A first-magnitude spring, towering cypress swamps, and wildlife-rich forests shape this serene North Florida escape. Manatee Springs State Park feels like classic natural Florida—10,000 years of human ... A sparkling spring run and boardwalk beneath a cypress forest make Manatee Springs State Park a breathtaking destination for visitors to this unique Florida gem.

Understanding the Context

Visitors enjoy camping, hiking, swimming and canoeing, while keeping an eye out for the West Indian manatees that frequent this park. Hiking Manatee Springs State Park offers 8.5 miles of nature trails on the North End Trail system that wind around cypress swamps, sinkhole ponds and uplands. The wildlife found at Manatee Springs State Park comes in a variety of forms, from feathered to scaled, from mammals to insects. Reptiles like the American alligator, several species of turtles and three different snakes inhabit the area, dependent on the water and fish that provide habitat and food sources.

Key Insights

The boardwalk at Manatee Springs State Park is a favorite among park visitors. This 800-foot pathway along the spring run to its meeting with the Suwannee River provides walkers with splendid views of the springs from several observation decks. The short walk is a must-do for any visitor and is accessible to everyone. Manatee Springs State Park proves boardwalks aren't only for the beach. The park's 800-foot boardwalk runs through a majestic cypress forest overlooking one of Florida's breathtaking first-magnitude springs.

Final Thoughts

People have enjoyed the cool waters of Manatee Springs for more than 10,000 years, from early Paleo Indians to modern park visitors. Manatee Springs State Park has been selected as the default park. Please clear form field to search for another park. Hundreds of manatees make this park their home for the winter, and viewing these gentle giants from the spring's overlooks is a rare experience. The refreshing 72-degree waters of Blue Spring State Park greet visitors at this gem along the St. Johns River.