Juniper Springs: Fees, Hours, Eels & Canoe Run (2026 Guide)
Category: Florida Springs
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Visit one of Florida’s most historic springs, with a legendary canoe run, resident American eels, and a CCC mill house that has stood here since the 1930s. We have been several times, most recently in June 2026. Quick Facts Know Before You Go Is Juniper Springs Worth Visiting? Yes, if you want eels, paddling, or…
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This is the Ocala National Forest destination for blue crabs, mineral water, and springs hopping. We visit often, most recently in June 2026. Our verdict: Salt Springs is one of Florida’s most unique springs thanks to its mineral-rich water, blue crabs, excellent snorkeling, and proximity to Silver Glen, Alexander, and Juniper Springs. We recommend it…
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Florida has more first-magnitude springs than anywhere else on Earth, yet most Floridians only visit one or two their entire lives. Springsmaxxing is our solution. Springsmaxxing (noun): The practice of systematically exploring Florida’s freshwater springs by visiting new springs throughout the year while developing a deeper appreciation for the state’s unique aquifer, wildlife, and waterways.…
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If you’ve ever wanted swim alongside manatees, tube a crystal-clear spring run, hike through Florida scrubs, and reminisce in a 150-year-old house that once welcomed steamboats on the St. Johns River – all in a single day – then it’s time to visit Blue Spring State Park. Less than 35 miles north of Orlando, this…
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If you’re looking for a natural Central Florida escape, Wekiwa Springs State Park deserves a spot on your list. Wekiwa Springs State Park is located about 30 minutes from downtown Orlando and makes one of the best outdoor day trips from the city. This 7,000-acre sanctuary offers swimming in crystal-clear spring water, miles of hiking…
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If you are looking for the best “lazy river” in the Orlando area, you found it here at Rock Springs in Kelly Park. With crystal clear water, a jungle-like canopy, and even hiking, this well-known park is one of the premier experiences in central Florida. This complete guide will cover everything you need to know,…
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One of the roughest, wildest, most challenging paddles in Florida — not for the faint of heart. Quick Facts Safety Warning This is not a beginner or intermediate route. This stretch of the Waccasassa River is regarded as one of the most technically demanding paddle routes in Florida. You will encounter log jams, overhanging branches,…
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Bronson Blue Springs (sometimes called Levy Blue Springs) is a small, county-run park that offers a simple, no-frills experience. This spring is everything you want Florida to be. Not to be confused with Blue Spring State Park in Orange City (the manatee spring near Orlando) or Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park in High Springs. Many “blue springs”…
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The Emerald Cut is the crystal-clear, spring-fed stretch of Rock Springs Run you can only reach by boat, and it is the start of our favorite paddle near Orlando. This guide covers the full trip from King’s Landing up the Emerald Cut and 8.5 miles down to Wekiva Island, plus how every confusing Wekiva name…
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Silver Glen Springs features crystal clear water and an approachable, sandbar vibe suitable for all ages. While busy with people, this park is often packed with aquatic life, my favorite being the huge schools of striped bass that hang out right next to the spring head. Snorkeling here is awesome, and hiking is available from the same…
