From Tampa, it took an hour and 30 minutes to get to the river. We first wanted to take a swim in the swimming area so we went there first before it got really crazy. The area is a bit small and there isn't really a lot of sun spots for you to chill at. It is cool to experience once but I think if you tube, you still will be able to get a swim in because parts of the river are pretty deep. After the swim area, we headed to the tubing section. It is a 15 minute drive from the main park entrance. The fee was 54 for two people that had an annual pass. Highly recommend bringing a small cooler with snacks and drinks and an extra tube for it. It took us about 2 hours to float back to our car and the river is very calm and relaxing. I've floated a river in San Antonio but wasn't as nice as Rainbow springs. Very clean and the water is sooo clear. Overall, really enjoyed our day visit to this state park! read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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Our tubing trip down the river was pretty, but it was quite boring. It took us two hours to float from the entrance to exit, and it was extremely slow. We kept getting stuck in trees and bushes. The fun part was getting to swim in the clear water and passing off our tubes to a floating friend to hold onto. We also saw an otter. The lady at the rental station was very generous and let us borrow multiple pairs of goggles and masks. There were a bunch of motorboats passing by and blasting their music. They disturbed us with their waves and noise. It was around $27 per person in addition to $5 for one vehicle, and we paid all the fees upon entrance to the parking lot. They take you on a safari-like tram to get to the tubing entrance. I strongly recommend water shoes because my friends were suffering while barefoot on the hot ground. The walk was unexpectedly long and painful for my barefoot friends. They don't have showers or any sort of water spout/hose, so it was kind of gross to not be able to rinse the river gunk off then drive hours back to a major city. They have restrooms, but they were already closed when we walked from the river exit back to the tube station, even though the actual park wasn't closed yet, and there were still employees there. This was very inconvenient, and I wish they had at least told us in advance because we didn't have a place to change. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect the restrooms to stay open while the park is open. Also, they have you sign a waiver that says you must wear a lifejacket at all times. They didn't even offer us one, so I was baffled why they made us sign a waiver that said that. Can't they get into legal trouble if they don't actually provide lifejackets? I was troubled by the fact that we had to sign something that wasn't in the slightest bit enforced. read more

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Tubing down this river is the B E S T! Clear, fresh, chilling, calm water full of wildlife like snakes, otters, turtles, herons, & loons! The homes located on the banks of the river are truly magnificent and well-kept. We loved how organized the tubing experience was (tram drops you at the North end of the river & picks you up on the South end). The tram has an enclosed trailer to haul the tubes you bring (if you do not bring one, it is provided for you at the North end). At the "convenience store" near the tram pickup, you can give the cashier your car key/fob (no danger on losing it in the river). They tag it with your name. Inside the store, there are snacks, T-shirts, sunglasses, shot glasses, etc. Also, the waivers are signed on tablets affixed to the outside of the store (super easy). The entrance to the headsprings, is located about 7-8 miles away. You have to drive there. The MOST IMPORTANT thing to know is that when the max capacity hits, the headsprings entrance closes. Security "tries" to let new people in when others leave (about every 30 mins.). About 10-12 cars will be let in after that. I absolutely understand that this is for safety. But, we never got to enter the headsprings (and we drove two hours one way to experience this natural phenomenon). Tubing Prep Heads Up: After taxes, parking fee, & tubing fees (FOR THREE PEOPLE), the total cost is a little less than $90. read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

Visited Rainbow Springs State Park on a Friday around 8am opening time and had a great experience. We checked out the main swimming area and left our belongings nearby and decided to go on a nature hike. On our way, we found some beautiful waterfalls and even a turtle sunbathing. Some of the hiking paths are paved; others are not. The natural trails were pretty secluded and relaxing, and we only saw 2 other people on the trails. The paved areas are also super nice with relaxing waterfalls and viewpoints near the water. After hiking, we came back to the swimming area, and it was already getting crowded around 10am. The water was a cool 72 degrees; if you get cold, definitely bring a shorty wetsuit. I would also recommend swim goggles and fins as the water is pretty deep--around 10 feet. The changing areas and bathrooms were super clean, and our group was able to change into dry clothes after our swim. Only downside was there were no showers available. Overall, wonderful experience and we would defiantly return. read more

