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Manager's Message

Due to the dry conditions throughout the county, Volusia County Fire Services has issued an outdoor burn ban. Please contact the park if you have any further questions>

Manatee Season at Blue Spring

They’re back! Cooler evening temperatures dropping into the 50’s with highs in the low 80’s are slowly cooling down the temperature of the St. Johns River. When river temperatures fall below sixty eight degrees, the constant 72.5 degree waters of Blue Spring are a welcome warm water refuge for manatees. Already this week young manatees and some mothers with calves have been spending the night and early morning in the warm spring waters. As winter sets in, more manatees will seek refuge at the spring each day.

Remember, all water activities in the spring and spring run; including swimming, snorkeling, scuba, and paddle sports are curtailed from November 15 through March 1 while Blue Spring is a winter Manatee Refuge. Manatee viewing from the wildlife overlooks and summer swim dock is excellent during the winter months.

Plan a weekend family get-away; Tent and RV campers can hide away in the Sand Pine Scrub campground within easy walking distance of the river and spring run. Six vacation cabins, located in a shady oak hammock are also available for overnight visitors. Bring a friend or family and enjoy natural Florida at its finest. Please call Reserve America @ 1-800-326-3521 to make reservations.

Family geared activities for fall include St. Johns River Nature Cruises and Kayak tours by a Florida Park Service Visitor Services Provider located along the banks of the St. Johns River; all ages are welcome to participate. You can grab a snack or quick lunch while perusing the manatee themed books and souvenir offerings at the Blue Spring Enterprises snack bar and gift shop. Manatee interpretive programs are offered daily at the concession building during Manatee season.

For family fun in the great outdoors, take a stroll or bike ride on the Volusia County Spring to Spring Trail from the park entrance to Lake Beresford Park located adjacent to the north boundary of Blue Spring State Park.
- Robert Rundle, Park Manager

Welcome to Blue Spring State Park

Volusia County has announced a county-wide burn ban. You should not start any open fires. Contact Park Staff for specifics @ 386-775-3663.

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 Colonial American 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 the manatees is not permitted; this rule 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.

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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