Ginnie Springs, Florida: Year-round Fun in Crystal Clear Natural Springs
Hi Steemians!
I absolutely love to travel, and I want to share with you an amazing place called Ginnie Springs located in north-central Florida. Ginnie Springs is an outdoor-enthusiast's dream!
With seven crystal clear, natural spring waters on a 200+ acre site along the Santa Fe River, the property is a haven for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, tubing, kayaking, paddel boarding, hiking, and camping.
Florida's porous limestone allows groundwater to easily escape, forming the springs. The holes in the ground where the water comes from are called "vents." The vent above is from one of the springs on the property called "Dogwood Spring."
How can you be near water this clear and not go swimming? The water in the springs is 72 degrees F/ 22 degrees C year-round. That's cold enough to give you chills on a hot day, but warm enough to keep you warm on a cool day. Central Florida can get pretty hot during the summer, so on the weekends this place is a popular place to cool off. Weekdays are much less crowded. We were there on a busy weekend, but there was plenty of room for everyone.
It's quite common to see funny-looking tubes floating in the streams and going down the Santa Fe River. Tubes, paddle boards, canoes and kayaks can be rented on-site or you can bring your own.
If you like scuba diving, there is a world-class underground cavern system for certified divers ONLY. Be careful, because people have died while exploring the caves.
If you decide to go, make sure you have plenty of gas in your car! The location is pretty remote and there aren't many places to stop along the way. The site does offer a deli if you forget to pack a lunch. You can get other snacks and supplies inside their country store.
For your convenience, restrooms, shower facilities, and pavilions are scattered throughout the property.
There is an admission fee to get in. Be sure to check the rates ahead of time on the Ginnie Springs website as you plan your trip.
I hope you've enjoyed the pictures! If you'd like to go for the day, I'd plan on arriving early and spending an entire day. Campers should call ahead of time to reserve spots.
I am hoping to go to Florida this year and this is something I might consider checking out. thanks for sharing :)
and if you like traveling, you might be interested in our discord channel
Hi @ella-kay! I would love to join the Culture, History, Art, and Travel Discord channel! I tried to join, but when I attempt to claim my account it says my email address has already been registered and it doesn't recognize any of my password attempts. Hopefully I can get this figured out soon. Thank you for your comments and the invitation.
the only requirement is to have verified email. as soon as you do that you are welcome to join :)
let me know if you can't fix it
Nice post. I have been to Florida a couple of times but I haven't heard about Ginnie Springs. Upvoted and following.
Thank you! Florida has hundreds of natural springs to explore. Just watch out for alligators and snakes! I've not seen any yet, but warning signs are posted.
Welcome to Steemit @poimenpost ! :) This place looks fantastic and so much fun :) Well Done!
Thank you, @deborahmack! I'm happy to be a part of the Steemit community where I can explore the world and ideas of so many wonderful people!
You are very welcome! It is a great community and I am sure you will do very well here :)
5.55% @pushup from @poimenpost