Rainbow
Springs State Park
Florida's
third largest spring, Rainbow Springs pump 600 million gallons of
water daily and serves as the headwater to the pristine Rainbow River.
Operated for four decades as an attraction, the property was acquired
by the State Park Service in 1990 and is slowly being allowed to revert
to its natural state. Beautiful floral gardens surround the spring,
and the area is immensely popular in the spring when the azaleas are
in bloom. The state also acquired Rainbow Springs State Campground,
located nearby, which was formerly privately owned. From the campground,
you can tube or canoe the crystalline waters of Rainbow River, or
fish for largemouth bass and other freshwater species.
Especially popular in the warmer
months, the cool clear waters of the springs attract swimmers of
all ages. A picnic area is located in an area overlooking the main
spring and swimming area, with grills, tables and covered pavilions
available. A nature trail provides a leisurely 20-minute walk past
two waterfalls and the azalea gardens, and meanders along the Rainbow
River.
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