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Manager's Message
THE MANATEES ARE BACK!
With the onset of cooler weather and lower water temperatures in the St Johns
River; manatee sightings in and around Blue Spring are on the upswing. As we get
further into the winter season, park visitors will be able to see manatees
frequenting the Blue Spring run on almost a daily basis to stay warm.
Temperatures in the spring run remain a constant 72 degrees; creating a safe
haven for the West Indian Manatee. The best time to view manatees is early in
the morning on a cold winter day. Blue Spring is a designated manatee refuge. To
provide a safe warm water refuge for manatees during the winter season, the
spring and spring run is closed to all water related activities including
swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and boating from November 15 through March 1.
A mere 35 miles from hustle and bustle of Orlando and the Attractions, Blue
Spring draws a year-round mix of families, nature lovers, picnickers, water
enthusiasts, sun-worshipers and romantics. A single day can include a scenic
river boat trip, a guided or solo canoe or kayak trip, bird or wildlife viewing,
a picnic under the spreading Live Oaks, and a classic sunset over the historic
St. Johns River. Winter park activities 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 river, and canoe rentals at the park
snack bar. Pack binoculars and plenty of curiosity. Please remember if you plan
a trip to Blue Spring to arrive early as the park often reaches capacity on
weekends, holidays and during Manatee Season and will close temporarily until
overcrowded conditions ease. Visitors may also wish to visit our sister park,
Hontoon Island across 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. Please explore the Hontoon Island pages for details.
- Robert Rundle, Park Manager
Welcome to Blue Spring State Park
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 British 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 manatees is not permitted and 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. Located west of Orange City. Take U.S. 17/92
to Orange City, go west two miles on French Avenue to the entrance.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Blue Spring State Park, please call 386-775-3663.
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Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Take exit 114 off Interstate 4 and follow the signs. Go south on 17/92 to Orange
City, about 2.5 miles. Make a right onto West French Avenue.
Park Fees
Admission Fees$5.00 per vehicle
Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Extra Passengers, Passengers In Vehicles With Holder of
Annual Individual Entrance Permit, Admission Fee $1.00
Camping Fee
All Year: $20.00 plus tax
Cabin Fee
All Year: $85.00 plus tax
Blue Spring State Park
2100 West French Avenue
Orange City, Florida 32763
Phone: 386-775-3663
Fax: Contact Park for Number
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