Blue Spring State Park
State park
0.1 mi
4.8 (18655)
Florida
Park featuring a cool-water spring on the St. Johns River that's popular for swimming & kayaking.
Barbecue grillCycling lanesGender-neutral restroomPicnic tables
SpringFL
Blue Spring State Park
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan Blue Spring State Park visits with day-use reservation requirements, seasonal swimming closures, official entrance directions and manatee-viewing information.
Swimming restriction
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim. Day-use reservations are required for all visitors, including annual passholders, pedestrians and cyclists, under the program introduced July 15, 2026.
Official sources checked:
Water type
Spring
Access
Designated area only
Fee
Yes
Best season
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim
Nearby towns
De Land, Deltona, Orange City
Water body
Blue Springs
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
De Land, Deltona, Orange City
Access location not verified
28.94603, -81.33939
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Blue Spring State Park
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Blue Spring State Park near Orange City
Blue Spring offers seasonal swimming and winter manatee viewing along the St. Johns River. These are different trips: a winter wildlife visit does not include swimming in the spring run.
Reserve day-use entry
Day-use reservations are required for all visitors, including annual passholders, pedestrians and cyclists, under the program introduced July 15, 2026. Consult the official reservation information before traveling.
Check seasonal water access
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim. The park activity rules also prohibit climbing spring banks or trees. Do not treat a listing or a past photograph as confirmation of today's water conditions.
Find the park entrance
Use 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, FL 32763. Confirm entrance directions, fees and notices on the official park page. The map point on this listing has not been independently verified as a swimming entry.
Plan your swim separately from your walk
Easy access does not establish safe swimming conditions for every visitor. Assess your swimming ability and follow on-site instructions. Lifeguard coverage, equipment rental availability and individual accessibility needs should be confirmed with the park.
Getting There
Use the official park address: 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, FL 32763. Consult the park website for entrance directions.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Day-use reservations are required for all visitors, including annual passholders, pedestrians and cyclists, under the program introduced July 15, 2026. The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim. Day-use reservations are required for all visitors, including annual passholders, pedestrians and cyclists, under the program introduced July 15, 2026. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Restroom
Public bathroom
0.1 mi
5 (2)
Magnolia Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Restroom and Showers
Public bathroom
0.2 mi
5 (1)
Magnolia Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Blue Spring State Park Campground
Campground
0.3 mi
4.7 (104)
2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Spring to Spring Trail, Blue Spring Trailhead
Park
0.5 mi
4.7 (140)
385 Magnolia Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Cycling lanes
Blue Springs Trail (Debary Plantation Trailhead)
Park
2.7 mi
4.8 (11)
380 Debary Plantation Blvd, DeBary, FL 32713
Luna Sands Resort
Campground
3.5 mi
4.2 (509)
1440 E Minnesota Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Campground featuring tent & RV sites, plus a pool, games, a store, a dog park & bath houses.
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Orange City
Campground
4.6 mi
3.9 (785)
2300 E Graves Ave, Orange City, FL 32763
Long & short term sites & RV rentals, with heated pool, miniature golf, dog park & many activities.
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomPublic shower
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Spring State Park
Is Blue Spring State Park free to visit?
Reported fee information: Yes. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Blue Spring State Park?
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim. Day-use reservations are required for all visitors, including annual passholders, pedestrians and cyclists, under the program introduced July 15, 2026.
What type of swimming spot is Blue Spring State Park?
Blue Spring State Park is a spring on Blue Springs located in Florida, near De Land. Plan Blue Spring State Park visits with day-use reservation requirements, seasonal swimming closures, official entrance directions and manatee-viewing information.
When is the best time to visit Blue Spring State Park?
Seasonal planning notes: The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Blue Spring State Park?
Reported facilities at Blue Spring State Park include: Amenities include restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, and well-maintained hiking trails. The park also offers camping facilities with reservations. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Blue Spring State Park?
Camping is available; use the official park website for current booking information.
Highlights
Seasonal spring swimming
Winter manatee viewing
Day-use reservations required
Unique Features
Winter manatee migrations
Clear spring water
Geological limestone formations
Vibrant aquatic wildlife
Rich historical context
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Follow current closures and designated swimming-area rules
- Do not climb spring banks or trees
- Confirm water conditions and lifeguard coverage before entering
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the spring played a vital role in Florida’s steamboat era and is now a cornerstone of manatee conservation efforts.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Best spots include the spring’s observation deck, shaded trails, and early morning reflections on the water. Winter provides unique manatee photography opportunities.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Blue Spring State Park is a protected area focused on manatee conservation and ecosystem health. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
The spring and spring run close to all water activities approximately mid-November through March to protect manatees. Check current park notices before planning a swim.
Difficulty Level
Swimming difficulty and individual accessibility are not independently rated.
Fee
Yes
Facilities
Amenities include restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, and well-maintained hiking trails. The park also offers camping facilities with reservations.
Activities
Swimming, Snorkeling
Phone
386-775-3663
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Camping is available; use the official park website for current booking information.
Nearby Attractions
- De Leon Springs State Park - State Park
- Hontoon Island State Park - State Park
- DeLand Historic Downtown - Historic District
- St. Johns River - Natural Waterway
- Lyonia Preserve - Nature Preserve
- Stetson University Campus - Historic Site
- Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge - Wildlife Refuge
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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