Florida gets its hype from theme parks, gorgeous beaches, electric cities, but if you dig a little, Central Florida has some hidden gems that most people don’t know about. Florida’s natural springs and river systems are some of the most gorgeous places to see in this state. One of which is Ocala Florida’s Silver Springs and Silver River, in Marion County, Florida. We took the paddle boards out one sunny Saturday to see what this place had to offer and it did not disappoint! 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 Rainbow Springs State Park
The area around Rainbow River boomed when the surrounding area was mined for phosphate in the early 20th century. This boom is what initiated the founding of the nearby town of Dunnellon.
In the 1930s, Rainbow Springs became a privately owned theme park that boasted waterfalls, a zoo, a monorail and submarine boats that allowed visitors an underwater view. As Orlando grew and bigger, more modern attractions came to the city, the crowd at Rainbow Springs dissipated and it eventually was closed in 1974.
In the 90s, the park reopened as a state park and today, the Rainbow River is a designated National Natural Landmark. Although the unique attractions no longer exist, you can still explore the trails and see the beautiful man-made waterfalls that were created during the early days of the park. The park overall is 1,472 acres and the spring season is the best time to visit as the azaleas are typically in full bloom.
Exploring Rainbow Springs State Park
We drove to KP Hole and were easily able to park, pay the launch fee of $5 and set off for the day. I bring my own iRocker Stand Up Paddle Board. It only takes about 20 minutes to inflate and its extremely light and portable. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase it’s incredibly durable and is easy to deflate and pop in the trunk when you’re done. It comes with the pump, paddle, skags, leash and a carrying backpack and for the price, its a great quality inflatable SUP!
KP Hole Park: 9435 SW 190th Avenue Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432
KP Hole: Phone Number: (352) 489-3055
We decided to leave one car at Swampy’s Bar and Grille, because the initial plan was to paddle all the way down river and then stop for lunch. However, we ended up getting out of the water at KP Hole and just driving for lunch after, but just know its a great option if you want to paddle down the river and and get out of the water at Swampy’s to get food and some drinks after.
As soon as we started making our way up river, we were lucky enough to see some beautiful wildlife. Beautiful birds drying off on this tree by at the edge of the river, while turtles hung out below. We saw a few otters as well, which I’ve never seen before.
We detoured to this little channel just off the river. The water was incredibly clear and its a nice serene spot to check out. We stopped for sandwiches and enjoyed the peacefulness of this part of Rainbow River. While you’re allowed to take paddleboards and kayaks here, please note the land is private property so just make sure you stay on the water.
We continued onward and enjoyed the sun and beautiful river. As you get closer to the head spring you’ll notice that the water is so incredibly clear you can see just about everything below the surface.
The Head Spring at Rainbow River
The headspring is beautiful, but a popular swimming spot. If you’re hoping for a quiet and peaceful experience, make sure you visit the spring early in the day or during a week day.
The water temperature averages 72 degrees year round and the average depth in this natural swimming area is between 5 and 18 feet so please use caution with children and non-swimmers. There is no lifeguard on duty and swimming is at your own risk.
Rafts, tubes and balls are not allowed in the park for safety reasons, however, swimmers may wear life preservers or use noodles.
The headspring is open from 8am to sunset all year, access is typically $2 and can be found at this address: 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432
Kayak and Canoe Rentals at Rainbow River State Park
We have our own paddleboards and kayak, however you can rent canoes or kayaks at Rainbow River. Rental information can be found here.
Tubing Down Rainbow River
Tubing is a popular activity at Rainbow River, its typically $20 / person and a shuttle takes you back to your starting part where you park your car. Be sure to check tubing rules, fees and the tubing schedule. Hours fluctuate throughout the year and tubing is closes during the winter season beginning in October and reopens in April. Tubing takes place at a different part of the park: 10830 SW 180th Ave Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432
Campgrounds at Rainbow River
The campground is about six miles from the headsprings and provides access to the river. More nature trails wind through the sandhill and oak hammock communities. A camp store offers further amenities for overnight guests. You can find campsite office hours and reserve your campsite here.
Have you been to Rainbow Springs State Park? What activities did you experience here? What did you think? Leave a comment below, email me at Amandameetsworld1@gmail.com and follow me on Instagram at @Amanda_meets_world_
Check out the full video of our day here on Youtube:
