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    Manatee Springs State Park

    4.2 (75 reviews)

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    BEAUTIFUL. What a gorgeous and wonderfully maintained park. The springs feel AMAZING. Must visit.

    George C.

    The views are great, just off the Suwanee River, with a long boardwalk from the spring out to the river. We saw several adult and about 12 baby manatees. There are canoes and kayaks for rent as well. The wildlife is plentiful and easy to capture on camera. It is a fairly large park, and free with the state park pass. Take several hours here.

    Hillary P.

    Off the beaten path, this park offers quiet campsites with access to clean springs that serve as home to manatees. Some beautiful walking areas on Treelined paths make for a relaxing break from the road. Observation areas at the springs including a dock allow for quiet reflection and peaceful manatee watching. Kayak rentals available. I just love this park! Highly recommend for campers, looking for a real getaway.

    River
    Wendy R.

    Spacious sites Wooded wildlife snakes alligators Manatees kayaking and diving raised boardwalk along the spring run for viewing

    Swimming in the main springs.
    Mike W.

    I'm updating my review since my first one is now over ten years old. Some things have changed! Manatee Springs offers a lot people seek in Florida State Parks: the beautiful clear springs, for one, but also camping, plenty of nature trails for hiking or biking, and a boardwalk where you're very likely to see wildlife such as turtles, harmless brown water snakes, birds, and often alligators (safely in the water, not on the boardwalk!). Things to know: there's a lot to do here and a concession vendor who rents canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and sells some food as well. They keep kind of strange hours, however, and are in the same small building as the bathrooms near the spring. The bathrooms are small: one fault of the Florida State Parks honestly is they did not build large enough restrooms and few have changing areas or showers, despite being at the springs. The Ocala National Forest (a USDA property) has done far better in that regard. The spring is pretty good for freediving which is my personal main attraction here. However, there is not that much to really see and the water can be a bit murky at times. There are fewer fish normally than at in example Ichetucknee's headsprings or Fanning Springs but if you come on a quiet (weekday) afternoon, you may see some mullet. Sightings of water birds and especially brown water snakes (non-venomous) and alligators along the spring-run to the Suwannee River are common so it's a good spot for wildlife photography. Manatees are far more common in the winter but sometimes will wander in during summer months, too. The park gets busy on weekends but rarely has the party atmosphere of Fanning or Ichetucknee and seems to get more people serious about viewing nature, which is nice.

    Michael B.

    This is where you want to visit to see manatees! In winter the manatees will migrate up river and into this area. You can walk on a board walk mostly just above the springs tributary and see them. However, you should really consider renting a canoe or kayak! They're totally worth the price and you'll see so much more. Hiking trails are available but the water features are the best. The day use area has a code but campgrounds have restrooms with showers and no code.

    Cynthia S.

    Bugs. Bugs. Bugs. Lotsa bugs EVERYWHERE!!! Visiting Florida to scuba dive in some of the springs. This one was quiet. We saw very few visitors during the afternoon dive. A gift shop with souvenirs, ice cream, and restrooms was nice to have. My only complaint was the buzzing gnats? They kept buzzing around my ears. I finally stuck my fingers in my ears to keep from swatting at them. I loved the long boardwalk. It was closed for a short time for cleaning, but I was able to access it after the crew was finished. Worth a visit. Bring bug spray, netting, zappers, all the things!

    Kristen H.

    Great state park that offers camping as well as day visits. Short boardwalk trail down to the Swanee through the mangroves - we saw one manatee, a baby alligator, turtles and snakes. Great swimming in the spring - flotation devices are allowed Rent a kayak or paddle board Nice bathrooms available

    Allyson C.

    We stopped in during Covid, so the walking trail near the springs was not open. We wandered around the springs and stepped in, but it was chilly! The springs stay at 72 degrees year-round. It had rained, so it was too cool for us to get in at that time. It didn't stop a group of children, though. They seemed to be having a great time. I am told that the manatees swim up through a cave to get to warmer waters in January and February. I want to go back then to see if I'm brave enough to swim with them. The water is very clear, so you could see several turtles and fish in the springs when we were there.

    Site 26, Magnolia Loop 1
    Mandy N.

