Places To Go - Blue Spring State Park (FL)

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Blue Spring State Park
http://www.planetdeland.com/bluesprings/
2100 W. French Avenue
Orange City, Florida 32763
(386) 775-3663

Blue Spring is located west of Orange City. Take U.S. 17/92 to Orange City, go west two miles on French Avenue to the entrance. The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

Fees;
$6.00 per vehicle, for up to 8 people per vehicle
Camping: $24.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity.
Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older or who hold a social security disability award certificate or a 100 percent disability award certificate from the Federal Government are permitted to receive a 50 percent discount on current base campsite fees.
Cabin Fee: $95.00 per night, plus tax.

Blue Spring State Park covers more than 2,600 acres, including the largest spring on the St. Johns River. It is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home to a growing population of West Indian Manatees. The year - round temperatures of the spring waters provide protection from the cold for the manatees, and they tend to gather here in large numbers during the winter months. Because of this, humans are not allowed in the water (no boating, swimming, etc.) near manatee "safe zones" November 15th through March 1st. There is easy access to viewing areas, but swimming or diving with the manatees is not permitted; this rule is strictly enforced.
During the rest of the year, the spring´s crystal clear, 73 degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers, and certified scuba divers with a partner. The park is popular for wildlife viewing, fishing, tubing, canoeing, and boating. River boat eco-tours are available. This park has plenty of picnic areas and hiking. Bring your tent for overnight stays. There is a full-facility campground. Air-conditioned cabins are also available. This is a beautiful and popular park. If you plan to go on a weekend, try to get there early for good parking.

Here is a great underwater video of the manatees, filmed with park permission by Orlando Sentinel photographer Red Huber. Enjoy!

Manatees gather at Blue Springs State Park


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