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Amazing experience and relaxation at Rainbow Springs with wonderful spring water, nature and wildlife. Came here with a girlfriend early in the morning and the spring was close to empty with very few people. The water was clear, clean and the temperature was cool. It may feel cold but jumping right in and the best way for your body to adjust. There are nature trails, kayaking, and waterfalls to enjoy. You can also bring your snorkeling gear as well. Only floats you can bring are the noodles and infant floats. For kayaking or paddleboarding, you can bring your own or rent them. If you rent, note that you'll have to complete the waiver forms and can only bring non-disposable bottles such as a Tumbler -- no plastic bottles. Kayaking down the Rainbow River was amazing and seeing ducks, ducklings, lots of turtles and if you're lucky, otters. Unfortunately, no otters for us. The restrooms and changing rooms are decently clean, but we couldn't find a shower. They also have a gift shop and Rainbow Cafe with decent pricing -- burger & fries for less than $12 and the fries were freshly fried and crispy. Definitely get the fries if you wanna snack. They also serve pizzas, taquitos, hot dogs and corn dogs. Highly recommend this spring if you want to enjoy a nice and relaxing day -- best during weekdays. Weekends are difficult as they only limit the amount of guests. read more

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Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon comprises of 1459 acres and close to 13 acres submerged. The entrance fee is $5 per car. The fresh water spring forms the Rainbow River. We had a nice stroll through the park and took a dip in the very cool spring water. It is deep so we had to tread water. Activities include swimming, tubing, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking and wildlife viewing. There is a visitor center, gift shop, snack bar and restrooms. The views of the spring water, the foliage and the waterfall are just beautiful. The wildlife in the park include; squirrels, turtles, alligators and otters. Also, water birds, songbirds, hawks, kites, osprey and barred owls. The site has a two mile nature trail. It is open 8am to sundown everyday. read more

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This park is amazing! Definitely a five star, can't wait to go back, loved every minute of it event. My friends live nearby, though, so all my experiences have been with people who knew what they were doing, and where to go. The first time I went we launched kayaks from a spot in the nearby neighborhood, and spent the morning idly paddling up and down river looking at the wildlife. We also hung out in one of the specially marked off swimming holes. My most recent experience we parked at the main entrance, and then took a hike on the yellow trail. It was about three miles, and very clearly marked, which for someone like me who gets lost from the car to her house, makes a big difference. Since it was winter, not much was in bloom, but in spring all the azaleas make an appearance and it is supposed to be gorgeous. The park was still pretty magical though, because it is filled with multiple man-made waterfalls from when it used to be an amusement park, and they are absolutely beautiful. On the way out we stopped at the Gift Shop, which held your standard souvenirs as well as maps posted of what the park used to look like when it held rides, animals, and a rodeo barn. There is also a concessions stand open in this area that appeared to offer a variety of drinks and snacks. Make sure you hit the park for more than just tubing - it is really beautiful to explore. read more

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Rainbow River is absolutely stunning. The water is crystal clear, the scenery is peaceful, and the entire experience feels like stepping into a hidden paradise. We went tubing and loved every minute of it. The flow of the river is relaxing, the wildlife is beautiful, and the overall atmosphere makes it one of the best outdoor spots in Florida. This is the perfect place to unwind, explore, and enjoy nature. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and refreshing adventure. read more

Only $5 to drive through and park. Great swimming and an area to rent kayaks and tubes. It's so beautiful! The water is so clear. We were told we may see manatees. We did see turtles, otters, fish & birds. Its a easy kayak trip. The water is calm. Great family place to picnic and have some fun. Bathrooms are clean and also have changing rooms. read more

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Beautiful, serene with lots of places to enjoy with kayaks etc. Nature there beautiful and never saw one alligator or snake though the signs warned of such!! Families are everywhere read more