    My boyfriend and I went (tent) camping here last weekend and we were super impressed. This has to be the cleanest campground and park I have ever stayed at. The site was impeccable with plenty of room, a clean fire pit and sturdy picnic table. The bathrooms were sparkling for a camp bathroom. I was amazed. The showers were really nice, warm water and plenty of room to place your things so they don't get wet. We brought our kayaks and explored the Suwannee River. The kayak launch was really close to the parking drop off area. I love that they have canoes to rent too. We hiked through the park and saw plenty of wildlife like deer, turtles and an armadillo or two. You can purchase firewood from the ranger station at the park entrance. It's $8 cash, and you have to have the exact amount as the park employees do not handle the cash at all. It would be nice if they also sold ice. Great place to camp! I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a nice weekend getaway. Also really close to Cedar Key if you need a day trip.

    Lienni V.

    I camped here for a total of 4 days and it was a great experience! As for the park, This is a beautiful park. You can see the deers walking through the park and in the campsites. We saw a raccoon that kept visiting the camp site trying to take some food. Many many squirrels And brown water snakes! The spring is beautiful! Very cold but it's a wonderful experience. The food outpost is ok. Very cheap prices but the food isn't all that great. You can rent canoes for about $26 for 4 hours. Now for the employees, they were all very nice and kind!

    Water
    Becca L.

    What's a great spot to go camping. There isn't much to do in the area but the park has a few nature trails and natural springs. You can rent kayaks and go around the park. We stayed over night in tents on the grounds, camping was so fun and it didn't feel too crowded. The water is so blue you can see right through and it is cool!

    Manatee Springs State Park
    Nancy J.

    This is a MUST SEE!! A beautiful gem tucked away from the hustle and bustle of every day life! Please trust me when I say that you've probably never have seen such crystal clear water! The spring water, which you can see rising up from the ground, is beautifully clear and the PERFECT temperature!! Besides swimming, the Park offers visitors trails to hike, canoe rental, and/or camping sites. Plus, there are certain areas where you are allowed to bring your furry friend :) Plus, the Rangers are very friendly and helpful. But be aware of your surroundings - there are snakes and alligators in the area. And, during the winter months, Manatees have been known to gather in the area.

    Manatee you can see from boardwalk

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    We enjoyed the people & the clear water. I wish we were scuba certified. That looks like fun..

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    Manatee Springs State Park Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Manatee Springs State Park

    I've heard there is a tick problem there?? Is there? And if so, does bug spray help?

    Yes, indeed there is!!! We saw two varieties, and informed the ranger who mentioned there were several other varieties. We had to carefully inspect ourselves and the dogs., and discovered one on Fry and one on me. No bites. I hate those things. I'm… Read more

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    Review Highlights - Manatee Springs State Park

    There is a beautiful boardwalk where you walk among cypress knees out to the Suwannee River.

    Mentioned in 7 reviews

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    Blue Springs Park - The platform for jumping off (not gonna say diving because not a proper dive platform) on a nice spring day.

    Blue Springs Park

    4.4(12 reviews)
    17.0 mi

    Beautiful place! The springs were closed but we went to Poe springs 5 minutes away and have a…read morenatural pool and river current with stairs, restaurant and bathrooms

    County-owned and run park with a beautiful natural spring. There is a "dive platform", which I put…read morein quotes because as a platform diver myself, it's not high enough to be a proper dive platform but still you can do basic stuff or just jump off. Most of our state parks sadly have removed their dive platforms (Fanning, Madison Blue, Gilchrist Blue) so it's nice to find one. There are picnic tables and a I think a playground for little kids plus a sand volleyball court which gets very popular on weekends. Actually, the entire place gets very popular on weekends and I'd advise going on a weekday if possible. Otherwise, it's super-crowded and mostly rowdy teens. There are a lot of fish in the springs but if you want to freedive or snorkel and see them, come on a weekday, ideally in the morning. Once kids come around after school, the dive platform is the highlight and there's enough kids jumping off it to make the water very murky so you won't see anything then underwater. Tips: --It's cash-only, $2 admission for adults, not sure what for little ones. --No footballs: volleyballs are allowed, but no footballs! I asked why and was told by the girl at the concession stand "two boys playing football trampled a Karen who complained". So yeah, that. --The focus is very much on family fun: again, if coming to see nature come on a weekday, ideally early. --If you dive/jump off the platform, swim clear off it immediately. There's likely a middle schooler jumping right after you. Some run, jump, and don't look down and I've been hit before by flying tweens. --The road leading to the park is pretty long and paved. People drive like proverbial bats out of hell on it, 60 MPH or more. Be careful.

