A Tank Away

Swim with the Manatees

IS

If you have lived in Florida, then you know that we only experience two seasons here – hot and hotter!! You were lucky if you lived on the east or west coast because the beach was only a short drive away. Those of us that lived in Central Florida may not have been in close proximity to a beach, but we had something better…natural springs!! Florida is home to an estimated 600+ beautiful, fresh water springs that maintain an average temperature of about 72 degrees year-round. If you’re lucky, you may get the opportunity to swim with manatees!! Aside from swimming, the parks offer several different activities including, but not limited to, tubing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The rules, activities, and entrance fees at each park vary, so I encourage you to first research the spring of your choice.

I have taken a dip in Ginnie Springs (High Springs), Poe Springs (High Springs), Blue Springs (Bronson and High Springs), Manatee Springs (Chiefland), and Wakulla Springs (Wakulla Springs). A list of some other popular springs can be found below.

  • Ichetucknee Springs (Fort White)
  • Rainbow Springs (Dunnellon)
  • Silver Springs (Ocala)
  • Fanning Springs (Fanning Springs)
  • Weeki Wachee Springs (Spring Hill)
  • Homosassa Springs (Homosassa)

If you want to make it an all-day affair, bring food and drinks because there are pavilions, grills, and picnic tables at each site. The pavilions are available on a “first come, first serve basis.” However, there may be a rental fee associated with use of the pavilions. Don’t be surprised if you notice tents and RVs at the park. A lot of the parks contain campsites for those that want to become one with mother nature. For those that aren’t as adventurous, cabin rentals are available. However, you are required to stay a minimum of two (2) nights. Be sure to let me know how your trip goes!!

Swim with the Manatees

IS

If you have lived in Florida, then you know that we only experience two seasons here – hot and hotter!! You were lucky if you lived on the east or west coast because the beach was only a short drive away. Those of us that lived in Central Florida may not have been in close proximity to a beach, but we had something better…natural springs!! Florida is home to an estimated 600+ beautiful, fresh water springs that maintain an average temperature of about 72 degrees year-round. If you’re lucky, you may get the opportunity to swim with manatees!! Aside from swimming, the parks offer several different activities including, but not limited to, tubing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The rules, activities, and entrance fees at each park vary, so I encourage you to first research the spring of your choice.

I have taken a dip in Ginnie Springs (High Springs), Poe Springs (High Springs), Blue Springs (Bronson and High Springs), Manatee Springs (Chiefland), and Wakulla Springs (Wakulla Springs). A list of some other popular springs can be found below.

  • Ichetucknee Springs (Fort White)
  • Rainbow Springs (Dunnellon)
  • Silver Springs (Ocala)
  • Fanning Springs (Fanning Springs)
  • Weeki Wachee Springs (Spring Hill)
  • Homosassa Springs (Homosassa)

If you want to make it an all-day affair, bring food and drinks because there are pavilions, grills, and picnic tables at each site. The pavilions are available on a “first come, first serve basis.” However, there may be a rental fee associated with use of the pavilions. Don’t be surprised if you notice tents and RVs at the park. A lot of the parks contain campsites for those that want to become one with mother nature. For those that aren’t as adventurous, cabin rentals are available. However, you are required to stay a minimum of two (2) nights. Be sure to let me know how your trip goes!!

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