Blue Spring State Park is one of the most popular freshwater parks in Florida. Located in Orange City, it’s famous for its crystal-clear 73°F spring waters that attract hundreds of manatees during the winter months. The park is a haven for nature lovers, snorkelers, paddleboarders, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape along the St. Johns River.
If you’re planning a longer spring-hopping trip, our Florida hot springs guide offers a full overview of the state’s clearest and most popular freshwater spots.
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What Should You Know Before Going to Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a connection with nature. The spring maintains a constant temperature of around 73°F year-round, making it a pleasant spot for swimming during the warmer months. However, from mid-November through March, all water activities in the spring and spring run are suspended to protect the manatees that migrate here in large numbers during winter.
The park itself remains open year-round and features well-maintained trails, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and rentals for kayaks and paddleboards. Snorkeling is allowed outside of manatee season. Kids will enjoy the playground, while adults can relax and enjoy abundant wildlife viewing. Pets are allowed on a leash, and alcohol is prohibited.
How to Get to Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is located at Orange City, about a 40-minute drive north of Orlando and 1 hour west of Daytona Beach. The easiest and most convenient way to reach the park is by car — it’s just a short detour from Interstate I‑4.
There is ample free parking available for both day visitors and overnight guests. Public transportation options are limited in the area, so if you’re not driving yourself, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are available from nearby towns such as DeLand or Sanford.
Best Time to Visit Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is open all year, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re hoping to experience. For those interested in seeing manatees, the winter months from mid-November through March are the most rewarding. During this time, hundreds of manatees gather in the spring, but note that water access is restricted to protect them.
If you’re coming to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard, it’s best to visit between spring and fall. The warm weather makes the cool water feel refreshing, and you’ll often find smaller crowds compared to winter. Summer weekends can get busy, so arriving early in the day is recommended.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs at Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park is open daily from 8:00 AM until sundown, all year long. Even during manatee season, when swimming is restricted, the park stays open for walking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.
The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for two to eight people. If you arrive alone by car, the price is $4. Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, or anyone riding with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass pay $2.
Some activities such as boat tours, kayak rentals, or lodging may involve separate charges. Be sure to check the official park website for the latest information before your visit.
Where to Stay Nearby Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park offers a range of on-site lodging options, including six air-conditioned cabins, 51 pet-friendly campsites, and access to nature just steps from the spring. Cabins are nestled under shady oak trees and include basic amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, and screened porches. Campsites are suitable for both tents and RVs, with hookups for electricity and water, picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby restrooms. Reservations are required and fill up quickly, especially during manatee season and holiday weekends.
If on-site accommodations are unavailable or you’re looking for more amenities, the nearby towns of Orange City and DeLand offer plenty of lodging options, including affordable motels, cozy inns, and full-service hotels.
Recommended stays nearby Blue Spring State Park
Orange City Motel
Located just an eight-minute drive from the park entrance in Orange City, a small, quiet town known for its friendly atmosphere and local diners, this budget-friendly option offers clean, simple rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, and free parking. A practical choice for travelers who want to stay close to the spring.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites DeLand South
About 10 minutes away by car in DeLand, a charming city with a lively historic downtown, boutique shops, and cafés, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a free hot breakfast, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Ideal for families or couples looking for extra comfort and convenience.
You can explore more places to stay and book directly through the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Blue Spring State Park
After exploring the spring, the St. Johns River Nature Cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy the surrounding nature. The guided tour offers views of manatees, birds, and cypress wetlands while floating along one of Florida’s most scenic rivers.
For those who prefer something more active, kayaking or paddleboarding is a great option when water activities are allowed. Equipment can be rented directly on-site. If you’re visiting in winter, the boardwalk along the spring run offers a perfect place to view manatees without disturbing them.
Nearby towns like DeLand and Sanford are worth a stop as well. DeLand features a charming downtown with boutiques, galleries, and cafés, while Sanford offers a historic riverwalk, breweries, and a small zoo perfect for families.
If you’re interested, you can check available boat or kayaking tours.
Other Springs Nearby Blue Spring State Park
Near Blue Spring State Park, several other natural springs offer great day trips. South of here, Wekiwa Springsprovides a bright, shallow swimming area and peaceful kayaking routes shaded by forest.
About 35 minutes west, Kelly Park Rock Springs is known for its gentle, spring-fed run where visitors can float through clear water surrounded by palms and limestone.
Farther northwest inside Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs both offer exceptional clarity, shaded trails, and classic Florida scenery — ideal stops if you’re exploring more of Central Florida’s spring country.