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If you’ve ever dreamed of a Florida summer day filled with sparkling water, towering oak trees, and that unmistakable “vacation but make it close to home” feeling — Blue Springs State Park is your spot.
This Florida State Park is one of Florida’s most-loved spring destinations, and for good reason.
The Magic of Blue Springs in Summer
In the winter, the park is famous for its manatees. But in summer? It transforms into a swimmer’s paradise. The crystal-clear spring run feels like nature’s pool — no chlorine, no crowds of noisy hotels, just sunlight filtering through the trees and fish darting by your toes.
The water is so clear that you can snorkel and spot turtles, gar, and schools of silvery minnows within minutes of jumping in. There’s a boardwalk that winds along the spring run, perfect for strolling, spotting wildlife, and scoping out the best swim spot before you commit. At the spring head the water depth increases & it is a great spot for free divers or scuba divers.
Don’t get me wrong there is always chance to spot a manatee, however the chances are much smaller during the summer. One summer I was lucky enough to spot manatee on two separate visits during the summer, I was in total disbelief & excited.
Things to Do for the Whole Family
1. Swim & Snorkel
Bring your goggles & floats! The water is deep in parts, so little ones may need floaties.
2. Tubing Down the Spring Run
Grab an inflatable tube (or rent one nearby) and float the 1/8-mile stretch from the upper spring head to the swimming dock. It’s short but so much fun — you can easily do it over and over again.
3. Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The spring run connects to the St. Johns River, so you can paddle out into wild Florida beauty. Keep an eye out for manatees, otters, and the occasional gator sunbathing on the banks.
The entrance for kayaking & paddle boarding is near the boat launch at the St. John’s River. There is no paddling into the swimming areas. However the paddling area is filled with enormous fish and many opportunities for viewing wildlife. not to mention there are no waves making it an easy paddle!
4. Picnic Under the Oaks
Pack a cooler with sandwiches, watermelon, and cold drinks. Shady picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, so you can escape the midday sun.
5. Stroll the Boardwalk
Even if you’re not swimming, the shaded boardwalk at Blue Springs State Park is a must. It’s a peaceful walk with great views, and it makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Florida postcard.
Summer Tips for Blue Springs
- Arrive early. Summer weekends fill up fast, and once the park reaches capacity, they close the gates.
- Bring water shoes. The spring bottom can be slippery with rocks and algae.
- Leave the big floaties at home. They allow tubes, but oversized pool floats may get in the way.
- Pack a waterproof phone case. You’ll want to snap pictures without worrying about your phone taking a swim.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen. Let’s keep the water as clear and clean as it is now.
Why We Love It
Summer at Blue Springs isn’t about rushing from one thing to the next — it’s about slowing down, dipping your toes into cool water, and soaking up the kind of sunshine you can only get in Florida.
Blue Springs also has many beautiful trails for hiking, a boat ride along the St. John’s River as well as camping.
So pack your suits, throw the snorkels in the car, and go make some memories. Blue Springs State Park is waiting. Don’t forget to tag me @homesweetmartins on IG if you visit Blue Springs!
check out some of my favorite items to bring with me to swim at this springs!!
