Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park in Orlando

Blue Spring State Park, located about 35 miles north of Orlando, Florida, offers an exceptional kayaking experience that combines pristine natural beauty with the opportunity to observe Florida’s iconic wildlife. With its crystal-clear, 72-degree spring water and lush surroundings, the park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The calm waters and vibrant ecosystem make this location ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. A visit here highlights the unique ecological treasures of Central Florida.

Adventure Guide to Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park

The Blue Spring Run
The Blue Spring Run is the centerpiece for kayaking here. This spring-fed waterway is known for its stunning clarity and turquoise hues, offering views of underwater life such as fish and turtles. During the winter months (November to March), the run becomes a refuge for West Indian manatees, offering kayakers unmatched opportunities to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Kayak Rentals Inside the Park
2BClear Kayaking provides kayak rentals available at the park. These include single and tandem kayaks, making it easy to enjoy the water even if you don’t have your own equipment. An added bonus: the staff offers pointers on navigating the run and tips on where to spot manatees or other wildlife.
Wildlife Encounters
Blue Spring State Park is part of the St. Johns River ecosystem, which is teeming with wildlife. Aside from manatees, kayakers can spot alligators, river otters, and a variety of bird species like herons and osprey. The serene environment enhances the wildlife-watching experience, making each paddle a memorable one.

Local Insights

Blue Spring became a state park in 1972 to protect the manatee population threatened by habitat loss. Today, it's one of Florida’s best-preserved spring ecosystems. Early mornings often provide a tranquil experience, with fewer crowds and optimal wildlife visibility.

Visitor Tips

Best times to visit: Winter months are ideal for manatee viewing, but spring and summer provide excellent kayaking conditions as well.
What to bring: Sunscreen, bottled water, a dry bag for valuables, and a camera for photos.
Directions from Orlando: Take I-4 east to exit 114, then head west on SR 472. Travel time is about 45 minutes.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Danny Thomasa week ago

One of the spectacular natural wonders of the Sunshine State. Beautiful unspoiled crystal clear waters of this natural spring. On the coldest days of our Florida winters it's a sanctuary for hundreds of manatees. If you have never seen a gathering of hundreds of manatees, both young and old and every age in between, you have no idea what you are missing. If temperatures are in the 40's or below, go visit. But get there early because the park fills up quickly.

Amy Harpera month ago

A beautiful, calm and shady spot to enjoy Florida nature. We saw so many manatees, as well as turtles, alligators, deer and various birds and fish. It was perfectly cool and less busy in the afternoon, a couple hours before sunset when they close the park. They are doing a bunch of construction and improvements in the park and the trails but we were still able to enjoy so much. It'll be even better soon!

Janice Forest2 weeks ago

Beautiful park! Thrilling to see the manatees during our recent visit on New Year’s Day. The fee per car was six dollars, extremely reasonable. Plenty of parking, lines to get in can be long but didn’t take more than 15 minutes. Rest rooms were clean. Nice picnic areas. Can’t wait to return someday to explore more of the park

Dave Carpentera week ago

This is a must see. We got there and found a long line waiting for us. Over an hour just to get to the parking lot. We joked the whole time saying "this better be good". It was. Over 800 manatees with plenty of viewing area. Thousands of fish of multiple varieties close enough to almost touch. Definitely a place to experience nature on its terms. Looked like they were making a larger picnic area. So as they warm on the website before you arrive there is construction going on. But does not change the ability to experience the wildlife. We will take friends there anytime we get visitors now.

Keri Cookin the last week

Beautiful park! We visited to see the manatees, there were 319 on the day of our visit! There are several dock viewing areas, as well as a gift shop. All of the employees are very friendly! We will definitely be back to do some of the other activities and check out the camping area!

Kayaking at Blue Spring State Park in Orlando