Contact Information
2100 West French Avenue
Orange City, FL 32763
904-775-3663
Blue Spring State Park is much more than a scenic area for canoeing and swimming; it plays a vital role in the survival of one of Florida's most beleaguered residents -- the manatee. Visitors can learn more about this endangered animal through ranger interpretive programs. A chair accessible observation platform provides a view of the endangered mammals that gather at the spring during the cooler months of the year. From November through March, the manatees leave the colder waters of the St. Johns River for the safety and comfort of the 72-degree spring. The 2,483-acre site offers a plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
The park has 51 campsites with picnic tables, grills and water. Twenty-seven sites also have electric hookups. The campground is located in a pine forest within walking distance of the river and spring run. The campground offers accessible bathhouse facilities. Primitive camping is available to registered backpackers. The sites are at the end of a four-mile hiking trail that winds through shaded hammocks and open flatwoods. The park also has six cabins, each with central air / heat, fireplace, two bedrooms, bathroom, fully equipped kitchen (stove and refrigerator), screened in porch, an outdoor grill and picnic table. Linens, pillows, blankets, towels, cooking and eating utensils are provided (linen is not furnished on a daily basis). Reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance with a minimum stay of two nights.
Blue Spring State Park offers two separate picnic areas throughout the park. There are covered pavilions with grills located at these areas for larger groups. One of these areas also has a large covered barbecue pit, and can be reserved, for a fee, from October through March. Contact the park office for details.
Blue Spring offers swimming and scuba diving in a crystal clear, 72-degree spring run. Swimming or diving with the manatees is NOT permitted.
The same pristine beauty enjoyed by Florida's earliest residents still can be seen today. A self-guided boardwalk guides visitors through a lush hammock to Blue Spring.
From the accessible fishing pier, anglers will find an abundance of bluegills and blue cats, in addition to largemouth bass, shellcrackers and speckled perch. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for individuals age 16 years and older. A concession stand offers snacks, camping supplies and limited groceries. Canoe rentals are available.
Blue Spring State Park offers scuba diving, camping, picnicking, swimming and canoeing in Big Spring Run, and boating and fishing on the St. Johns River. Viewing the endangered manatees is a favorite winter attraction.
The eastern coast of central Florida is usually hot and humid with thunderstorms throughout summer. Average summer temperatures range between 81 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit (27 - 29 Celsius). Winters are mild and dry with temperatures averaging 58 - 64 degrees Fahrenheit (14 - 18 Celsius). Typical yearly precipitation ranges from less than 52 inches to about 56 inches. Lightweight clothing and sunscreen are highly recommended during the summer months. Sweaters and jackets are appropriate attire in winter.
