Did you know that outside Orlando Florida you can swim near manatees in the wild? Florida’s Blue Spring State Park, established in 1972, is home to hundreds of manatees, sometimes known as sea cows. These gentle giants can be seen in the crystal clear, cool spring water year-round, but they gather in their largest numbers during the winter.
Between March and November, when most manatees venture out into the world, guests at Blue Spring State Park are welcome to slip into the river to feel the comfortable 72-degree water for themselves. While you are not allowed to swim directly with them, you can swim near them. We have, and it is delightful.
The park also offers two-hour boat tours that the family can enjoy.
Manatees are vegetarians
Multitudes of Manatees
Manatees in Florida are a popular attraction. Be sure to check out the daily manatee count at the ticket booth! The current record counted nearly a thousand manatees visiting at once. You will also spot many birds, large fish, and alligators thriving alongside them.
During select dates in the spring, the park allows guests with an after-hours permit to stay after closing to see beautiful fireflies glow in the twilight hours.
So Much to Do at Blue Spring State Park
Don’t want to get wet? No problem! The park also boasts several miles of hiking and biking trails, allowing you to get in touch with Florida’s unique scrub habitat. There is scuba diving and snorkeling. Tube rentals are also available.
During the peak migration months of November to February, you can reserve a snorkeling kayak tour with a naturalist. You paddle up to the edge of the protected refuge and wait for the hundreds of manatees to wake up and float under kayaks to the river in search of a morning meal.
Beyond the Manatees: Camping
Guests wanting to enjoy the park for longer may make reservations for one of over 50 campsites within walking distance to the spring, each with electricity and accommodation for recreational vehicles up to 40 feet in length. Six two-bedroom cabins are also available for a minimum two-night stay, fully equipped with central heating, air conditioning, kitchen, and outdoor grill.
Thursby House at Blue Spring State Park
Beyond the Manatees: Florida History at Blue Spring State Park
Those who want a glimpse to Florida’s past will enjoy visiting the Louis P. Thursby House, a 19th century home still standing in its original condition after nearly 150 years. It was once part of a larger property including an orange grove and steamboat dock and today it remains a museum showcasing the life of European settlers like the Thursby family. The house itself sits on top of an ancient shell midden, a type of mound typical of the area, built by native Americans not only to consolidate food waste but also act as a support for buildings on top.
Practical Matters
Blue Spring State Park is a convenient 45-minute drive directly north of Orlando and offers an amazing look at spectacular wildlife along with a variety of activities fit for the whole family. Parking tickets are only $6 for each vehicle of up to eight guests, making your visit affordable.
Be aware that the park is very popular so you might experience long lines to enter. It is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to sundown.
Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving are all allowed, as are bringing your own tube, kayak, canoe, or paddle board. Rentals for canoes/kayaks and tubes are available. Guided boat, scuba, and snorkeling tours allow guests to get some of the best views of all Blue Spring State Park has to offer. There is a concession with food and gifts.
More Tips and Ideas For Orlando Area Attractions
