Main Page - Manatee Springs State Park

A white-tailed deer stares directly
at the camera as he poses in a wooded area.

Manager's Message

Callin' out around the world, are you ready for a chilly zing? Summer's here and the time is right for swimming in the spring! Take a break from the heat with a refreshing swim in 72 degrees of crystal clear spring water.

Quiet relaxation can be found in this beautiful park throughout the week, expect more people, more action and fun on weekends.

Check out all the diverse recreational activities available in this park. If you are a SCUBA diver, proof of certification is required and you must have a buddy. Canoe and kayak rentals and food concessions are available at the Manatee Cafe; call Suwannee River Tours at 352-490-0909 to check availability during your visit. During heavy rain events, flooding can occur suddenly so please call the park before your visit to confirm that springs swimming is available.

Enjoy hiking our 8 miles of woodland trails or a trip down the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail by canoe or kayak. Biting insects, sudden thunderstorms, and hot sun can be expected, so come prepared in order to maximize the comfort of your outdoor adventure.

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 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. A concession provides beverages, snacks and canoe/kayak rentals. 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. Reserve a canoe or kayak by calling Suwannee River Tours at (352) 490-0909. Located at the end of State Road 320, off U.S. 98, six miles west of Chiefland.

Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Manatee Springs State Park, please call 352-493-6072.

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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 - $4.00 per vehicle (up to 8 people). Children five years and younger are admitted free with paid adult.

Single Car Occupant - $3.00

Motorcycle Fee (one or two persons) - $3.00

Diving Fee - The fee for spring diving, open water, and cave diving is $10.00 plus tax. All divers are required to register with the office prior to diving.

Pavilion Rental Fee - $30.00 per day plus tax. There are 6 picnic tables at each pavilion. Water and electricity are available at each pavilion and is included in the rental fee.

Organized Youth and Adult Group Camping - $1.00 per youth. $2.00 per adult/chaperon.