We had a SUPER FUN time on the water...#1 suggestion...DO NOT TAKE YOUR KEYS WITH YOU...We lost ours...that was the only bad part, waiting for assistance from AAA... I highly recommend to families...also if you don't want to be separated...BRING YOUR OWN ROPES...These are my best suggestions...HAVE FUN!!@ read more

Amazing! It's beautiful. Only 9 dollars for three people. Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of tables. Such a beautiful place read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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This review is for the tubing area. There is a separate entrance and you can opt to rent tubes or bring your own. The parking was sufficient and the restrooms were spacious and clean to change in swimsuits. The shop also has numerous accessories and snacks. Theres a shuttle that comes every few minutes to take you to the tubing area. Once you get into the water, you're on your own time and can take as much time as you want. We stopped over in several shallow areas to observe wildlife. The water was clear and beautiful. Saw many different types of fish, turtles, birds. If you're a nature lover, you'll enjoy this area of rainbow springs. Most boaters were respectful of those tubing but always stay cautious as there were some who were obnoxious. read more

Be cautious of the aggressive rangers in the campgrounds! My wife had a bad experience with one of the rangers while checking out of our campsite. He drove by multiple times while staring at her, clearly waiting for her to check out, which is fair. However after she had already pulled our van out of the site and checked out on time, he proceeded to be incredibly rude and made her very uncomfortable with the things he was saying to her, like "you didn't have to rush out, I'm not a Nazi." Very weird experience and mostly just want to make other women aware of this ranger. We will be following up with the state park as well. Rainbow River is absolutely beautiful and highly recommend but do not recommend the campground. read more

Love the Rainbow Spring , walk the trails and go swimming at the springs. Buy the season pass. Get there early in the morning as when they reach maximum capacity they will not let anyone in. read more

I will say the river is beautiful, but keep in mind that a long the river are private docks for homeowners. It's not a completely in nature ride down. Lots of kayaks and small boats. Everyone was friendly and even helpful. The main thing that ruined this experience for us is once on the river we realized my mother had a hard time moving her self in her tube so she kept getting stuck. After awhile I had her hold on to me. Well when we got towards the end there was absolutely no warning signs saying we had reached the end the only reason I realized is because I noticed the guy. Well we had to try and get ourselves over to the left to get to the dock. The staff will not help you until you are basically on the dock. I couldn't get my Mom and I over there by myself so my Mom missed it. When I asked the guy for help he said there wasn't anything he could do and that he wasn't allowed to leave. She was screaming for help. I know we signed a waiver, but having no safety protocols at all is insane. We ended asking two guys in a boat to help. She had fallen out of her tube and she almost drowned because she got caught on something. They should have warning signs the exit is coming so start moving that way. They also should give that person a walkie on the deck so that someone can get help to get the person who missed it. What are people supposed to do with no cell phones or no way of knowing where they are to get back. The fact that they basically just say oh well you have to figure it out is ridiculous waiver or not. Just keep in mind that if you can't make it to that deck they will not help you and you'll just float on by. They need rangers or someone patrolling that river to help. It shouldn't be left up to strangers out trying to enjoy their day. I am so grateful for those two men for helping my mother. read more

What a magical place! There is a fee to get in $2.00 and you get a nature experience out of a storybook. The view of the springs is aqua greens and blues. Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water or paddle boarding or kayaking. There are steps to enter the water and it's roped off. Snorkeling you will see all kinds of fish big and small. There is a large deck area and a handicap ramp and chair to get into the water. Take a stroll down the path through beautiful trees to a waterfall or take the path to the end for a view of the water, there are so many possibilities here. Picnicking on the large open grassy area, picnic tables and grills first come first serve. Enjoyed the wildlife birding trail and saw two owlets and mom. Hiking, camping, fishing, geo seeking. This place is a nature lovers dream. Restrooms are clean. read more

