Did you know that Wekiwa Springs was Central Florida’s first tourist attraction, discovered in the 1860s long before Disney World and Universal Studios? This crystal-clear spring produces a remarkable 43 million gallons of water daily, maintaining a constant, refreshing temperature of 22°C (72°F) year-round. Today, this natural oasis offers a perfect escape from Orlando’s theme park crowds, just a 30-minute drive from the city center.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Wekiwa Springs State Park is located in Apopka, Florida, approximately 30 minutes northwest of Orlando. The park’s address is 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712. The entrance fee is $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people), $4 for single-occupant vehicles, and $2 for pedestrians or bicyclists.
Nearest Airports
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) – Approximately 45 minutes away
- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) – Approximately 30 minutes away
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Wekiwa Springs maintains a constant water temperature of 22°C (72°F) year-round, making it a refreshing destination even during Florida’s hottest months. However, timing your visit strategically can make a big difference in your experience.
Recommended Seasons
Best Months to Visit
- Late September to November (Fall) – Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds
- March to early May (Spring) – Pleasant weather before summer heat and crowds
- Weekdays year-round – Significantly less crowded than weekends
Months to Avoid
- June to August (Summer weekends) – Extremely crowded, park often reaches capacity by 8:00 AM
- Major holidays – The park frequently closes early due to reaching capacity
- Afternoon visits during summer – Higher chance of thunderstorms
Important Update: Starting March 12, 2025, through September 1, 2025, all day-use visitors will be required to have a reservation to enter the park as part of a pilot program. Plan accordingly and check the official Florida State Parks website for the latest information.
Getting Around Locally
The most convenient way to reach Wekiwa Springs State Park is by car. If you’re visiting from out of town, renting a vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore the park and surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to easily access Wekiwa Springs and discover other natural attractions in Central Florida.
Local Transportation Options
- Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) – Available from Orlando and surrounding areas
- Taxi services – Available but can be costly for round trips
- Bicycle – Some visitors cycle to the park from nearby areas
Once inside the park, all areas are accessible by foot via well-maintained paths and boardwalks. The main swimming area, concession stand, and picnic areas are all within a short walking distance from the parking lot.
Where to Stay
While Wekiwa Springs State Park makes for a perfect day trip from Orlando, staying nearby allows you to arrive early (essential during busy periods) and fully experience the natural beauty of the area. Here are the best accommodation options near the park:
Camping at Wekiwa Springs
The park offers 60 campsites with electricity, water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Camping provides the unique advantage of already being inside the park when it opens, allowing you to enjoy the springs before day visitors arrive.
- Family Campground – 60 sites with water and electric hookups
- Primitive Camping – Available at Camp Cozy and Big Fork (accessible by hiking)
- Canoe/Kayak Camping – Otter Camp and Big Buck Camp (accessible only by water)
Reservations are essential and can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Florida State Parks reservation system.
Nearby Accommodations
Budget Options
Several chain hotels are available in Apopka, just 15 minutes from the park entrance:
- Hilton Garden Inn Apopka City Center
- Hampton Inn & Suites
- Holiday Inn Express
Mid-Range Options
For a more comfortable stay with additional amenities:
- Vacation rentals in Sorrento (20-25 minutes)
- Lakefront cottages with private docks
- Family homes with full kitchens
Unique Stays
For a memorable experience:
- Historic bed & breakfasts in Mount Dora (25-30 minutes)
- Waterfront cottages with kayaks included
- Eco-lodges near Wekiva River
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Dining & Local Cuisine
While Wekiwa Springs State Park has limited dining options within its boundaries, there are several ways to enjoy meals during your visit:
In-Park Dining
- Concession Stand – Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, offering snacks, cold drinks, and on weekends, hot food like burgers and hot dogs
- Picnic Areas – Multiple picnic tables and grills available throughout the park
- Pavilions – Large covered areas with multiple tables that can be reserved for groups
Note that alcoholic beverages are permitted only in the concession area and cannot be brought elsewhere in the park.
Nearby Restaurants
Within a 15-minute drive of the park, you’ll find numerous dining options in Apopka and Longwood:
- Wekiva Island – A popular spot just 1 mile downstream by kayak or canoe, featuring a full bar and food truck
- Rock Springs Bar & Grill – Casual dining with American fare
- Gator’s Dockside – Sports bar with wings and American classics
- The Catfish Place – Local favorite for Southern seafood
- Mount Dora restaurants – For a more upscale dining experience (25-30 minutes away)
Local Tip: Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks for your day at the springs. There are plenty of shaded areas to enjoy a picnic, and it’s more economical than purchasing everything at the concession stand. Just remember to keep all food and drinks away from the spring itself.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a variety of activities centered around its natural features. Here are the top things to do during your visit:
Swimming
The main spring pool is approximately 0.2 hectares (half an acre) in size and averages 1.2 meters (4 feet) in depth. The crystal-clear waters maintain a constant 22°C (72°F) year-round, making it refreshingly cool even during hot Florida summers.
- Swimming is permitted only in the designated spring pool area
- No lifeguards are on duty – swim at your own risk
- Small personal flotation devices are allowed
- No jumping or diving (the water is too shallow)
Snorkeling
The clear spring waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling. Bring your own mask and snorkel to explore the underwater environment and spot fish and turtles. Snorkeling is only permitted in the main spring pool area.
Tubing
One of the most popular activities is tubing down the gentle current of the spring run. You can bring your own tube (single-person size only) or rent one from the concession stand. The tubing run is approximately a 25-minute gentle float back to the springs.