    Photos
    Blue Springs Park
    Blue Springs Park - You can dive off the dock

    You can dive off the dock

    Blue Springs Park - Always beautiful!

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    Always beautiful!

    Nature Coast Trail - Railroad trestle over Suwannee River

    Nature Coast Trail

    4.5(2 reviews)
    6.7 mi

    The Nature Coast Trail is 33 miles of paved & mostly canopied rail trail. I've ridden on it 3 times…read more& have enjoyed the experience. Each time, I've started at the Fanning Springs Trailhead. You can go in 3 directions from that point: south to Chiefland, east to Trenton or west to Old Town. The Old Town route takes you over an old railroad trestle that spans the Suwannee River. On 2 occasions, I saw sturgeon jumping! My most recent trip included a stop at Fanning Springs State Park, which is adjacent to the trailhead. I saw 4 manatees enjoying the spring! Unfortunately, no swimming was allowed due to the height of the Suwannee River. The trail is very well maintained and makes for a great day trip.

    LOVE LOVE LOVE The Nature Coast State Trail! 37 miles of…read moreFlorida's Gorgeous unspoiled Nature Coast. It connects the cute little communities of Cross City, Trenton, Fanning Springs & Chiefland. It's a historic train trestle, built along former rail lines that meet at Wilcox Junction. It's a very neat old abandoned railroad trail that runs across the Historic Suwannee River railroad bridge near Old Town. We love to visit here, hike, bike, get hot & sweaty then go jump in the 72-degree water in nearby Fanning Springs State Park. One of my fave springs to swim.. I do not think people realize how incredible this area actually is, as the trails & parks are never crowded. From Fanning "SPRINGS" to Homosassa "SPRINGS" all the way down to "SPRING HILL," the historic "Weeki Wachee SPRING" one of the top 10 largest fresh water springs in America.. This spring is so deep that the bottom has never been found. That is another review me gotta get to.. Anyhoo, most of it is protected Wildlife areas & State Parks with incredible fresh water springs excellent for swimming. The Seminole Indians though this area sacred, as their are many Indian burial grounds, "Indian mounds" throughout this area. There are also bears & gators. Last time we were there, Sir Hubbers was riding along in front of me & decided to hit the breaks & I crashed right into him. Yep, rear ended Sir Hubbers. I almost lost a finger. Then, another time, we were around the "Andrews Wildlife Management Area" when a baby gator came running across the path, Sir Hubbers totally freaked out almost ran him over. Poor little guy, little baby gator was so cute. I also read a very sad report last week some old man, like in his 80's, was on the trail walking his dog & got eat by a bear! Not even kidding, google it. I mean you make it all the way to 80 something years old & you get eat by a bear? Supposedly, they killed the bear.. Watch for the bear signage & arm yourself with pepper spray, just in case. Although, it has some dangers, it's a very lovely paved trail, you will see tons of wildlife. You will also encounter people walking their dogs. "Leashed dogs only" and a lot of cyclists. Not like us, amateurish crashing into each other & running over baby gators, like professional cyclists. You know the ones that all dress up alike in padded spandex. I'm more of a casual beach cruiser with a wicker basket in a sundress type, i'm not into matching spandex & helmets, but to each his own. No one is strange, we all just have differed taste. Anyhoo, there is no dress code, however, it's the Nature Coast so it's hot & humid. You can also get rained on at anytime, so I always wear summer linen for this reason. There are also tons of mosquitos so be prepared for that. I eat tons of garlic and/or drink tons of lemongrass tea before I go.. Be stinky for the bugs, they won't eat you OuiOui. It is all part of Florida's Greenways and Trails System & has also been designated as a national recreation trail. It's open 8am till sundown, 365 days a year & the best part, it's completely Free. Go to "Nature Coast State Trail" Florida State Parks for the map & to plan your visit. Added to moi list of "Zen places, peaceful parks." Highest Recommendations.