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We arrived at the spring about 11:30. There was no line and it was beautiful! Typically you pay at the gate but at this park you walk up to a window to pay. $2.00 per person! There's a gift shop and snack bar. Dogs are allowed on a leash but not in the water. You may only use a noodle or life vest in this spring. I understand why because the swimming area is small and deep 6-12 ft. They have a place where you can rent kayaks and paddle boards and if you go a little further down the spring you can dip off into the water. You are allowed to bring your own paddle boards and launch at the launch area if you choose. A chair, wagon, umbrella, towel, pool noodle, sunblock, googles or snorkel , lunch, water shoes and a wet dry bag is suggested! read more

Thank you Katie. The tubing adventure was spot on. Slow and easy. People partying on shore at their homes and along the way tubing. Otters frolicking, birds right there on the shore and in the trees and hawks soaring overhead. Little bit of a walk, on very nice boardwalks, going to and from the river. This was however too much for my old fat self but, Katie and her side by side came and picked me up at the tube return trailer. People in the store were nice and helpful. BRING YOUR ON DRINKS IN STORE BOUGHT WATER BOTTLES. DISPOSABLE FOOD AND DRINK CONTAINERS ARE NOT ALLOWED. There was one group with beer cans. No problem with the beer, just the cans. Some people have to feel so entitled. :( read more

The entrance was a little confusing to find. Be sure you're using the actual address (if you use Maps for iPhone and type in Rainbow Springs State Park, it will take you to the tubing entrance). The actual address is: 19158 SW 81st Place Road Dunnellon, FL 34432 The swimming area isn't that large and it goes 6 ft deep. It's better to bring your own paddle board or kayak instead. Due to the size of the swimming area, you can only bring in pool noodles. No other flotation devices are allowed. The gift shop sells the noodles for $3 each along with goggles and life vests if needed. There is a lot of picnic space under the pavilions. Make sure you have a wagon or cooler on wheels - it's a bit of a walk to the picnic areas if you need to carry your own materials. Dogs are allowed on leashes everywhere - just not in the water. read more

Beautiful blue green water, Florida's deep blue cloud-less sky, azaleas of white, pink, red and surrounded by nature...all for $2 a person to enter. The day we went (3-7-23) the swimming area was closed because a 12-foot gator was laying in the weeds not too far away. Little kids were bummed because they wanted to swim but thy also said "Cool" re the gator. read more

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Tubing! This is a good spot to take the 2 hour float. $22 per person includes tube, ride to drop off and park entry. Great people and easy in and out of the river read more

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Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. $2 Entry for one of the most beautiful springs I've ever been to. Rented a tandem kayak with my friend and it was heavenly. Bathrooms available too! read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Swimming dock - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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My partner, his family, and I took a trip out to Rainbow Springs State Park to go swimming and snorkeling. Due to Covid there are restrictions to the amount of people in the park which I greatly appreciated. The park closes for the day once the parking lot is full. The lot becomes full between 8:30-10. The time depends on if you visit on a weekday or weekend. The park fills up fast on the weekends. There is a two dollar per person admission fee and cash (exact only) or card is accepted. The park was beautiful and the spring fed water was so pretty. We al swam and snorkeled all day! The weather was great and everybody was social distancing. There is a ton of space to distance as well. This is a must visit park when you are in Florida. The surroundings make you think that you are not in Florida due to no palm trees being in the park. I will definitely be going back to the park to go tubing, kayaking, and doing more swimming! Go visit soon!! read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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Rainbow Springs has a lot to do. You can swim, rent canoes or kayaks, or float on the river in tubes. Very beautiful and highly recommend! read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Rainbow Springs - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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So Clean & The Springs Are Breath Taken! You can spend the whole day Kayaking ans swimming in the Springs! read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Kayaking & Cocktails At Swampy's - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

The park is very beautiful but the staff made it a really bad experience for me. We drove 2 hours and we were treated very poorly when they said the park was closed. They became very rude and aggressive and made us get off the property. We work in healthcare and just wanted to enjoy the day there but instead they made us feel worst and I really didn't enjoy my experience at all. read more

A very beautiful spring and swimming area. Admission is two dollars. It used to be in a mismatch park with beautiful plantings. When Disney came to Florida, it died, and was abandoned for 25 years. It has been re-opened as a state park and it's definitely worth the trip. There are many miles of trails, and a waterfall, as well as the beautiful spring that I have included the pictures. read more

