Take a trip back in time with a visit to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. The park, which is located in Hernando County, Florida, is only 56 miles north of Tampa and 92 miles west of Orlando.
This historic site is home to the world-famous Weeki Wachee Mermaids and one of the deepest freshwater cave systems in the country. Guests enjoy watching the live mermaid show, sliding down the waterslides and riding the flume at Buccaneer Bay, and taking a boat tour to learn more about the diverse nature and wildlife in this beautiful Florida state park.
Activities
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a fun place to spend the day! Come for the shows and then relax on the deck overlooking the spring. Concessions are available inside the park in several locations so that visitors can stop and have an ice cream or meal and refuel for more adventure. And also pick up souvenirs from their visit.
In addition to the live Mermaid shows, the park also features animal encounters for guests to get a closer look at Florida’s native wildlife such as snakes, alligators and sea creatures.
Here are some of the many activities that you can do during your visit to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park:
Mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Mermaids have been performing at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park since 1947. The owner at that time, Newton Perry, hired and trained ‘mermaids’ to perform synchronized underwater dancing. And Weeki Wachee Springs quickly became a roadside attraction with visitors from all over and girls from as far away as Tokyo with a dream of becoming a mermaid.
Today this 1,000 acre park features a 400-seat submerged theater for watching the live mermaid show.
Boating at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Experience the beauty of the springs and learn more about the river and wildlife in and around the springs by taking a river boat tour. Or kayak and discover this peaceful spot for yourself. Kayak rentals are available inside the park.
Swimming at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Enjoy the refreshing and clear water of the spring while you swim at Buccaneer Bay. Buccaneer Bay also has a beautiful white sandy beach and beach chairs for guests to make the most of their stay at Weeki Wachee Springs.
The seasonal park, which also includes water slides, is open from early April until September. This theme style waterpark is fun for the whole family!
Birding at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
See both native and migrating birds during your visit to Weeki Wachee Springs State park. Some birds you may see include wood ducks, mallards, osprey, wild turkeys, doves, hummingbirds, pelicans, egrets, herons, owls, ibis, willets, gulls, hawks, eagles, woodpeckers, crows, sparrows and vireos.
Nature and Wildlife at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
You’ll see a variety of wildlife during your visit to Weeki Wachee Springs State park. Keep an eye out for frogs, snakes, lizards, turtles, otters, West Indian manatees, alligators, fish, waterfowl, raptors and songbirds. And since the water in the spring is so clear it’s easy for spectators to see the rich and varied wildlife within.
Pets at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Pets are not allowed at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Service animals are permitted throughout all state parks.
Camping near Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Looking for a place to camp near Weeki Wachee Springs State Park? While the park does not have such accommodations there are many options nearby whether you’re hoping to stay in your tent or RV, a cabin, hotel or B & B.
Here are a couple of campgrounds close to Weeki Wachee Springs:
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Frontier Campground – 15549 cortez Blvd, Brooksville
Only 3 miles from the park, this family campground has 75 partly shaded campsites with full hookups. Wifi and a pool are included in the amenities.
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Pacifica River Oaks – 22329 Cortez Blvd, Brooksville
Also nearby with 69 shaded campsites, full hookups, picnic tables, wifi, bathhouses, laundry, dog park, vending machines, garden and clubhouse, bbq grills and a fire pit. And pets are welcome.
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Clover Leaf Forest RV Resort – 910 N. Broad St, Brooksville
Nearby resort style RV park with 277 full hookup sites set in a serene country setting. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, hot tub, laundry, shuffleboard, and cable tv/satellite/wifi. They are also pet friendly.
Park Location
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
6131 Commercial Way
Spring Hill, FL 34606
Phone: 352.610.5660
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park:
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