    Photos
    Nature Coast Trail - Sunny on the Suwannee

    Sunny on the Suwannee

    Nature Coast Trail
    Nature Coast Trail - Heading towards Chiefland

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    Heading towards Chiefland

    Sholom Park - The land

    Sholom Park

    4.8(59 reviews)
    50.8 mi

    The most memorable park in Ocala! I have to admit I did not see it all so I will be going back…read moreshortly to see so much more. I was at peace just walking a bit sipping coffee and taking in the calm and beauty. There is much to see at Shalom Park it's very beautiful place to be. When I was there they were having a yoga class it was so nice to see. I walked around and spoke to some lovely people they mostly were enjoying some morning exercise. I'm sorry that I missed the zen garden but this just gives me an excuse to go back faster. It's obvious that many frequent this park for so many reasons you can easily see. It's lovely, peaceful, clean and you feel pretty safe comparatively. They have activities here from what I've read and the yoga class is proof of this but I think there is much more that I need to explore and check the calendar for to see and know for myself. There are 2 miles of trails, the zen garden, an area called the Labryrinth where you can take a physical, spiritual or meditative walk along its winding path. Stop along it's 24 points of reflection and create your own Labryinth experience. Labryinth's have one way in and one way out come in and form your own perspective enjoying this relaxed atmosphere. The Pergebo was magnificent as I felt so much happiness being there. It is part gazebo and part pergola, I didn't even know such a thing existed until now! It's covered in confederate jasmine and blossoms in the spring with tiny white fragrant flowers. This is located on the path at the end of the olive trees! I enjoyed the pond so much with all the beautiful fish and sounds of the falling water. You can feed the fish and see them all come at once jumping out at you. Gorgeous Koi such beautiful colors. Sit on a bench and relax if you'd like there are many all around the park for you to enjoy. They say the pavilion is often used for educational purposes and horticulture events and that there are often presentations that people can escape the sun or rain showers. The stage is where I had seen the yoga class taking place. They have weddings, live concerts, the parks sunset series and much more on the stage throughout the year. Mounted on the stage, The Peace Panels display quotes of peace by renowned authors, musicians, and political leaders! The olive tree promenade has 18 trees on each side 18 is the symbol of peace; the number 18 is the symbol of life,and many couples use this as their entry way for marriage. The formal gardens is an area where there is lot's of live large oak trees, colorful bushes and lot's of foliage all around in a nice quiet shaded atmosphere. People often gather here for a picnic, wedding or just to enjoy and relax and enjoy the environment. The bat house can hold 800 bats during the night. Bats are a natural way of achieving insect control in the park and each bat can consume 6-8,000 insect every night! There is so much more to see and encounter at Shalom Park I encourage you to visit and explore. The story of Shalom Park from their website: As with most great achievements, Sholom Park began as a vision, born in the hearts of Sidney and Ina Colen. Inspired by a visit to Boston Gardens, Sholom Park was created for a purpose; to provide a place where the pursuit of inner peace and learning may be enhanced and enjoyed. The park was named after Sidney Colen's grandfather, Sholom, which is also the Hebrew word for peace. The park does not serve a political or religious agenda or belief system After years of conceptualizing the vision, a master plan for the park was developed in 1999 and the park concepts began to take shape. In 2001, horticulturist, Steve Curl was hired to oversee the final design and construction of Sholom Park as the vision came to life. On October 17, 2004, Sholom Park celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting along with hundreds of friends and supporters. Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM Address: 7110 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34481 Phone: 352) 854-3677 Email: info@sholompark.org Wheelchair accessible *** Bike racks available ***

    Wow! WoW! Wow! I think this park is profoundly under the radar and simply not well known enough…read more This isn't just some playground with a path. In fact, there is no playground equipment at all. What it does offer, though, is everything one could want in a natural setting. You can walk for a little while or lose yourself in it for much longer. The paths are easy, accessible, and thoughtfully laid out, with enough variation to keep things interesting from start to finish. It never feels repetitive, which is rare. The labyrinth was genuinely enjoyable, with multiple points of interest throughout. Subtle shifts in sound and visual texture keep you engaged, yet everything remains grounded in simple nature, shaped by the hands of men.. nothing artificial or forced, just an intentional design that draws you in. The crowning glory moment for me was the Zen garden. I cannot remember the last time I felt that level of calm and stillness. It has a way of centering you almost immediately. I would have stayed longer, but I needed a restroom, which unfortunately was closed at the time. This is a place I will return to without hesitation. My mother has yet to see it, and I already know she is going to love it.

    Photos
    Sholom Park - The Pavilion

    The Pavilion

    Sholom Park - Raking Garden

    Raking Garden

    Sholom Park

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    Manatee Springs State Park - parks - Updated July 2026

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