Park FL!!
Blue State vs. Blue Springs
When making travel plans, be cautious about arriving at your select destination. While Blue State Park, FL, is in Orange County, two other Florida state parks have similar names.
Swimming manatees at the Blue Spring State Park
Lafayette Blue Springs State park is in Mayo, Florida. It is comparable to the second one, Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park in High Springs, Florida.
Blue Spring State Park FL
As a part of the largest spring on St. John, Blue Spring State Park FL belongs to the indigenous tribe of Timucua. Yet the colonization by the Spaniards had severe effects on the Timucuan settlements. It forced them to disappear by the late 1700s. In the 1800s, the earlier settler Louis Thursby settled in an area around the Blue Spring.
Crowds enjoying the park waters.
It is worth noting that the founding of the current Blue State Park, FL, was in 1970. There were only twenty manatees before. But the population increased thanks to conservation efforts made by a few organizations. There are now more than 400 manatees. Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park allows visitors a fascinating experience. It lets guests get an up-close view of these innocent mammals.
Blue Spring State Park Opening Times
Blue Spring State Park FL, is open for visitors from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., all year round. Caretakers stop water recreation and close the spring run during the colder months. After all, the park is a winter home to manatees. But, during this time, you can enjoy watching the warm springs from a distance. There you may see manatees returning to bask. Still, kayaking at Blue Spring State Park in the lagoon or Snake River is also an excellent idea.
The Crowd at Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park FL, generally reaches its capacity during the week. It can even become more crowded on the weekends. The main reason is the park’s proximity to Deltona Beach, as many locals spend their weekends here. So, if you are planning a weekend tour, expect double the crowd.
Visitors enjoying watersports
Also, the summer months, from May through August, mean a steady increase in traffic. It is also when the park reaches its total capacity. Winter months are less busy.
Keep your kayak stored safely between those fun Florida excursions!
The Cost
The cost is another significant travel factor to consider. It would help if you thought about this when visiting Blue Spring State Park. It costs $6 per vehicle for parking, while all reservations can cost about $6.70. So, make sure to make a reservation with the utmost care, as the cost is non-refundable. Likewise, pedestrians are also welcome, with an entry cost of $2 per person.
Blue Spring State Park Campgrounds
The Blue Spring State Park campsite is to the northeast. The site offers easy walking access to the spring. Visitors can find 51 single-family campsites. Both have primitive and electric hookups. Also, there are six cabins that you can rent.
Alligators in the Blue Spring Waters
Activities to Enjoy at Blue Spring State Park
Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park is a mesmerizing activity. But plenty of other activities are also enjoyable. They can make vacationing with your family worthwhile.
1. Swimming
2. Canoeing and Kayaking
More than a swimming spot, Blue Spring State Park is also famous for offering watersports. Guests there enjoy canoeing and kayaking at the Blue Spring State Park. They are the perfect sports for teens and adults. The still blue waters and scenic spots make the state park idyllic for the said activities.
A Florida couple about to kayak
Guests can bring their kayaks and canoes, yet on-site rentals are also available. You can buy or rent essentials like life jackets from the gift shop located at the trail front. Likewise, to get everything handled, you can opt for a kayak or canoe tour via Blue Spring Adventures.
3. Wildlife Watching
4. Biking
5. Hiking
The site has more than paved and uninterrupted biking trails. Blue Spring State Park has a variety of hiking routes around the spring’s wilderness. You can take the half-mile boardwalk parallel to the spring run for a relaxing walk. Also, if you want to amp up your adventure, you can opt for the Pine Island Trail. This route begins from the lower parking area and runs to the St. John River.
Moreover, the 7.3 miles of trail tunnels will take you through old oaks and other fascinating views. It will allow you and your family to have a grand time exploring and photographing.
6. Free-Floating Tubing
Tubing can be your fun activity. You can try it if swimming isn’t your thing and you can’t ride a kayak. It may be good for you if you want to enjoy an easy yet exhilarating and family-friendly activity. It’s fun, requires no skills, and is suitable for teens and adults alike. Tubing at the Blue Spring State Park offers the shortest tube run among all the Florida springs. Yet it is still one of the best sites for the activity.
Get Soaked and Float For Fun
7. Volksmarching
Have you ever heard about Volksmarching? It is an organized fitness walk from Germany. Locals and travelers visit the park to join it. At the Blue Springs State Park, you may find it hard to miss the “FVA” symbols marking the forest paths. These marks show the way of the Florida Volkssport Association. They are also in the woodland trails in the upper campground area.
Hiking is enjoyable too!
Volksmarching is fun as you can walk with a group of families or friends. Joining a group allows for making new friends and reconnecting with nature. Yet, it would help if you stayed updated to know when these events ring the bell.
8. Visit the Thursby’s Cabin
Besides birdwatching and other activities, Blue Spring State Park FL offers more. For instance, it has the Thursby’s House. People fond of history will love to visit the historic home of the Thursby family. Folks built the cabin in 1872, and the US National Registry of Historic Sites honored them.
See old trees and houses nearby.
Its decor and architecture are fascinating and tell a lot about the local history of the land. During our visit, we experienced the old ways of the Sunshine State.
Guidelines for a Family Trip to Blue Springs State Park
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Bring a first-aid kit when visiting the Blue Spring State Park. If possible, ensure to get the contact numbers of camp officials from the rangers’ office.
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Using a broad-spectrum SPF and waterproof sunscreen is essential if you plan to swim. The park has changing rooms you can use before and after your dip. Moreover, there is also a gift shop and camp store from where you can get all the essentials at a fair price.
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Remember to carry toilet paper, diapers, extra towels, napkins, and hand sanitizers. These items are for hygiene and safety during trips.
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Pack the items you need outdoors in a waterproof bag for easy access. A suitable container can keep your GPS, map, water bottle, and snacks dry.
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If you plan a summer trip, remember that insects and mosquitoes can cause a lot of trouble. So, carrying a child-safe bug repellent is wise to protect you and your family.
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State parks have designated places to protect endangered species. So avoid disturbing the wildlife during your leisure.
To Wrap It Up
That’s all about Blue Springs State Park, FL. The state park, with great outdoor activities, has something for everyone. It is a perfect spot to visit with your family and friends and explore what it offers. From swimming to wildlife watching, there are loads of activities that you can enjoy. Volksmarching and kayaking at Blue Spring State Park also bring fun to everyone. So it’s a site that is worth the effort.
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FAQs
Can I bring my dog to Blue Spring State Park?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the park for their safety and the protection of the wildlife. However, you can check out nearby dog-friendly parks where your furry friend can enjoy the outdoors with you.
What should I bring when visiting Blue Spring State Park?
Definitely bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of the park! You should also bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes as the park has a lot of trails to explore. A picnic lunch is also a great idea, so you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Can I swim in the Blue Spring State Park?
Yes, you can! The water is crystal clear and refreshing. However, please note that swimming is only allowed in designated areas for your safety and the protection of the natural ecosystem.
Great article.
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it.