The Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, Florida is a refuge for the manatees; in the wintertime the West Indian Manatees migrate to the park area in the St. Johns River. The average temperature of the spring is 73 degrees, perfect for scuba divers, snorkelers and swimmers. Scuba divers must be certified and dive with a partner. Swimming isn't allowed in the area where the manatees swim, but you can swim in the areas designated for swimming.
Bring a picnic lunch, and put on a bathing suit and have fun in the spring. The park tends to get overcrowded, and if the crowd gets to be more than the park's designated capacity it will temporarily close until the numbers of people decrease. If you would like to visit the park early or come later in the afternoon. The park is less crowded during the week, so if you have a chance to come during the week, you might find the park less crowded.
If you plan to spend a weekend at Blue Spring State Park, you will need to make reservation. The campground has full facilities for RV's, and campers, as well as more primative facilities for people using tents. There are also log cabins with air conditioning.
Birdwatcher enthusiasts, be sure to pack your binoculars, and bring or rent a bicycle if you would love to see nature at its best. During the summer you might see Florida Scrub Jays and other birds native to the area singing to each other, learning to fly and behaving naturally in their natural habitat.
Come celebrate Florida's beloved and endangered manatees with the annual festival held in their honor that features refreshments, arts & crafts booths, live entertainment and environmental presentations.
