2023-07-25 11:49:13
Hidden beyond the theme parks are hundreds of springs and natural landscapes scattered throughout central and northern Florida. A range of aquatic experiences awaits adventurers who wish to visit these natural jewels.
The Sunshine State has close to 700 of these magnificent sources, and boasts of having an enviable catalog of fresh water. Situated on top of a vast aquifer, this state sees fresh water rising from its subsoil, especially in the aforementioned regions, resulting in a profusion of places to swim, constituting a bold alternative to the acclaimed beaches of the Sunshine State.
Below are the highlights of Florida.
Ginnie Springs, Florida’s underwater jewel, sparkles with crystal clear waters. (Tripadvisor)
Ginnie Springs is the perfect sanctuary for those who yearn for nature in its purest form. This spring, with some of the clearest waters in Florida, is an easy two-hour drive from major cities like Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee. Here, you can enjoy tube flotation, one of the most beautiful freshwater dives in the world, or if the water is too cold, appreciate it from a canoe, kayak or rowboat.
Since Ginnie Springs is a private park, an entrance fee is charged. However, it is best to leave pets at home, as the park has a strict no-pets policy.
Madison Blue Spring, where sapphire waters blend with untouched nature. (Tripadvisor)
Near the Georgia border, Madison Blue Spring sits on the western bank of the Withlacoochee River and is home to one of Florida’s 33 springs. With its underwater caverns and dazzling sapphire waters, it becomes an Eden for swimmers and divers.
The mysterious Devil’s Den, an underground spring steeped in prehistoric history. (Visit Florida)
Devil’s Den is an underground spring located within a dry cave, formed by a karst window, meaning the ground above an underground river collapsed, revealing the water to the surface. Located near the small town of Williston, this is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations in the world for diving and snorkelling, as numerous fossils of extinct animals dating back to the Pleistocene era have been found.
The place offers a variety of services, including the possibility of renting equipment for those who want to explore. Unlike many others in Florida, this site does not allow pets.
Ichetucknee Springs, where emerald waters bring the Florida landscape to life. (Tripadvisor)
In Ichetucknee Springs State Park in North Florida is Ichetucknee Springs. Eight major springs emerge and merge to create the 6-mile (9,656-meter) Ichetucknee River. Here, visitors can kayak, float under the shade trees, snorkel in the blue hole, or keep an eye out for local wildlife such as beavers, otters, and wild turkeys. Please note that admission is $6 per vehicle.
The islands of the Dry Tortugas National Park, a haven of tranquility in the Gulf of Mexico. (Dry Turtles)
Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the most remote and inaccessible national parks in the United States, consists of a collection of seven small reef and sand islands located regarding 70 miles (112,654 meters) west of Key West in the Florida Keys in the Gulf of Mexico. It can only be accessed by boat.
Ocala National Forest Springs, an aquatic setting surrounded by lush vegetation
The springs of the Ocala National Forest (in Spanish, Bosque Nacional de Ocala) are, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular destinations. This park is an absolutely stunning place, with points of interest such as the Alexander Springs Recreation Area, a natural water park ideal for swimming and snorkelling; the Juniper Springs Recreation Area, a fairytale place with turquoise waters; and the Salt Springs Recreation Area, known for its highly saline waters that emerge from the center of the earth with high potassium, magnesium, and sodium content.
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