Florida has 175 state parks. They are perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities. Camping, hiking, canoeing, tubing, snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, and beautiful beaches highlight the activities available.
Of course, each park has its own amenities.
Twenty-seven state parks have natural springs. One of the largest springs in Florida is Rainbow Springs, a Florida day trip worth taking.
Rainbow Springs – A Florida Day Trip Worth Taking
489 million gallons of water flow from the spring to form the Rainbow River. The state of Florida has established a rambling state park named Rainbow Springs State Park to accommodate the millions of people who visit annually.
Over 1400 acres adjoin the springs designated as a National Natural Landmark by the US Department of Interior.
Views are What Pictures Are Made For on Your Florida Day Trip
As you walk in the main park entrance from Route 41 the stunning beauty can take your breath away. The park is located north of Tampa, Florida, about 88 miles in a small town named Dunnellon, Florida.
Fees vary, but $2 will allow entrance to view the head of Rainbow Springs.
There are additional reasonable fees for other activities.
Rainbow River cascades south for five miles before emptying into the Withlacoochee River. The crystal-clear cool water invites tubers, kayakers, paddle boarders and boaters
(limited) to enjoy the trip down the river.
Arguably, this five-mile stretch of Rainbow River offers more fun than a person should have in such a small distance!
Historically, the river basin has supported human life for over 10,000 years. The Timucua Indians called the river Wekiwa Creek.
In the 1930s, the area was developed into a tourist park with glass-bottom boats, attractions, a lodge and reptile exhibits. By the 1960s, other, more formidable tourist attractions drew crowds away from Rainbow Springs.
State of Florida Takes Over
In the ’70s, Rainbow Springs was recognized as a National Landmark. The park had gone into sad disrepair. In 1990, Florida purchased the area. Funding was incomplete, but people recognized the natural importance of the area.
Volunteers cleared underbrush, removed debris, uncluttered the waterway and restored the natural surroundings. In 1995 the park opened much like it is today.
Rainbow Springs offers as many, if not more, activities than most state parks. There is a swimming area at the head of the springs. Canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and paddleboard liveries dot the banks. Picnic grounds, camping areas, and hiking trails surround the park. The obligatory snack shop and store adjoin the entrance.
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