Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Florida, offers a picturesque setting for picnickers seeking a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its crystal-clear springs, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, the park provides a serene and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy a leisurely meal or snack.
Picnic Areas and Amenities
Wekiwa Springs State Park boasts several designated picnic areas, each equipped with tables and grills, allowing visitors to prepare and enjoy their meals in the great outdoors. These picnic areas are strategically located near the springs, offering stunning views and a tranquil ambiance.
Picnic Pavilions
The park features several picnic pavilions that can accommodate larger groups or families. These covered structures provide shade and protection from the sun, making them an ideal choice for group gatherings or special events.
Grills and Charcoal
For those who prefer to grill their own food, the park provides charcoal grills at the picnic areas. Visitors can bring their own charcoal and cooking utensils to enjoy a classic outdoor barbecue experience.
Concession Stand
In addition to the picnic areas, Wekiwa Springs State Park operates a concession stand that is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This on-site facility offers a variety of snacks, cold drinks, and grill items, such as hot dogs and hamburgers, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to pack their own food.
Accessibility and Camping
Wekiwa Springs State Park is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors. The picnic areas and restrooms are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park’s amenities.
Accessible Facilities
The park’s picnic areas and restrooms are equipped with features that cater to visitors with disabilities, such as paved pathways, designated parking spaces, and accessible picnic tables and grills.
Camping
For those who wish to extend their stay, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a campground with various amenities, including water and electrical hook-ups, fire rings with grills, and picnic tables. Some campsites even have sewer hook-ups, and a dump station is available on-site.
Hours and Fees
Wekiwa Springs State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year, providing ample opportunities for visitors to enjoy the picnic areas and other recreational activities.
Admission Fees
The park charges an admission fee of $6 per vehicle (up to eight people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles, and $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, and extra passengers. These fees help maintain the park’s facilities and support conservation efforts.
Additional Activities
While picnicking is a popular activity at Wekiwa Springs State Park, the park offers a variety of other recreational opportunities for visitors to explore.
Swimming in the Springs
The park’s crystal-clear springs are a major draw, allowing visitors to cool off and enjoy the refreshing waters during the warmer months.
Hiking and Paddling
Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails or venture out on the Wekiwa River by renting canoes or kayaks from the on-site rental facility.
Overall, Wekiwa Springs State Park provides a picturesque and accessible setting for picnickers, offering a range of amenities and activities to cater to the diverse interests of outdoor enthusiasts.
References:
– TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Picnic in the park – Review of Wekiwa Springs State Park, Apopka, FL. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g29171-d145739-r273478220-Wekiwa_Springs_State_Park-Apopka_Florida.html
– Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Wekiwa Springs – Experiences & Amenities | Florida State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/wekiwa-springs-state-park/experiences-amenities
– Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Hours & Fees | Florida State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/wekiwa-springs-state-park/hours-fees
– Original Orlando Tours. (n.d.). Swim Picnic at Wekiwa’s Natural Springs – Original Orlando Tours. Retrieved from https://www.originalorlando.com/st_tour/swim-wekiwa-springs/
– Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Wekiwa Springs State Park | Florida State Parks. Retrieved from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/wekiwa-springs-state-park/.