15 Best Springs Near Orlando Florida

What’s more relaxing and revitalizing than a swim in natural spring waters? If you’ve done it before, you know what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, then you definitely must try it. One dip and you’ll be hooked.

But did you know that Florida is a magical place that has tons of natural springs, especially in and around Orlando? That’s right! The natural aquifer is the source of these therapeutic waters just below the ground. No wonder Native Americans, local Floridians, and visitors alike have been coming to these beautiful places for so long.

In this article you’ll find the best springs near Orlando to help you spend less time researching where to go and more time relaxing in nature’s beauty.

1. DeLeon Springs

There’s so much to do and experience at DeLeon Springs, which is why it’s one of the coolest springs to visit near Orlando.

Swim in the natural spring water, paddle around in a kayak or canoe, or even explore nature on the walking paths. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat and learn about the history of the area at the Sugar Mill Restaurant.

Located about an hour north of Orlando, DeLeon Springs State Park is a perfect place to venture any time of year.

LEARN MORE: 12 Best Beaches Near Orlando

2. Blue Spring State Park

If you want to spot a manatee, then definitely head to Blue Spring State Park—less than an hour from Orlando.

These gentle giants love the warm water of the springs in Florida, especially in colder months. So it’s best to go during the winter months (peak season is December to February) if you want to see manatees.

Blue Spring State Park is a great place to visit any time of year, which is why it’s one of the most popular state parks in Florida.

With a natural swimming pool, kayak rentals, gift shop, and ice cream parlor, you’re all set. (It’s also on our list of best day trips from Orlando!)

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Blue Spring State Park is a manatee favorite.

Blue Spring State Park is your perfect one day adventure from Orlando

3. Alexander Springs

Alexander Springs has just about anything you’re looking for in a natural spring—from swimming to canoeing, hiking, and even scuba diving.

And it’s only a 1.5 hour drive from Orlando into the Ocala National Forest.

As one of the widest springs in Florida, there’s tons of room to swim. As the pool has a natural sandy slope, it’s easy to ease yourself into the spring waters that are always 72 degrees.

4. Juniper Springs

Juniper Springs is another one of the fantastic springs near Orlando in the Ocala National Forest.

Depending on traffic, the drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to get there. But once you’re there, it’s totally worth it.

Swimming, hiking, or canoeing down Juniper Run, you can’t go wrong. If you’re looking to spend some serious time at Juniper Springs, camping is the way to go.

Explore more pretty springs in Ocala!

Juniper Springs in Ocala National Forest is just the right place to relax and refresh

5. Ginnie Springs

Ginnie Springs is where adults come to have fun, relax, and enjoy the spring waters.

And it’s only about a 2 hour drive from Orlando, making it one of the best weekend getaways from Orlando full of grown-up fun.

Ginnie is so much fun that camping is super popular. I mean, when you’re in paradise why leave, right?

Enjoy the blue spring waters at Ginnie by taking a dip, paddling around, or just chilling out on an inner tube. It’s all good!

Ginnie Springs also has some of the best cave scuba diving in Florida.

6. Weeki Wachee Springs

Folks have been raving about Weeki Wachee Springs State Park for decades, and it’s obvious why. This fabulous place is like no other.

Here you can enjoy kayaking in the natural spring waters, get your adrenaline pumping flying down waterslides, and even see mermaids putting on a show.

And you have a great chance to see manatees at Weeki Wachee from November through April, with peak season for manatees from December to February.

No matter what you’re looking for or what pace you’re running at, Weeki Wachee Springs is one of the best springs close to Orlando and it’s only 1.5 hours away.

How adorable are baby manatees? Now you’ve got another great reason for a winter vacation to Florida!

7. Wekiwa Springs State Park

There’s so much to do at Wekiwa Spring State Park, and it’s super close to Orlando—it takes only about 15 minutes to get there, depending on traffic.

You’ll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city (and theme parks).

Explore nature hiking the trails, or simply relax in the revitalizing spring waters. It’s no wonder Wekiwa is one of the favorite springs around Orlando.

LEARN MORE: 15 Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks!

8. Rainbow Springs State Park

If you’re looking to float down the Rainbow River, then Rainbow Springs is the perfect place.

The drive only takes 1.5 – 2 hours to get there from Orlando.

You can rent a canoe, kayak, or even an inner tube to travel downstream. There’s a convenient shuttle service to get you back to your starting point.

Perfect, right?!

9. Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park has been a hotspot for decades, and it’s no wonder why.

You can do just about anything from glass-bottom boat tours to canoe and kayak rentals. If you’re looking to stay dry, check out the on-site museum and historical Cracker Village—a replica 19th century pioneer settlement.

To enjoy all of this, it’s less than two hours’ drive north of Orlando, so it’s a trip that’s definitely doable.

10. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

Get an up-close view of Florida wildlife at Homosassa Springs.

Located only 1.5 hours northwest of Orlando, this state park is an educational experience.

Although swimming is not something you’d be able to do at Homosassa, walks throughout the park allow you to see animals like panthers, alligators, cougars, wolves, and bobcats.

And you can see the ocean potato—that’s another name for the Florida manatees!

Homosassa Springs is one of the largest springs in Florida, and it’s a favorite winter spot for manatees, who show up in large numbers for the warm spring waters.

11. Rock Springs Kelly Park

The lazy river is the best at Rock Springs Kelly Park.

While you’re floating down the crystal clear waters, it’s like you’ll melt away all the cares of the world. Magical, right?

Yup! And the best part is that it’s only 30 minutes north of downtown Orlando.

So, no matter if you’re a local or in town for vacation you should definitely check it out. It’s seriously one of the best springs really close to Orlando to ride the lazy river.

12. Three Sisters Springs (Crystal River)

Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River is a great place to paddle around on the water (rentals available in Crystal River) or explore the natural beauty of the surrounding land.

Take the shuttle service departing from the Three Sisters Springs Center to enjoy the boardwalk on Three Sisters Springs, the Visitor Center and Gift Shop, Hunter Springs Park, South Citrus Ave, and Heritage Village.

And yes, manatees frequent the Three Sisters Springs too in the winter months, so that’s another reason to visit Crystal River.

Crystal River is also on my list of 12 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

Manatee Crystal River Florida Three Sisters Springs.

The manatee is a gentle giant that loves the warm waters of Florida’s springs

13. Silver Glen Springs

Silver Glen Springs is a beautiful natural spring and an active archaeological site.

Sacred to Native Americans, this spring is a great place to enjoy the therapeutic waters. The large swimming area is perfect for taking a dip.

Set in the Ocala National Forest, hikes at Silver Glen Springs are an excellent activity when you’re ready to dry off.

The drive will take less than two hours to get there from Orlando.

14. Salt Springs

The drive is less than two hours from Orlando to Salt Springs, which makes a day trip there totally doable.

You can literally feel the minerals in the water that is rich with potassium, magnesium, and sodium. It’s a glorious feeling to float in the 74-degree-temperature spring waters.

It’s no wonder folks have been coming to Salt Springs since the early 1900s—it’s definitely one of the best springs in Florida.

Salt Springs Ocala is the perfect place for soaking in the mineral springs and snorkeling

15. Devil’s Den

Take a trip into Devil’s Den. All you need is a snorkel or scuba gear…and a reservation!

This is a super cool experience that’s a must-do. Get down into the spring and explore the beautiful waters that have been here since the dawn of time (or so it feels).

So, if you’re good with a snorkel or a certified diver, just be sure to make a reservation and you’re set. Oh! And it’s less than two hours from Orlando.

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Final Thoughts

As you can see, there is no shortage of beautiful springs near Orlando. No matter if you’re a local or visitor, definitely check out these awesome spots; you won’t be disappointed.