South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Sunday)
SPRINGS
Admission is $6 per car. Address: 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd. in De Leon Springs
More information: floridastateparks.org
RAINBOW SPRINGS STATE PARK
Representing the fourth-largest spring in Florida, Rainbow Springs produces 490 million gallons of water daily, which spills out into the Rainbow River and Withlacoochee River. Swim in the cool head springs or relax on a tube while floating down the spring run.
Alternatively, enjoy the spring waters and sights of flora and fauna aboard a canoe or kayak. Admission is $2 per person. Address: 19158 SW 81st Place Road in Dunnellon
More information: floridastateparks.org
JUNIPER SPRINGS
Situated within the Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs is a hidden oasis for swimming, picnicking and camping built up for recreation by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Visitors can also check out the old mill house, which used to provide electricity for the campground.
For those wishing to see more of the Juniper spring run than swimming can allow, take to the waters in a kayak or canoe for a 7-mile paddle. Admission is $5.50 per person.
Address: 26701 State Road 40 in Astor
More information: fs.usda.gov
ALEXANDER SPRINGS
Visitors to Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest can enjoy a first-magnitude spring with 72-degree waters for swimming and recreation. The broad, shallow spring basin makes the swimming area easily accessible for visitors of all ages.
Picnicking is another good way to enjoy Alexander Springs while not actively splashing around. Additionally, kayaking and canoeing are popular activities along the spring run. Hiking and biking are also available. Admission is $6 per person.
Address: 49525 County Road 445 in Altoona
More information: fs.usda.gov
SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK
Long known for its glass-bottom boat tours, Silver Springs has been a popular recreation area for visitors from far and wide for more than a century. Gaze down and see fish and turtles swimming below the boat on the popular tours.
Swimming is not allowed in the park due to the springs’ alligator
Ichetucknee Springs features a three-hour tube run and crystal-clear spring water.
Alexander Springs is a first-magnitude spring within Ocala National Forest.
Visitors enjoy the spring head and natural swimming area at De Leon Springs State Park in 2019.
Recreationists take in the cool waters of Juniper Springs in Ocala National Forest.
The glass-bottom boat tour is a popular attraction at Silver Springs State Park.