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While this park offers some absolutely breathtaking, scenic walking paths to enjoy; my absolute favorite thing offered here in the chance to swim in the crystal clear springs. The entry fee is a mere $2 per person. Bring a noodle to help you enjoy floating and swimming around, as the swimming area is 8 feet deep at the most shallow point. If you dont have a noodle, they sell them in the gift shop for $3. There is a bathhouse down, close to the roped off swimming area. It has always been clean when we've used it. There's also plenty of space to sunbathe, in between swimming and taking in the beautiful scenery. Take a walk on the paths to enjoy some waterfalls and more views of the springs. This is a must visit spot for anyone passing thru and a top fav of our entire family. read more

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We visited for the day to swim in the springs. The park has an option to swim at the head of the springs, that's where the water comes out to form the river. There is a $5 per car entrance fee. They have a circle like trail to hike to see their spring waterfalls, easy hike for most. There swimming area is tricky, because they do not have a shallow area, so you will be treading water. You can only bring in certain types of floatation devices, like noodles. They have these for sale at the visitors center, along with other items. They have a cafe for food, drinks and snacks. Picnic areas, large grassy area for laying out. There wasn't much for where to put your stuff, it was very much based on the honor system, but no one was going in anyone's belongings so no big deal. If I knew, I would have just brought a towel and my googles lol. The water was colder towards the deeper end, but that's because the springs were pouring out underneath where you swam, which was really cool! I do suggest snorkeling here if you do not have a flag which is required on the other parts of the river. It was really refreshing and they had options for canoe and kayak rentals. You can also bring your own kayak and canoes. Note to future visitors: there are about three entrances to the park. One is for tubing only, the visitors center is where the swimming is. Check website for prices. We had a blast swimming in clear waters! Beautiful scenery and natural areas. read more

Today was an incredible day although most are skeptics when it comes to time travel 2020 has offered up things far more bizarre - it all started with a empty parking lot then a walk along an abandoned path, it's as eire as the day after the world ended, if it weren't for the elderly masked lady working the booth I would say we were totally alone in this huge jurassic like park setting - we only needed to flash the yellow ticket we received when we checked into the campground a few days earlier to get passed her gaze, it's as if she didn't expect anyone to enter today, maybe she holds the keys to a period beyond the Mesozoic Epoch, being alone in such a space feel like the paranormal is alive, perhaps these are the days when "Big Foot" appears. The gift shop was dark with signs taped on the window stating it was closed until further notice, a few steps away are the plaques inscribed commemorating the park, a few steps further is the money shot for anyone with a camera the first view of the springs so breathtaking it's as if it was staged. Is it possible the park is completely void of visitors today, earlier reviews speak of early closure because of capacity issues by 8:00 am, over crowded walkways and the spring saturated with swimmers, I see none of this at 1:00 PM on this beautiful November day, there must be something else in play here, it's as if a pandemic has taken over our life's and we have stopped living, for me I believe the sun will rise tomorrow as it has for billions of years. Most of the waterfalls are turned off today, the steep artificial structures are dry and bare along the mossy brick paths, the greenery seems nourished but I reach down several times to bend a leaf or smell a flower to validate it's all real being every thing I've witnessed seems surreal up to this point. I climb the path and hear the unmistakable sound of falling water I continue the climb towards the trickling sounds and find a water fall operating as designed despite the drop in revenue and immediately the experience improves, the minnows are dancing in the ebb and flow as the water falls freely and is caught by the perfectly placed stones as it makes its way to the springs far below. I sit on a ledge and take it all in - I doubt many have experienced this place as I have today, void of visitors during normal business hours. It's enjoyable but strange, aren't these places created to be enjoyed - I miss the little ones running around screaming, the elementary one in awe of nature, the parents making excuses to why they can't have ice cream because they are about to eat lunch and the elderly sitting on a bench taking it all in - have we all been scared into something we never saw coming, it's been less than a year since the lines here ended to witness nature's beautiful. I personally don't like the "new normal" these places won't exist if they aren't used whether we wear mask or not... read more

