Blue Spring State Park
Hundreds of manatees winter in this spring run from November to March, watched from a boardwalk. Swimming opens once they leave.
Blue Spring is the largest winter manatee refuge on the St. Johns River, and on a cold January morning the run can hold several hundred animals packed into water that stays at 72 degrees. A boardwalk follows the run from the spring boil to the river, so the viewing needs no boat and works with a stroller. This is the rare wildlife sighting that is close to guaranteed rather than lucky. The trade-off is seasonal: while manatees are present the spring is closed to swimming and paddling, which typically means mid-November through March. In summer the animals leave and the spring becomes a swimming hole.
Pricing
$6 per vehicle (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Blue Spring State Park cost?
- Blue Spring State Park charges admission. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What ages is Blue Spring State Park good for?
- Blue Spring State Park is best for kids ages 2 to 18+.
- Is Blue Spring State Park stroller friendly?
- Yes, Blue Spring State Park is stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Blue Spring State Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Blue Spring State Park.
- How hard is Blue Spring State Park?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Blue Spring State Park free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Blue Spring State Park. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What should I bring to Blue Spring State Park?
- Layers for cold mornings, binoculars, camera. Swim gear only outside manatee season.
- How long does Blue Spring State Park take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Blue Spring State Park.
- When is the best time to visit Blue Spring State Park?
- December to February for manatees; June to September for swimming. You cannot have both.