Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, Florida: Review

Rainbow Springs Park is an award winning state park located in Dunnellon, Florida. If you thought two dollars doesn't by much these days you would be wrong. Imagine getting a full day of fun for two dollars. You can do it at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, Florida. It is the best deal in town. Admission is $2 per person. Experience the best of nature and enjoy yourself among the breathtaking scenery.

Rainbow Springs is Florida's fourth largest spring. It is one of the top rated parks in the country. You enter the park down a long and winding drive. As you meander through you get glimpses of what lies ahead. Once you go over an old railroad track you are nearly there. The park has several large parking lots to accommodate the busy season. Even the parking lot is surrounded by nature.

As you walk along the paved trail to the gate you may spy turtles, fish in the pond and an array of birds. The majority of the park is wheelchair accessible. The trails may be a bit steep for those using canes but there are many benches along the trails. The views are stunning no matter where you sit.

Volunteers man the gift shop and food court right inside the gate. The toilets are located just past the food court. If you are not the adventurous type you can spend the day taking in the view from the many tables at the food court. They over look the head springs of the Rainbow River. Shade is available during those hot summer days.

Once you descend the steps of the food court you can follow the trails and explore all that Rainbow Springs State Park has to offer. The brave can venture out on the catwalks to see alligators up close. The really courageous can swim with the gators at the head spring. The water is a constant 72 degrees and is crystal clear. The water temperature feels great during the hot steamy summers Florida is known for. No tubes are allowed in the head springs. You can bring your own "noodle" or purchase one at the gift shop. Although the gators rarely come close to the humans be aware of the risk.

In late April and early May the Azaleas are in full bloom. A wide variety of reds, pinks and whites make it an artist landscape. In fact the park is used as the home site for art shows several times a year. On any one day you may see a local artist painting a picturesque scene.

Many people choose to sun themselves on the large area of lawn space. There are two pavilions where you can sit and rest or enjoy your lunch. You can rent a canoe or kayak. Many people choose to snorkel. Group lessons are available. Check with the park for times. Take time to enjoy the Historic Gardens and Butterfly Garden. Recently the park has begun to offer Teen Movie Night for ages 12 to 18. The newly releases movies can be seen every Friday night.

The park head springs are located at 19158 SW 81^st Place Road (US 41). All Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. For more information and directions call (352)465-8555.

If you are willing to shell out a little more cash you can float down the river at the Tubbing Entrance. There is a $5 fee per vehicle up to eight people (children under six are free). You can bring your own tube or rent one. You will be transported two miles up river and float back to where your car is parked. Plan on being in the water about two hours. No plastic bottles are permitted on the river. Stiff fines are given to those who break this law. The new tube entrance is located at 180^th Avenue.

If you are looking to make a vacation for yourself, Rainbow Springs State Park Camping sites are available for $30 per night plus tax. They are located 1.4 miles north of the Tube entrance. The site includes water, sewer and electricity. There is a playground area. The pool is closed for renovation but you can swim at the head springs or float down the river. The campground is comprised of 60 sites in total. Three of the sites are for RV's only. Seven sites are tents only. The remaining fifty sites are mixed use. If you are mobility challenged request a paved area. You can reserve a site at www.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-800-326-3521. To reach the park campsite directly call (352)465-8550. All sites have 20/30/50 amp electrical service. Sewer connection is available at the RV sites.

There are options to fit your budget. Anyway you look at it - it is a bargain! Every day can be a day at the park.