Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Blue Spring State Park spans 2,643 acres in central Florida and is best known for its sizable population of manatees that seek refuge in its 72-degree spring waters during the colder months. The park lies along the St. Johns River and is a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife including turtles, alligators, and numerous bird species. Blue Spring is the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is historically significant with the presence of a 19th-century heritage site, the Thursby House. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the park for its hiking trails, fishing, canoeing, and exceptional wildlife viewing. The spring itself is a natural landmark and a point of pride for the local community, contributing to conservation education and ecological tourism. Every year, visitors flock to Blue Spring State Park to enjoy its stunning natural beauty, engage in recreational activities, and observe the gentle giants of the water, the West Indian manatees.
