Vortex Springs is a popular freshwater recreation site located in Ponce de Leon, Florida. Known for its crystal-clear but chilly 68°F spring water, it’s a favorite among scuba divers, snorkelers, and families seeking a cool, outdoor escape. With diving platforms, slides, rope swings, and rentals like kayaks and tubes, the spring blends adventure with relaxation in a lush, natural setting.
If you’re exploring more thermal and natural springs in the state, check the full Florida Hot Springs Guide.
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What Should You Know Before Going to Vortex Springs
Vortex Springs is a family-friendly recreation park known for diving, swimming, and water fun. The spring stays at a cold 68°F year-round, so wetsuits are recommended, especially outside summer.
There’s a dedicated diving area for certified divers, plus slides, rope swings, and docks for casual swimmers. Proper swimwear is required, and waivers must be signed before entering the water.
You can rent tubes, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear on-site. No alcohol allowed, and pets are restricted to certain areas. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, and shaded spots throughout the park.
How to Get to Vortex Springs
Vortex Springs is located in Ponce de Leon, Florida, just off Interstate 10, making it easy to reach by car.
It’s about a one-hour drive from Destin or about 90 minutes from Tallahassee. There’s free on-site parking for day visitors and overnight guests.
Public transportation is not available, but rideshares like Uber and Lyft may operate in nearby towns. If you’re staying in the area, it’s best to drive.
Best Time to Visit Vortex Springs
Vortex Springs is open year-round, but the best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when the weather is warm enough to balance the cold 68°F spring water.
Summer weekends are the busiest, especially with families and divers, while weekdays offer a quieter experience. If you plan to dive or rent gear, arriving early is a good idea to beat the crowds.
Fall and winter visits are possible but less common due to the cold water and cooler air wetsuits are a must during these months.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs at Vortex Springs
Vortex Springs is open daily year-round, with hours that vary slightly by season. During the summer, the park operates Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In the winter months, hours are shorter—Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Friday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
General admission for adults is $15, while children (12 and under) pay $10. Kids under 4 enter free. If you’re diving, a $25 diver’s pass includes full park access and use of diving platforms and the cavern area. Military and first responders receive a 10% discount.
All guests must sign a waiver before entering, and passes are valid until sundown. Only overnight guests may re-enter the spring after hours.
For more information, please check the official website.
Where to Stay Nearby Vortex Springs
Vortex Springs offers on-site lodging options, including rustic cabins, RV sites, and tent camping, allowing guests to stay just steps from the spring. Cabins range from simple bunkhouse-style rooms to larger units with private bathrooms and kitchens. Tent sites are available throughout the wooded areas, with picnic tables and fire rings at select spots. RV hookups support both 30 and 50 amp service, and reservations are strongly encouraged, especially during weekends and holiday periods.
If on-site options are fully booked or you’re looking for additional amenities, nearby towns like DeFuniak Springs or Ponce de Leon offer a variety of accommodations, including motels, inns, and vacation rentals.
Recommended stays nearby Vortex Springs
Ponce De Leon Motel
Just a 10-minute drive from the springs, this budget-friendly motel offers simple, clean rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free parking. It’s a practical choice for travelers looking to stay close to the action without breaking the bank.
Holiday Inn Express DeFuniak Springs
Located about 25 minutes away, this modern hotel features spacious rooms with premium bedding, free breakfast, and a 24-hour fitness center. Guests also enjoy an outdoor pool and easy access to nearby restaurants and shops.
You can explore more nearby accommodations and book directly through the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Vortex Springs
After a day of swimming or diving at Vortex Springs, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore. Just minutes away, Ponce de Leon Springs State Park is a hidden gem where you can enjoy nature trails, picnic areas, and another refreshing spring for a relaxing dip in a natural setting.
If you’re up for a short drive, head to DeFuniak Springs, known for its historic downtown, charming antique shops, and the perfectly round Lake DeFuniak, one of only two naturally circular lakes in the world. It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk or photo stop.
For a bit more adventure, Florida Caverns State Park is about an hour north, offering guided cave tours through stunning underground limestone formations perfect for combining with a Vortex trip if you’re spending the weekend in the region.
And if you’re continuing your journey through the South or heading toward the Gulf Coast, don’t miss a Hollywood open-top bus tour in Los Angeles, where you can cruise past celebrity homes, iconic film locations, and the Hollywood Sign. It’s a fun, laid-back way to end your road trip in style.
Other Hot Springs Nearby Vortex Springs
If you’re interested in seeing more springs in the Florida Panhandle, a few good options sit close by. Ponce De Leon Springs is the nearest one, known for its clear pool and quiet park setting.
Morrison Springs is another easy stop — a deep, blue spring popular with divers but also great for swimming. For something a bit more natural, Cypress Springs is only accessible by boat or paddle, but the water and surroundings make it one of the prettiest springs in the region.
You can also check out Pitt and Sylvan Springs, a simple, quiet spot along Holmes Creek that’s good for a short stop or a cool dip.