Blue Spring State Park
2100 West French Avenue
Orange City, Florida 32763
Phone: 386-775-3663
The largest spring on the St. Johns River, Blue Spring is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home (mid-November through March) to a growing population of West Indian Manatees. For centuries, the spring area was home for Native Americans. In 1766 it was visited by Colonial American botanist John Bartram, but it wasn´t until 1856 that it was settled by Louis Thursby and his family. The Thursby house, built in 1872, remains standing. The spring´s crystal clear, 73 degree water can be enjoyed by swimmers, snorkelers, and certified scuba divers with a partner. Swimming or diving with manatees is not permitted and is strictly enforced. The river is popular for fishing, canoeing, and boating.
Park Activities
- Boat Tours
- Cabins
- Canoeing & Kayaking
- Concessions/Restaurant
- Facilities
- Full Camping Facilities
- Interpretive Exhibit
- Nature Trails
- Pet Camping
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Scuba
- Tubing
- Wildlife Viewing
Hours of Operation The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. Campers who plan to arrive after sunset should call the park on the day of arrival to obtain the gate combination and instructions.
Park Fees
Admission Fees $6.00 per vehicle; 2-8 people
$4.00 per single-occupant vehicle
$2.00 for Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Extra Passengers, Passengers In Vehicles With Holder of Annual Individual Entrance Permit
Camping Fee - $24.00 (plus tax) per night. Florida residents aged 65 or older, or who hold a social-security disability certificate or a 100 percent disability award certificate from the federal government, can receive a 50 percent discount.
Cabin Fee - $95.00 (plus tax) per night