Wekiwa Springs State Park
Crystal-clear water bubbles up from the earth at a constant 72°F. Around you, 7,000 acres of pristine Florida wilderness stretch in every direction—ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss, quiet rivers perfect for paddling, and trails that wind through ecosystems unchanged for centuries. Just 20 minutes from Orlando’s theme parks lies something completely different: Wekiwa Springs State Park, one of Central Florida’s most treasured natural escapes.
Welcome to where Orlando goes when it wants to escape. Since 1970, Wekiwa Springs has offered relief from Florida’s heat and the chaos of modern life. The spring-fed swimming area draws families year-round, while kayakers and canoeists explore the Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run. With over 13 miles of hiking trails, 60 campsites, and wildlife ranging from deer to black bears, this is Florida at its most authentic—and it’s closer to Orlando than most people realize.
What Makes Wekiwa Springs Special
72°F Year-Round
Natural spring-fed pool—perfect swimming any season.
7,000 Acres
Massive wilderness preserve just 20 minutes from Orlando.
Wekiva River
Kayak and canoe through pristine Florida waterways.
Florida Black Bears
One of Central Florida’s best wildlife viewing areas.
⚠️ RESERVATION REQUIRED on Weekends
Wekiwa Springs frequently reaches capacity before noon on weekends and holidays. To avoid being turned away, purchase a day-use entry reservation online at reserve.floridastateparks.org. Reservations open 30 days in advance.
- 📅 Weekends & Holidays: Reservation strongly recommended
- 🌅 Arrive early: Gates open at 8 AM
- 📱 Book online: reserve.floridastateparks.org
Swimming at the Spring
The main spring is Wekiwa Springs itself—a crystal-clear pool fed by water that emerges from underground at a constant 72°F (22°C). The swimming area is the park’s most popular feature, offering relief from Florida’s heat any time of year.
| Swimming Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌡️ Water Temperature | 72°F (22°C) year-round |
| 🏊 Swimming Area | Spring head pool—clear, calm water |
| 🤿 Snorkeling | Allowed at Wekiwa Spring only |
| 🚿 Facilities | Restrooms, changing areas, outdoor showers |
| 🦺 Lifeguards | NOT staffed—swim at your own risk |
Hiking & Biking Trails
With over 13 miles of trails, Wekiwa Springs offers everything from easy nature walks to challenging wilderness hikes:
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥾 Main Hiking Trail | 13.5 mi | Moderate | Hiking only |
| 🚶 Volksmarch Trail | 5.3 mi | Easy | Hiking only |
| 🚴 Bike Trail | 9 mi | Challenging | Mountain bikes |
| 🐴 Tram Bed Horse Trail | 8 mi | Moderate | Horses, hikers, bikes |
Paddling: Wekiva River & Rock Springs Run
The Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run offer some of Central Florida’s best paddling. Rent canoes and kayaks from the park concessionaire or bring your own.
🚣 Paddling Tips
- Rentals available at Wekiwa Springs State Park Nature Adventures
- Rock Springs Run connects to Kelly Park—you can paddle the full 8-mile run
- Morning hours offer calmer water and better wildlife viewing
- Be prepared to portage at some spots—terrain can be uneven
Wildlife & Safety
Wekiwa Springs is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and home to incredible biodiversity:
- 🐻 Florida Black Bears – One of the best areas in Central Florida to spot them
- 🦌 White-tailed Deer – Best viewing at dawn and dusk
- 🦃 Wild Turkeys – Common along trails
- 🐢 River Turtles – Sunning on logs along waterways
- 🐍 Snakes – Including venomous species—stay on trails
- 🐊 Alligators – Present in waterways (see safety below)
🐊 Alligator Awareness
Alligators live in Florida’s freshwater—including Wekiwa’s rivers and springs. While attacks are rare, follow these precautions:
- Never swim at dawn, dusk, or night (when alligators are most active)
- Never feed alligators—it’s illegal and makes them associate humans with food
- Keep children and pets away from the water’s edge
- If you see an alligator, maintain distance and don’t approach
Camping & Lodging
| Site Type | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏕️ Standard Sites | 60 sites with electric & water; some with sewer; fire ring, grill, table |
| 🐴 Big Fork (Equestrian) | Primitive site 1 mi from trailhead; up to 10 campers |
| ⛺ Camp Cozy (Primitive) | 3 mi hike-in only; fire pit, up to 10 campers |
| 🚣 Otter Camp & Big Buck | Paddle-in only on Rock Springs Run; fire rings |
| 🏠 Youth Group Cabins | 13 cabins (10 kids each) + 6 leader cabins; groups only |
When to Visit
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Perfect temperatures. Spring wildflowers blooming. Moderate crowds weekdays, busy weekends. Make reservations for Saturday/Sunday visits.
