Swimming Holes and Springs Swimming

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

One of the world's deepest freshwater springs, with a riverboat tour past wild alligators and a 1937 lodge that has barely changed.

Ages 4–18+
Cost Paid
Duration ~4h
Difficulty Easy
Setting On the water

Wakulla is on a different scale from the other Florida springs - the vent is over 180 feet down and the flow is enormous. The riverboat tour is the reason most families come: a flat-bottomed boat runs downriver past alligators, anhingas, turtles and often manatees, with a guide who has usually been doing it for decades. Swimming is from a dock and diving platform into genuinely deep water, so it suits confident swimmers rather than toddlers. The 1937 lodge above the spring still has its marble floors and a soda fountain, and is worth walking through even if you are not staying.

Pricing

$6 per vehicle; riverboat tour ticketed separately (verify)

Common Questions

How much does Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park cost?
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park charges admission. $6 per vehicle; riverboat tour ticketed separately (verify)
What ages is Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park good for?
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is best for kids ages 4 to 18+.
Is Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park stroller friendly?
No, Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is not considered stroller friendly.
Can I bring my dog to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park?
No, dogs are not allowed at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park.
How hard is Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park?
The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 4 hours.
Is Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park free?
No, there is a cost to visit Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park. $6 per vehicle; riverboat tour ticketed separately (verify)
What should I bring to Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park?
Towels, cash for the boat tour, camera
How long does Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park take?
Most families spend about 4 hours at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park.
When is the best time to visit Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park?
Morning for the wildlife tour. Swimming closes if alligators come into the basin.