Blue Spring State Park
Encounter the gentle giants we call Manatees
Welcome to Blue Spring State Park
The refreshing 72-degree waters of Blue Spring greet visitors at this gem along the St. Johns River.
Conservation measures can produce astounding results. In 1970, two years before Blue Spring State Park was established, researchers tracked 14 manatees in the spring run. By 2005, after years of park improvements and manatee protection efforts, wintering manatee numbers exceeded 200, and by 2023 that number skyrocketed to a record 729.
Besides "sea cows," fish abound in the spring run and attract a variety of wading birds, ospreys, eagles and kingfishers. To see the park’s wonders, visitors can hike along the spring run or on the 4.5-mile Pine Island Trail.
Visitors can also launch a canoe or kayak (rentals are available at the park) or take a guided river boat cruise.
Plan Your Visit
Blue Spring Leaping Deer in the Scrub
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Black Bear on the Pine Island Trail
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