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Description

The largest spring on the St. Johns River, Blue Spring is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home (mid-November through March) to a growing population of West Indian Manatees. For centuries, the spring area was home for Native Americans. In 1766 it was visited by Colonial American botanist John Bartram, but it wasn´t until 1856 that it was settled by Louis Thursby and his family. The Thursby house, built in 1872, remains standing. The spring´s crystal clear, 73 degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers, and certified scuba divers with a partner. Swimming or diving with the manatees is not permitted; this rule is strictly enforced. The river is popular for fishing, canoeing, and boating. River boat tours are available; for reservations, call St. Johns River Cruises at (386) 917-0724. The park has plenty of picnic areas and a hiking trail. For overnight stays, air-conditioned cabins, a full-facility campground, and primitive campsites are available.



Plan a weekend family getaway! Tent and RV campers can hide away in the Sand Pine Scrub campground within easy walking distance of the river and spring run. Six vacation cabins, located in a shady oak hammock are also available for overnight visitors, so bring a friend and enjoy. Please call Reserve America @ 1-800-326-3521 to make reservations.

Family geared activities for summer include St. Johns River Nature Cruises and guided canoe or kayak trips by a Florida Park Service Visitor Services Provider located along the banks of the St. Johns River; all ages welcome to participate. Canoe, tube and snorkel rentals are available from Blue Spring Enterprises at the park snack bar and gift shop. For bird watchers, spring hatchling Florida Scrub Jays and other native birds are earning their wings. Pack binoculars and plenty of curiosity.

For family fun in the great outdoors, take a stroll or bike ride on the Blue Spring State Park to Lake Beresford Park segment of the Volusia County Spring to Spring Trail from the park entrance to Lake Beresford Park located adjacent to the north boundary of Blue Spring State Park.

We encourage visitors to visit our sister park, Hontoon Island across the river to enjoy the pleasures of freshwater fishing in a scenic location along the banks of the St Johns River. It is rarely as crowded as Blue Spring and is a great place to enjoy a quiet afternoon fishing, hiking or simply enjoying nature.

- Robert Rundle, Park Manager

Click for directions

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Activities

Swimming, Tubing, Canoeing & Kayaking, Fishing, Camping, Boat Tours,Nature Trails.

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Guidebooks

• Moon Florida Camping: The Complete Guide to Tent and RV Camping
• Beach and Coastal Camping in Florida
• The U.S.A. Comprehensive Public Camping Guide (Lower 48), Vol. 8: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina

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Services

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Reservation info

All FL State Parks resevations must be made through Reserve America:



http://www.reserveamerica.com/Camping/Blue Spring SP/r/campgroundDetails.do?subTabIndex=campDetail&contractCode=FL&parkId=281101

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Fees

$20 / $85

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Photos from Blue Springs State Park

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Reviews of Blue Springs State Park

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