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Loved this park. We didn't even do anything but walk around, enjoying the flora, waterfalls, beautiful colored water / and it was still wonderful. Saw lots of (much more energetic) people kayaking, canoing etc - but we were quite happy to admire their athleticism without feeling the need to participate. If you just want to enjoy, but have a tough time walking, know that it's fairly flat when you enter, there are some nice views right away, and some benches on which you can sit. So don't skip it - you can manage it easily with a cane, and the beauty is worth it. The gift shop is closed due to Covid. So is the snack bar - but there is limited vending. We brought a light lunch in a soft side color and enjoyed it by a waterfall! At $2 pp admittance, it's a bargain - whatever you choose to do once through the gate.... read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Rainbow Springs - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

Well-kept river and premises and an overall great experience, although I'd consider it a little expensive in my opinion. It's a 3rd-party company operating the rental and it is $20 per tube for a 2 hour experience. For access, note that you must enter through separate tubing entrance and not the main park entrance. The entry fee to the State Park is $2 like most, and you'll pay for all your rentals and entry at the access gate. There is a pretty small parking lot, which can fill up fast (it's also super duper hour asphalt, so think about your feet in advance). Staff at the building are nice, but the kids helping with the tubes are pretty complacent. I get it, they're teenagers. The rental tubes were OK, but 80% needed alot more air that the kids were too reluctant (lazy) to do that morning. Overall, the river is amazing - clear, clean, perfectly cool, relaxing - but, the 3rd party company operating the rental service is mediocre. While your entry fee into the tubing gets you into the main park as well, it will be hit or miss on whether you actually can get in before they are full. I think it's almost impossible to visit both, since you need to be there early for both. Ultimately, I would recommend bringing your own tubes (if you plan on ever tubing twice in your life it will be more cost-effective), wearing water socks (parking lot asphalt is unbearable), start early and visit the main spring first to guarantee entry. Consider looking into K.P. Hole if you want a longer experience (4 hours, instead of 2) or a cheaper one. read more

Made a family trip out from Orlando to Rainbow Springs and it was largely disappointing. We started with tubing. There are a couple of addresses listed on the site, make sure you go to the right location. Parking at the tubing start location is extremely limited. We arrived at 8:53am and there were only a few spots left. You pay $22 dollars and that covers a tube, a tram ride there and back, and entry into the state park. You only get 1 trip, you cannot rose again. They said it would be 2 hours, but I think it was maybe an hour. You cannot bring anything with you. One side of the river is all nature and the other side is private residences - which was kind of weird. If you were floating/drifting to the private residence side you were basically floating onto people's property. Once you finish tubing you tram back to your car and can drive to the state park. The bathroom was disgusting. 4 stalls in the women's room, and 3 were out of order. Disgusting items left all over, clearly not maintained (see picture). At the main park, the line for the bathrooms was very long, as people were using it to change their outfits. They're not well ventilated, so you're waiting in the heat. The line to get in was very long - you can bypass with your receipt from the tubing purchase. The swim area was jam packed. They restrict the area that you're allowed to view. There is a "trail" to view some waterfalls and an old abandoned zoo area. Nice sites, but it took 10 minutes to see it all. Probably don't need to come back. Overpriced and not worth it. read more

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Absolutely enjoyed my time at this park. My friend and I were able to rent out a tandem kayak for $22 and we got to explore the springs, wildlife, and small nooks and crannies for about 3.5 hours or so. Afterwards, we took a walk around the trails to see what remained of this once-upon-a-time roadside theme park/attraction. The signs were well defined and the trails cemented. Off in one area you can see some of the cages where the park kept the animals back in the day and what's left of the butterfly gardens. The best part, though, are the waterfalls! We don't have many of them in the state so to see one (although man made) was pretty awesome! read more

