Blue Spring State Park
Swimming hole in De Land, Florida · Spring
Blue Spring State Park is a spring swimming hole. It is near De Land, Florida. Fee required. Best season: Winter months (December through February) for manatee sightings.
Typical season: Winter months (December through February) for manatee sightings
About Blue Spring State Park
Blue Spring S.P. sits in Florida. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. Johns River near Orange City, Florida, Blue Spring State Park is one of the state's most beloved natural treasures. At its heart is a first-magnitude spring. The largest on the St. Johns River. That pumps millions of gallons of crystal-clear water to the surface every day. The moment you step onto the boardwalk and peer down into the spring run, the turquoise clarity will stop you in your tracks. The park unfolds in layers of lush subtropical beauty. Ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss line the spring run, their gnarled roots reaching into the tannin-tinged edges where the spring water meets the darker St. Limestone formations visible beneath the surface give the water an almost otherworldly glow. Herons stalk the shallows, turtles bask on half-submerged logs, and during winter months. December through February. West Indian manatees congregate in the warm spring waters in numbers that can genuinely take your breath away. No lifeguards patrol Blue Spring S.P. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Spring
- Water body
- Blue Springs
- Fee
- Fee required
- Nearest town
- De Land
- State
- Florida
- Coordinates
- 28.94603, -81.33939
- Best season
- Winter months (December through February) for manatee sightings; spring and summer (March through August) for swimming.
- Access difficulty
- Easy access; trails are well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels. .
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- At site, in Blue Spring S.P. Phone (904)775-3663.
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming, Snorkeling
- Facilities
- Amenities include restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, and well-maintained hiking trails. The park also offers camping facilities with reservations.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitWinter months (December through February) for manatee sightings; spring and summer (March through August) for swimming.
- AccessEasy access; trails are well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels.
- FacilitiesAmenities include restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, and well-maintained hiking trails. The park also offers camping facilities with reservations.
- Camping nearbyAt site, in Blue Spring S.P. Phone (904)775-3663.
Highlights & features
- Largest spring on St. Johns River
- Year-round 73°F water temperature
- Manatee sanctuary in winter
- Snorkeling-friendly clarity
- Historical significance and conservation efforts
- Winter manatee migrations
- Crystal-clear spring water
- Geological limestone formations
How to get there
Blue Spring S.P. lies in Florida near De Land, Deltona, and Orange City. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Blue Spring State Park lies near Orange City, Florida, and is easily accessible from nearby towns such as DeLand, Deltona, and Orange City. Follow the turn-by-turn directions below to reach the park:
From DeLand
Begin in DeLand and head south on U.S. Route 17/92 (also known as Woodland Boulevard).
Continue for about 5 miles, following signs for Orange City. Look for signs directing you to Blue Spring State Park. The park entrance lies on the right-hand side of the road, shortly after passing through Orange City. From Deltona:
Start in Deltona and head northwest on U.S. Route 17/92 toward Orange City.
Continue for about 7 miles, passing through Orange City. Watch for signs for Blue Spring State Park. The entrance will be on your left-hand side. From Orange City:
Begin in Orange City and head north on U.S. Route 17/92.
Drive for about 2 miles and look for signs for Blue Spring State Park.
Turn into the park entrance, which will be on your left-hand side. Helpful Information
Parking
Blue Spring State Park has a designated parking area near the entrance. Parking is typically ample, but it can fill up during peak times, especially in the summer and on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot. Trailheads and : After parking, follow the signs to the main park area. Restrooms, picnic areas, and other facilities are available nearby. Fees: The park charges an entrance fee, which is typically paid at the gate. Be prepared with cash or a credit card. Have a safe visit to Blue Spring State Park, a beautiful destination known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Blue Spring S.P. works well as a day trip from De Land or Deltona. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Ponce De Leon Springs State Park (about 13 mi away) or browse more Florida spring spots in our directory. For the full list in Florida, see our state directory.
Access & fees
An entrance fee is required. Parking is available but can fill quickly on weekends and holidays; early arrival is recommended. The swimming area is accessed via a short, paved walkway from the main parking and picnic area.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Blue Spring S. P.?
Yes. Blue Spring S. P. near De Land, Deltona, and Orange City in FL is a spring swimming spot on Blue Springs. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Blue Spring S. P. cost?
Plan for fees: Yes. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Blue Spring S. P.?
Blue Spring S. P. is in FL within day-trip range of De Land, Deltona, and Orange City. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
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.
Conservation
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.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
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