Orlando, Florida, is a travel destination across the globe for the exciting attractions, lovable characters, and thrilling rides, but there is so much more to experience in Florida. But outside of the amusement parks and frenzied commotion of International Drive are gorgeous natural gems of Florida that wouldn’t believe exist right here in this state. Blue Springs State Park in Orange City, FL is one of them. A refreshing watering hole in the summer and a manatee haven in the winter, this is magical spot to check out year round. This page has affiliate links and if you purchase something from this page I will receive a small commission at no cost to you. I donate 5% of this blog’s revenue to the Environmental Defense Fund, so you help donate to a great cause if you click on any affiliate links or ads that may be on this page!
History of Blue Springs State Park
The early days of Blue Springs began when Louis Thursby purchased Blue Spring in 1856 and the location became a hub for steamboats; carrying tourists and goods to Jacksonville.
In 1971, an episode of The Underwater World of Jacques Cousteau was filmed at Blue Springs, bringing attention to the manatees that inhabit the spring during the winter months. It was this documentary that influenced the state’s decision to purchase the land.
Exploring Blue Springs State Park
Blue Springs is a unique Florida state park in that its worth visiting anytime throughout the year. In the summer its a beautiful refreshing place to swim and explore, but from the months of November to March, Blue Springs is closed exclusively for the hundreds of manatees that harbor in the warm spring water in the winter time.
We decided to take a trip up to Blue Springs State Park to check out the manatees. Turns out we picked a good day, because 169 manatees were counted in the spring that day.
We parked and followed the wooded path towards the spring. It was a beautiful wooded trail overlooking crystal clear water shaded with gorgeous tall trees. We went in mid January and were greeted with a friendly sea cow right away directly under the boardwalk. Gazing around you will see them just milling around, soaking in the sun and enjoying the warm waters of the spring. From Mid November to the end of March, all water activates are closed so the gentle giants can have the spot for themselves.
If you continue walking all the way down towards the river, you can pay $30 for a two hour boat ride on the river.
Enjoy a Picnic at Blue Springs
You can pack a picnic and enjoy the Florida weather on one of the picnic tables overlooking the spring and river accompanied with the view of the 1800s built Thursby house in the background. There are also covered pavilions equipped with grills located at each of the two separate designated picnic areas. One of which has a large covered barbecue grill.
Visit the Thursby House: A Historic Relic at Blue Springs
Louis Thursby, one of the area’s first European settlers, came here with his family in 1857 with the expectation that settling on close proximity to the river would be profitable. Anticipating a future in citrus, Thursby built an orange grove and a pier for passing steamships.
The Thursby house is still preserved as it looked at the turn of the 20th century. The Thursby house is currently a museum and interpretive center. From steamship to railroad and candles to electric bulbs, Blue Spring State Park is a time capsule for a bygone era.
Self Guided Walking Trails at Blue Springs
We decided to watch the manatees a bit longer and explore the lush hammock of the 3.6 miles of the Pine Island Trail along the St. Johns River. Its a beautifully preserved path, a very easy trail and there are even a few benches and places to stop and enjoy the view along the way.
Summer Activities at Blue Springs State Park
Paddling – Explore Blue Spring Run and the St. Johns River and embark on a beautiful paddle adventure. Canoe and kayak rentals can be procured at Blue Springs Adventures or you can opt for a guided tour.
Tubing – The only real way to experience Florida in the summer is to tube down a cool river enjoying the warm sunshine. Enter the tube run at the upper entry for about an eighth of a mile until the main swim dock. Tube rentals are available through Blue Springs Adventures or at 833-953-2583.
Swimming or Snorkeling is a great way to cool off in the summer by taking a dip in the spring run
Have you been to Blue Springs? Have you seen the manatees or enjoyed any of the water activities? Leave a comment below and let me know what you thought!