Best for: Hiking, paddling, wildlife viewing
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot and humid—but the 72°F spring is perfect! Peak crowds. Reservations essential. Park often reaches capacity by 10 AM on weekends.
Best for: Swimming, escape the heat
🍂 Fall (September – November)
Excellent. Crowds thin after Labor Day. Comfortable temperatures. Great for camping and longer hikes.
Best for: Camping, hiking, paddling
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Mild Florida winters. 72°F spring feels warm! Best wildlife viewing (black bears more active). Fewest crowds.
Best for: Wildlife, solitude, photography
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Entry Fee | $6/vehicle (up to 8 people); $4 single-occupant; $2 pedestrians/cyclists |
| 📅 Reservations | RECOMMENDED weekends/holidays at reserve.floridastateparks.org |
| ⏰ Hours | 8 AM – sundown, 365 days/year |
| 🐕 Pets | Allowed on leash (max 6 ft); NOT in swimming area |
| 🚣 Rentals | Canoes & kayaks at concessionaire |
Getting There
- 📍 Address: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
- 📍 From Orlando: 20 minutes north via I-4 and Wekiwa Springs Road
- 📍 From Airport (MCO): 35 minutes northwest
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wekiwa Springs worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s one of Central Florida’s best natural escapes—7,000 acres of wilderness with a crystal-clear 72°F swimming hole, all just 20 minutes from Orlando. Whether you swim, paddle, hike, or camp, it’s worth the trip.
Can I go to Wekiwa Springs without a reservation?
Yes, but not recommended on weekends or holidays. The park frequently reaches capacity before noon. Weekday visits are easier, but reservations guarantee entry. Book at reserve.floridastateparks.org.
Does Wekiwa Springs have manatees?
Manatees can occasionally be spotted in the Wekiva River, especially during cooler months (November–March) when they seek warmer spring-fed waters. However, sightings are less common here than at Blue Spring State Park, which is a designated manatee refuge.
Do I need to worry about alligators at Wekiwa Springs?
Alligators live in Florida’s freshwater ecosystems, including Wekiwa’s rivers. Attacks are rare, but use common sense: don’t swim at dawn/dusk, never feed alligators, and keep pets/children away from the water’s edge. The main spring swimming area is generally safe.
Is it safe to swim in Wekiwa Springs?
Yes. The main spring is a popular swimming area with clear, calm water. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk. The 72°F water is refreshing but can feel cold at first.
How much does it cost to go to Wekiwa Springs?
$6 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. Camping and rentals cost extra.
🌊 Orlando’s Hidden Oasis
Just 20 minutes from the theme parks lies something completely different—7,000 acres of ancient Florida, a crystal-clear spring that stays 72°F year-round, and rivers that wind through wilderness unchanged for centuries. Wekiwa Springs isn’t just a park; it’s proof that natural Florida still exists, and it’s closer than you think. Whether you come to swim, paddle, hike, or just escape, you’ll leave understanding why locals have treasured this place since 1970.
📍 Address: 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
📞 Phone: (407) 553-4383
