Blue Spring State Park, located near St. Augustine, Florida, is a popular destination for state park touring enthusiasts. The park is known for its refreshing 72-degree waters and is home to hundreds of manatees during the winter months. Visitors can view these gentle giants from the spring’s overlooks, a rare and unique experience.
Getting to Blue Spring State Park from St. Augustine
To get to Blue Spring State Park from St. Augustine, the fastest and most cost-effective way is to drive, taking approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes and costing between $14 and $21. Alternatively, traveling from Blue Spring State Park to St. Augustine Beach takes just 1½ hours, with the cheapest option costing only $17.
Here’s a breakdown of the travel options:
| Travel Option | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Driving from St. Augustine to Blue Spring State Park | 1 hour 28 minutes | $14 – $21 |
| Driving from Blue Spring State Park to St. Augustine Beach | 1 hour 30 minutes | $17 |
Park Hours and Fees
The park is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. until sundown. During periods of high visitation, visitors may experience long lines to enter the park, and it may temporarily close due to reaching capacity. Closures can last several hours, but visitors with camping or boat tour reservations will be admitted while it is closed.
Entrance fees for the park are:
- $6 per vehicle (two to eight people)
- $4 for a single-occupant vehicle
- $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, or passengers in a vehicle with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass
Camping fees are $24 per night plus tax, plus a nonrefundable $6.70 reservation fee and a $7 nightly utility fee for RVs. Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older or hold a Social Security disability award certificate or a 100% disability award certificate from the federal government are eligible for a 50% discount on base campsite fees. Cabin fees are $95 per night plus tax, with a two-night minimum stay required.
Activities and Wildlife at Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring State Park offers various activities for visitors, including:
- Hiking along the spring run or on the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail
- Launching a canoe or kayak
- Taking a guided river boat cruise
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, wading birds, ospreys, eagles, and kingfishers.
Manatee Sightings at Blue Spring State Park
In 2023, the park recorded a record 729 wintering manatees, a significant increase from the 14 manatees tracked in 1970, demonstrating the positive impact of conservation measures and manatee protection efforts. Visitors can view these gentle giants from the spring’s overlooks, a rare and unique experience.
Planning Your Visit to Blue Spring State Park
Visitors are advised to plan their visit, as the park can reach capacity during high visitation periods, and long lines may be experienced. It’s important to check the park’s website or call ahead to ensure the park is open and accessible during your desired visit time.
Conclusion
Blue Spring State Park is a must-visit destination for state park touring enthusiasts. With its refreshing waters, abundant wildlife, and the opportunity to view manatees, the park offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to hike, paddle, or simply relax, Blue Spring State Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.