Blue Spring State Park offers a unique and refreshing experience for state park touring enthusiasts, particularly those interested in manatees and natural springs. The park is located approximately 45 minutes from Daytona Beach and is a popular destination for swimming, floating, camping, kayaking, and manatee watching.
Blue Springs State Park Parking Fees
The cost of parking at Blue Spring State Park is a key concern for visitors. Here’s a breakdown of the parking fees:
| Vehicle Type | Parking Fee |
|---|---|
| 2-8 people per vehicle | $6 |
| Single-occupant vehicle | $4 |
| Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, and passengers in a vehicle with a holder of an Annual Individual Entrance Pass | $2 |
It’s important to note that during periods of high visitation, the park may reach capacity, causing temporary closures that can last several hours. Visitors with camping or boat tour reservations are admitted, but pedestrians and bicyclists must wait until the park reopens.
Camping and Cabin Rentals
For those planning to camp at Blue Spring State Park, the fees are as follows:
- Campsite fee: $24 per night, plus tax
- Nonrefundable reservation fee: $6.70
- Nightly utility fee for RVs: $7 (does not apply to tent camping)
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, excluding the reservation fee and utility fee.
Cabin rentals are also available at Blue Spring State Park for $95 per night, plus tax, a nonrefundable $6.70 reservation fee, and a $7 nightly utility fee. A two-night minimum stay is required.
Park Hours and Access
Blue Spring State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Campers arriving after sunset should call the park on the day of arrival for the gate combination and instructions.
Unique Features of Blue Springs State Park Parking
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Manatee Viewing: Blue Spring State Park is a popular destination for manatee watching, as the park’s natural springs provide a warm-water refuge for these gentle giants during the winter months.
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Natural Springs: The park’s main attraction is the crystal-clear, 72-degree Blue Spring, which is a first-magnitude spring that discharges an average of 104 million gallons of water per day.
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Recreational Activities: In addition to swimming and floating in the spring, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
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Temporary Closures: During periods of high visitation, the park may reach capacity, causing temporary closures that can last several hours. Visitors with camping or boat tour reservations are admitted, but pedestrians and bicyclists must wait until the park reopens.
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Discounts for Florida Residents: 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, excluding the reservation fee and utility fee.
By understanding the parking fees, camping and cabin rental options, and unique features of Blue Spring State Park, state park touring enthusiasts can plan their visit and make the most of their experience at this beautiful natural wonder.
References:
– Daytona Beach: Blue Spring State Park
– Florida State Parks: Blue Spring State Park
– Florida State Parks: Blue Spring State Park Hours and Fees