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Paddling Adventures
Exploring the Wekiva River by kayak or canoe is one of the best ways to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife. The river offers several paddling routes suitable for different experience levels:
Paddling Options
- Short Trip – 1.6 km (1 mile) paddle to Wekiva Island (3.2 km/2 miles round trip)
- Medium Trip – 4.8 km (3 miles) to Otter Camp (9.6 km/6 miles round trip)
- Long Trip – Up to 16 km (10 miles) for experienced paddlers
Rental Information
Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent at the park concession. Rental prices (subject to change):
- Single Kayaks: $20 for the first hour, $5 each additional hour
- Tandem Kayaks: $25 for the first hour, $5 each additional hour
- Canoes: $20 for the first hour, $5 each additional hour
You can also launch your own kayak or canoe for no additional fee beyond the park entrance fee.
Paddling Tip: The early morning hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities and calmer waters. Look for turtles, birds, and occasionally alligators (at a safe distance) along the riverbanks.
Hiking Trails & Nature Exploration
Wekiwa Springs State Park features approximately 40 km (25 miles) of trails through diverse Florida ecosystems, from pine flatwoods to palm hammocks. The trails are suitable for hiking, biking, and in some areas, horseback riding.
Popular Trails
- Wet-to-Dry Trail – 0.6 km (0.4 mile) loop with a boardwalk and footbridge over the spring area
- Mill Creek Loop Trail – 5.8 km (3.6 miles) through sand dunes and flatland ecosystems
- Volkmarch Trail – 9.7 km (6 miles) through forested areas (marked with orange blazes)
- Main Hiking Trail – 20 km (12.5 miles) with white blazes through diverse terrain
Trail maps are available at the ranger station upon entry to the park. Be sure to check which trails are open, as prescribed burns and weather conditions can affect accessibility.
Hiking Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes, bring plenty of water, and apply insect repellent. Florida’s humidity can make hiking more strenuous than expected, so pace yourself and take breaks in shaded areas.
Wildlife Viewing
Wekiwa Springs State Park is home to diverse wildlife, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The best times for wildlife viewing are early morning and around sunset.
Common Wildlife Sightings
- Mammals – White-tailed deer, raccoons, and occasionally black bears and bobcats
- Reptiles – Gopher tortoises, various turtle species, and alligators (in the river, not the swimming area)
- Birds – Wild turkeys, woodpeckers, herons, egrets, and many songbird species
- Aquatic Life – Various fish species visible in the clear spring waters
Wildlife Safety: The park is home to black bears and alligators. Never approach, feed, or disturb wildlife. If you encounter a bear, make yourself look large, back away slowly, and provide an exit route for the animal. Keep a safe distance from alligators and other wildlife.
The park is part of the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, making it a designated location for observing Florida’s diverse bird species. Bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Guidelines
- Swim only in designated areas and never alone
- No diving or jumping into the spring (water is too shallow)
- Apply sunscreen regularly – Florida sun is intense
- Stay hydrated, especially during summer months
- Be aware of afternoon thunderstorms during summer
- Follow all posted wildlife safety guidelines
Park Etiquette
- Pack out all trash – leave no trace
- Keep food and drinks away from the spring water
- Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times and are not allowed in the spring
- Alcohol consumption is permitted only in the concession area
- Respect quiet hours in the campground (11 PM to 7 AM)
- Stay on designated trails to protect vegetation and wildlife
Local Custom: Floridians often arrive very early (before park opening) to secure a spot during busy seasons. If visiting during summer or on weekends, plan to arrive at least 30-60 minutes before the park opens at 8 AM to ensure entry before the park reaches capacity.
Visitor Comments About Wekiwa Springs State Park
“We visited Wekiwa Springs during our Orlando vacation to escape the theme parks for a day. The crystal-clear water was incredible – like swimming in a natural pool! We rented kayaks and saw turtles and birds along the river. Definitely arrive early as the park fills up quickly, but it’s worth setting an alarm for this natural paradise.”
“As international tourists, we wanted to see the ‘real Florida’ beyond Disney. Wekiwa Springs was perfect! The water stays 22°C year-round, which felt refreshing after hot weather. We hiked the trails and saw deer and a tortoise. The spring is beautiful for swimming and photographs. A highlight of our Florida trip.”
“Our family loved tubing down the gentle river at Wekiwa Springs. The water is so clear you can see fish swimming beneath you! We packed a picnic lunch and made a full day of it. The nature center was educational for the kids. Much more peaceful than the crowded theme parks and shows a beautiful side of Florida.”
Practical Travel Tips
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towels
- Water shoes or sandals with straps
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Hat and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottles
- Snorkel gear (if desired)
- Small personal flotation device or tube
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- Picnic supplies and cooler
- Cash for entrance fee and concessions
Planning Essentials
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during summer
- Check the Florida State Parks website for any alerts or closures
- Consider weekday visits to avoid crowds
- Bring exact change for the entrance fee if possible
- Download a trail map before your visit
- Charge your phone fully for photos and emergencies
Money-Saving Tip: If you plan to visit multiple Florida State Parks, consider purchasing an Annual Individual Pass ($60) or Family Pass ($120), which provides unlimited entrance to most Florida State Parks for a year.
Your Natural Florida Adventure Awaits
Wekiwa Springs State Park offers a refreshing glimpse into Florida’s natural beauty beyond the famous theme parks. With its crystal-clear springs, lush hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, it provides a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re floating down the gentle river, paddling through shaded waterways, or simply soaking in the constant 22°C (72°F) spring waters, Wekiwa Springs delivers an authentic Florida experience that connects you with the state’s remarkable natural heritage. Plan your visit, arrive early, and prepare to be enchanted by one of Central Florida’s most beloved natural treasures.
The above is subject to change.
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