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They have a great river tube float for 2 hours and it is a great experience. It is important to read the rules before you arrive and make sure you adhere. There are no disposable containers or beverages allowed or coolers so pretty much a thermos is about it or yeti style cup etc... the staff is great and attentive and just a very relaxing time to be had. I would recommend bringing some swim goggles or dive mask because it is nice to peek under the water and see the fish swimming below you. I had to borrow my daughters as Shaw's not as pumped up to see the wildlife below her The water is crystal clear and about 72f all year so it was very comfortable and relaxing spring feed adventure. There is no need to bring a tube as they provide them. It is important though to arrive very early as the stop taking people once a certain number is hit. We arrived at 08:00 to make it. They hit capacity shortly after as it is popular on a hot day as you can imagine. I don't have more pics because I didn't bring a waterproof camera. read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Check in for the river float - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

We went to try devils den near Ocala and ended at rainbow springs park due to capacity closures at the other spring. This is my second time there and it was even more fun than the second time. The line to get in takes a while and you will be standing in the sun the majority of time waiting to pay, but with a $2 entrance fee you can see what adds to the popularity. There's waterfalls in the park along with a nature trail, but the spring is where the party is at. You can see the spring after you pay and come through. It's crystal clear within the areas that are sectioned off. There is not a lifeguard from what I saw but there is a park attendant monitoring the area and making sure people stay within the boundary. The water is cold so be prepared for a delay when going down the stairs, which are to the far left. I recommend if that bothers you just use no in from the platform. Be careful when jumping off the platform as there are rocks close to certain areas and if you are tall keep your feet tucked in. They only allow noodles, which they sell in the gift shop in either pink or blue. They are a little pricey at $3 per noodle and are very thin so don't expect a lot of support if you are not a good swimmer. There is also tubbing, but you have to exit the park to experience so make sure to get your entrance so you are not standing in line again. Kayaks are also allowed although I am not sure if you can rent. There is an area a little bit farther from the spring that they can be put into the water. There are no lockers so leave as many valuables in the car, but this the second time and I have not seen a problem with leaving items unwatched. Overall the alligator warning signs are bit scary to see but it's a nice refreshing experience. read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

Stunning area! It's really hard to figure out where to go though. We pulled into the main head springs entrance with the intention of launching our kayaks but we didn't see any other kayaks, just a bunch of people with pool noodles. We drove all the way around to the campground entrance but you can't get in there without an access code. I had to call the info number a few times before someone picked up. We drove back over to the main entrance and walked up to the entry area only to find out that the walk from the parking lot to the kayak launch was about 1/3-1/2 mile, half of it being uphill. Neither one of us were up for carrying two heavy kayaks that far so we paid the $2 pp entry fee and just walked around. The gift shop and restaurant are closed. The swimming area is pretty but very small and absolutely packed with dozens of kids. The kayaks and paddle boards for rent are really worn out. I feel like the park could make more money by having a more easily accessible launch site and charging to launch. We would've gladly paid $20 to launch our own kayaks but we couldn't justify spending so much to rent theirs. One thing I thought was funny was that everyone in the park was wearing masks, even while out on the water, but no one at any of the restaurants wears masks, not even the cooks and servers. Strange little town. Anyway, the head springs are gorgeous and definitely worth the $2 entry fee, even if you just walk around for a bit like we did. read more

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Rainbow River is a magical dream of emerald greens, blues, and freshwater grass. When you float the river on a tube, kayak or canoe you can see bass and brim under the water. Alligators are on the banks; they don't bother you. Old Florida lives here, the west side of the river lined with houses, but the east side is all a nature preserve. You can pull over in your tube, canoe or whatever no combustible water vehicle you have and have lunch under a palm tree. The river has mini beaches you can dock on, tree swings and 20-foot trees you can climb and jump in the deeper pools of the river. read more

Rainbow Springs State Park - 72 degree alkaline water, you can drink the water!! I think the PH is 8 - Parks Near Me - Dunnellon, Florida

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My husband and I really enjoyed walking through this park. With an admission fee of only $2 per person, it is a great value, too. There are beautiful walkways and water features that really create a peaceful walk. We did not swim in the spring but many did and it looked like fun. Families brought coolers and picnic lunches so it seemed like a great spot to spend time together in nature. It was a beautiful place to visit and we will definitely return if we are in the area again. read more

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