Blue Springs State Park is a popular destination for state park touring enthusiasts, known for its refreshing 72-degree waters and manatee population. The park is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. until sundown, offering a variety of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Admission and Fees
Accessing the Blue Springs State Park entrance comes with a few fees:
- $6 per vehicle (for 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
During periods of high visitation, the park may reach capacity and temporarily close, with closures lasting several hours. Visitors with camping or boat tour reservations will be admitted, but pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed to enter until the park reopens.
Camping and Cabins
For those looking to extend their stay, Blue Spring State Park offers camping and cabin rentals:
- Camping costs $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 who hold a Social Security disability award certificate or a 100% disability award certificate from the federal government are permitted to receive a 50% discount on current base campsite fees.
- Cabins are available for rent at $95 per night plus tax, with a two-night minimum stay required.
Activities and Amenities
The Blue Springs State Park entrance provides access to a variety of activities and amenities:
Hiking and Trails
- Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty by hiking along the spring run or on the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail.
Watersports
- Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, with visitors able to launch their own boats or rent them from the park.
- Guided river boat cruises are also available for those who want to experience the park from the water.
- Tubing is available during the summer months, with single tubes starting at $7 for the first hour and double tubes starting at $9.96.
Wildlife Viewing
- Blue Spring State Park is home to a variety of wading birds, ospreys, eagles, and kingfishers, making it a prime destination for birdwatching.
- During the winter months, the park is a designated Manatee Refuge, and these gentle creatures are most prominent in the spring.
Amenities
- Pets are permitted in designated areas but must be leashed and are not allowed in the water or on tour boats.
- Alcohol is not permitted in the park or on rentals.
Seasonal Considerations
The availability of certain activities and amenities at the Blue Springs State Park entrance can vary depending on the season:
- In the winter months, swimming availability is subject to change depending on manatee activity.
- There is a live webcam available during the winter months (November through March, depending on temperatures) to monitor manatee activity.
Conclusion
Blue Springs State Park offers a unique and refreshing experience for state park touring enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, the park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Florida’s natural wonders. Whether you’re looking to camp, hike, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the spring, the Blue Springs State Park entrance provides easy access to all that this remarkable park has to offer.