Wekiwa Springs State Park

Once inhabited by the Native American Timuctuan Indians, these fertile fishing and hunting lands provide everything these early Americans needed to survive. Today, they are inhabited by the native plants and animals that are slowing shrinking as land development expands in this part of the state. Come visit the wilderness in a relatively close proximity to developed areas at this amazingly beautiful Florida state park.

Wekiwa Springs State Park is home to the headwaters of the Wekiva River. This distinctly different named river and spring is host to numerous outdoor activities. Probably one of the most popular is canoeing and kayaking down the spring run. Many people use this as a starting point and ending point to the Rock Springs Run. Primitive campsites along the route allow guests to camp in the backcountry and extend their canoe/kayak trip overnight.

Summer months mean this spring is packed. Man, woman and child alike venture from the nearby cities to cool off in these crystal clear waters. The winter months offer 72 degree water perfect for snorkeling in a wetsuit.

A full-facility 60 site campground offers guests a place to relax in the evening after a long day of outdoor adventure. Sites include electricity, water, picnic tables and a fire ring/grill. These sites are separated by natural barriers of native scrub pine allowing each site to feel secluded.

A primitive campsite is just a few miles hike from the entrance gate at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Park your car at the parking area and hike in the whole family for a fun night roughing it in the backcountry of the park. Youth sites for groups are also available as well. Check out the link at the bottom of the article for more details on reservations.

If you feel like a hike, the nearly twelve miles of hiking trails are certain to give you plenty of opportunities to strap on your hiking boots and break out the map and compass. Several trails loop back to their beginning, allowing adventurers to plan a variety of hikes suited to their level of fitness. Feel like going a bit faster? Ride your off-road bicycle down anyone of the shared multi-use trails.

Horseback riders can enjoy their own set of trails at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Eight miles of loop trails down an old railroad bed provides flat and clear riding for hours on end. A horse camp area is set up for those who would like to spend and overnight adventure with their four legged friends.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operation and fees, visit the Wekiwa Springs State Park official website here.