Manatee Springs State Park
Amenities • Weather • Recreation
Manatee Springs State Park is located in north-central Florida and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and birds, and offers many recreational activities, such as hiking, swimming, and kayaking.
One of the main attractions at the park is the crystal-clear spring, which stays at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the spring, and there are also areas for picnicking and camping.
Other points of interest include the park's boardwalk, which takes visitors through a cypress swamp, and the underwater cave system that can be explored by certified divers.
Manatee Springs State Park is best visited between November and April, when the weather is cooler and the manatees are in the area. It's important to note that the park can get crowded during peak season, so it's best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Interesting facts about the area include that the park was once used as a filming location for the movie "Creature from the Black Lagoon" and that it is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers.
