If you want to see as many springs as possible (all within a 30 min drive!) then you need to visit West Volusia, FL. This county is an outdoor and wildlife lover’s paradise. During our trip we saw Manatees, alligators, bald eagles, and so much more in some of Florida’s most protected wildlife corridor.
Where is West Volusia?
West Volusia was about an hour drive from Orlando and 30 minutes from Daytona Beach.
Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring is the most popular springs in West Volusia for good reasons. This spring is fed by a large cave system where experienced divers can enter and it is home to the largest gathering of Manatees in the world. In 2022 they counted over 700 manatees here all at once.
Fee to enter? $6 per vehicle & $2 for bicyclists
Swimming allowed? Swimming is allowed in Blue Spring State Park outside of peak Manatee season.
Kayaking allowed? Kayaking is allowed outside of peak Manatee season.
Dog friendly? In some areas of the park. Be mindful of signs.
DeLeon Springs State Park
Visitors can swim in this spring year round and the temperatures stay a nice 72 degrees fahrenheit. There are also other attractions you can’t miss like the 500 year old Old Methuselah cypress tree and Old Mill Pancake House.
Fee to enter? $6 per vehicle & $2 for bicyclists
Swimming allowed? Yes
Kayaking allowed? Kayaking and boating are allowed on the river.
Dog friendly? Yes.
Green Springs Park
Green Springs Park has one of Florida’s few green sulfur springs. Out of all the springs we visited, this was by far the most peaceful. The color of the sulfur springs are definitely eye catching and even though you can’t swim here, it is definitely worth a visit.
Fee to enter? Free
Swimming allowed? No
Kayaking allowed? No
Dog friendly? Yes.
Gemini Springs Park
This 212-acre park is home to 2 natural springs, a fishing pier, dog park, camping, and a gazebo. If there’s one park where you can easily spend your day, this is it.
Fee to enter? Free
Swimming allowed? No
Kayaking allowed? Yes
Dog friendly? Yes.
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