South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Sunday)
Stay cool, socially distanced in nature
This summer, cool off at one of Florida’s many natural water features
It’s summertime in Florida, which means temperatures that can reach well into the 90s and heat indexes that can spike even higher. While only some of Central Florida’s waterparks have reopened amid coronavirus shutdowns, families are likely wondering: What’s a safe way to cool off?
Florida’s natural springs, which number in the hundreds statewide, have always been a popular choice for beating the summer heat. But they seem like an especially appealing choice now when trying to seek outdoor escapes and still practice social distancing.
Many of the state’s natural water features are managed by state parks, while others are situated within national forests or are privately owned. Here are Florida springs worth visiting this summer.
BLUE SPRING STATE PARK
Find a beautiful, spring-fed oasis just 45 minutes north of Orlando at Blue Spring State Park. Pack tubes or snorkeling gear and fight the current up to the spring head before floating lazily back down the spring run. Or free dive down toward the first-magnitude spring that discharges around 100 million gallons of 72-degree water daily.
Though Blue Spring is known for its manatee population in winter, it also makes for a great summer oasis for humans looking to cool off. Admission is $6 per vehicle. Be sure to show up early, especially on weekends, to ensure entry.
Address: 2100 W French Ave. in Orange City
More information: floridastateparks.org
WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK
Just a stone’s throw from Orlando, Wekiwa Springs presents a big, clear natural swimming hole for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Set up blankets or chairs on a large hillside bordering one side of the spring, or find a spot right at the water. Then dive in and explore the second-magnitude spring pumping out 43 million gallons of water per day.
Admission is $6 per vehicle. Be sure to show up early, especially on weekends and holidays, to ensure entry to the park.
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Circle in Apopka
More information: floridastateparks.org
DE LEON SPRINGS STATE PARK
De Leon Springs is named after the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, even though there are no known records linking him to the spring. It was once called “Acuera” by the Mayaca Indians, meaning “healing waters.”
The spring-fed swimming hole gives visitors a chance to cool off by splashing around in or diving down into 72-degree water. During your visit, you can also make your own pancakes at the Sugar Mill Restaurant.