Manager's Message
Fall is in the air! As the weather cools we look forward to the arrival of migratory species including the not so elusive, fun and friendly snow birds. This is a great time for hiking and bird watching, and general enjoyment of the beauty of the springs.
For those who like the energy of springs swimming in cooler weather, please enjoy the clear water and remember to let manatees have the swimming area to themselves when they are present. They can be viewed more readily from outside the water. If you are a SCUBA diver, proof of certification is required and you must have a buddy. Again, if manatees are present in the spring, SCUBA diving is not allowed. Catfish sink is open for diving and manatees are not able to enter that location.
PARK CONCESSIONS ARE OPEN.
Suwannee Guides & Outfitters provide food service, camp store, canoe/kayak rentals and pontoon boat tours of the river. During the fall and winter they are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. You may contact Suwannee Guides & Outfitters at 352-542-8331 for information about park operations as well as Suwannee River opportunities.
Quiet relaxation and active bird watching are golden opportunities to be found in this beautiful park on the Suwannee River. This is a great time to hike our 8 mile trail system through upland pine communities and bottomland cypress swamps.
High water events can impact recreational activities so call the park to check conditions if you have heard of recent heavy rains.
Be prepared in order to maximize the comfort of your outdoor adventure. Have plenty of drinking water, protective clothing, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Manatee Springs is a place to escape from technology! Cell phones and satellite dishes have limited to no use here in this river bottomland area. Take advantage of this opportunity to escape your hectic lifestyle, slow down, reduce stress and experience nature. Relax..Renew...Re-create yourself.
- Sally Lieb, Park Manager
Welcome to Manatee Springs State Park
A first magnitude spring, Manatee Springs discharges an average 100 million gallons of water every day. This water comes from rain that falls on lands within a 40 mile radius from the spring. Geologically the surrounding lands resemble a sponge, with sand and the underlying limestone quickly transferring rainfall into deep caverns that deliver the water to the spring from every direction, but mostly from the south and east. The spring is a source of life for many species of fish, reptiles, mammals, birds and invertebrates. From November through April, manatees use the spring's life-giving waters for warmth. During those months the Suwannee River and Gulf of Mexico waters are colder than the constant 72 degrees of the spring. Popular for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, the headwaters of the spring are an outstanding year-round experience for people as well. The spring run forms a sparkling stream that meanders through towering cypress, tupelo and other wetland trees to join the Suwannee River. During the summer months, huge prehistoric-looking Gulf sturgeon can be seen leaping out of the river as they have done for eons. Enjoy the spring run view by canoe/kayak or on foot along our boardwalk. Children can enjoy a playground in the picnic area, where tables, grills and pavilions are available for family fun. Hiking and biking adventures await on the north end trail system. The full-facility campground is surrounded by hardwood hammocks and upland pine habitats.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Manatee Springs State Park, please call 352-493-6072.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Manatee Springs State Park is located at the end of S.R. 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$6.00 per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$4.00 Single Occupant Vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
$15.00 per person, plus tax, Diving: spring, open water and cave diving. All divers are required to register with the office prior to diving.
Pavilion Rental Fee:
$35.00 per day plus tax. There are six picnic tables at each pavilion. Water and electricity are available at each pavilion and is included in the rental fee.
Camping Fee:
$20.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity.
Organized Youth and Adult Group Camping:
$1.00 per youth, per night.
$5.00 per adult/chaperon, per night.
Manatee Springs State Park
11650 N.W. 115th St.
Chiefland, Florida 32626
Phone: 352-493-6072
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of Manatee Springs Parks, Inc.
11650 N.W. 115th Street
Chiefland, FL 32626
Visitor Service Provider
