Wekiwa Springs State Park is a natural gem just outside of Orlando, where crystal-clear water flows from deep within Florida’s aquifer at a constant 72 °F year-round. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day, but also a peaceful escape for nature lovers in every season. Beyond swimming in the turquoise spring, you can paddle along the scenic Wekiva River, explore shaded forest trails, or simply relax on a blanket beneath the towering oaks and pines. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending the whole day, Wekiwa Springs invites you to slow down and discover the serene side of Florida.
If you’re planning a longer spring-hopping trip around Central Florida, our Florida hot springs guide is a good place to start.
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What to Know Before You Go to Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park is a day-use park that’s especially popular during the warmer months when visitors come for a refreshing swim in the 72 °F spring. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating in the calm spring run. You can also rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the peaceful Wekiva River.
The park offers picnic tables and pavilions with grills, restrooms, and outdoor showers. If you’re planning a larger gathering, it’s best to reserve a pavilion in advance. Pets are not allowed in the swimming area, and alcohol and glass containers are prohibited throughout the park.
Wekiwa Springs has a limited capacity and closes entry once the parking lot is full — especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is highly recommended. From March through September 2025, the park also requires an online reservation for day-use entry, which must be made ahead of time.
How to Get to Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park is located about 17 minutes north of Orlando in the town of Apopka. The easiest way to get there is by car – take Interstate 4 to Exit 94, follow State Road 434, and then turn onto Wekiwa Springs Road which leads directly to the main entrance parking lot.
There is no direct public transportation to the park, so having your own vehicle is the most convenient option. If you’re staying nearby, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft can get you there, but driving yourself offers more flexibility to explore the surrounding natural areas.
The park has a limited capacity and will close entry once it’s full, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends and holidays.
Best Time to Visit Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park is open year-round, but it truly shines from late spring through early fall, when the weather is warm and the constant 72 °F water offers a refreshing escape. Summer draws the largest crowds, especially families enjoying swimming and picnicking by the water.
If you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit for a weekday morning or during the shoulder seasons like April or October. In winter, the park is still open, but the water can feel too chilly for long swims — making it better suited for hiking or paddling along the Wekiva River.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs at Wekiwa Springs
Wekiwa Springs State Park is open every day of the year from 8:00 AM until sunset. You can come for a quick morning dip or spend the whole day enjoying the peaceful setting.
Admission is straightforward. 6 dollars per vehicle with up to eight people, 4 dollars if you’re driving solo, and 2 dollars for pedestrians or cyclists. Payment is made at a self-service station, so it’s a good idea to bring exact change.
From March through September 2025 an online reservation is required for day-use entry. It’s free, but without it you won’t be allowed in. Make sure to secure your spot before you head out and avoid any disappointment at the gate.
For more information, you can check the official website.
Where to Stay Nearby Wekiwa Springs
You can stay overnight inside Wekiwa Springs State Park at the campground located within the park. There are sites for tents, RVs, and even equestrian camping for visitors with horses. The campground is set in a pine forest and offers basic facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. Reservations are recommended, as spots often fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
If you prefer more comfort or a roof over your head, head to Apopka, a quiet, friendly city with a small selection of motels and inns just a few minutes from the park entrance.
For a wider choice of hotels, dining, and entertainment, head to Orlando, about a 17-minute drive away. Orlando offers everything from simple hotels to luxury resorts, and its location gives you access not only to Wekiwa but also to other natural spots and famous attractions.
Recommended places to stay nearby Wekiwa Springs
Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando-Apopka
A comfortable hotel just 13 minutes from the park, perfect for those who want Wekiwa within easy reach. It offers spacious rooms, a pool for cooling off after a day by the water, and breakfast included. The location is peaceful yet close to shops and restaurants in Apopka, so you have everything you need nearby.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando Altamonte Springs/Maitland
A modern and spacious suite hotel about 9 minutes drive from Wekiwa. Each suite has a separate living area, which you’ll appreciate after an active day. Guests praise its cleanliness, comfortable beds, and the option to use the indoor pool and fitness center.
You can explore more nearby accommodations and book directly through the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Wekiwa Springs
After a day at Wekiwa Springs, there’s no need to rush home. Right next to the park flows the Wekiva River, where you can rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy a peaceful paddle along lush, green banks. Along the way, you might spot herons, turtles, or even a manatee.
If hiking is more your style, head to Rock Springs Run State Reserve, which offers miles of trails for both hikers and cyclists. History and small-town lovers will enjoy a trip to Mount Dora, a charming town about 36 minutes away known for its antique shops, cafés, and seasonal festivals.
And if you’re staying in the area a bit longer, make time for Blue Spring State Park, which we mentioned earlier, and which is one of Florida’s best spots to see manatees in the winter.
If you want to enjoy a river adventure without the hassle of planning, you can join an organized kayak or canoe tour with a local guide who will take you through the most scenic sections of the river and show you hidden spots.
Other Hot Springs Nearby Wekiwa Springs
Around Wekiwa Springs State Park, you’ll find several other refreshing spots perfect for day trips from Orlando. Just north of here, Blue Spring State Park is a winter favorite thanks to its manatee sightings and calm, clear water. If you want a gentle float through bright turquoise water, Kelly Park Rock Springs offers a cool, spring-fed run shaded by palms and oaks.
Farther north inside Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs both offer wide swimming basins, forest trails, and that classic Central Florida “jungle spring” feel.