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Front of Main Visitors Center at De Leon Sorings

De Leon Springs State Park

Over 6,000 years of cultural and natural history in one stunning location

Know Before You Go

During periods of high visitation, visitors may experience long lines to enter De Leon Springs State Park. The park frequently reaches capacity and may temporarily close. Closures occur intermittently and for an unknown duration of time. Pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed to enter until the park reopens. Thank you.  

Hours

8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year

Fees

$6 per vehicle

See all fees

Location

601 Ponce De Leon Blvd.
De Leon Springs FL 32130

Get directions

Contact Info

386-985-4212

Park Menu

  • Hours & Fees
  • Experiences & Amenities
  • Old Sugar Mill Pancake House
  • Events
  • History
Download Park Map

Welcome to De Leon Springs State Park

Visitors enjoy a Florida experience that includes a recreational swimming area and a fascinating history.

Pay Online, Single-Use Day Pass

Once called Acuera, or “Healing Waters,” by Mayaca Indians who inhabited the area, De Leon Springs is a place to cool off in clear waters, roam trails through a lush subtropical forest that features a massive old-growth bald cypress tree, and immerse oneself in a rich history. The spring run was once used to turn a sugar cane mill followed by a grist mill to turn corn into flour during the Civil War.

The famous naturalist John James Audubon visited the springs in 1831. “This spring presents a circular basin, having a diameter of about 60 feet, from the center of which the water is thrown up with great force, although it does not rise to a height of more than a few inches above the general level,” he wrote in his journal.

Today, thanks to state park protection, Audubon’s description still rings true.

Plan Your Visit

Rene Acuna, manager
Learn

Manager's Message

De Leon Springs State Park is known for its swimming area and restaurant, but not many people know there is also a rich cultural history here. Interpretive panels offer a glimpse into the nearly 6,000 years of human history at this park.
Eco/Heritage Boat Tour
Service

Eco/Heritage Boat Tour at De Leon Springs

The Fountain of Youth Eco/Heritage tour departs four times daily. This 50-minute trip travels through De Leon Springs State Park and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. 
Visitors around the spring at De Leon
Learn

Swimming at De Leon Springs

Escape the summer heat at De Leon Springs State Park and swim in our refreshing 72-degree spring water where depths range from 18 inches to 30 feet at the spring boil.

Experiences

Birding
Birding
Boat Tours
Boat Tours
Boating
Boating
Fishing
Fishing
Hiking
Hiking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Swimming
Swimming
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Accessible Amenities
Accessible Amenities
Boat Ramp
Boat Ramp
Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Concession and Restaurant
Concession and Restaurant
Historic Site
Historic Site
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Nature Trail
Nature Trail
Parking
Parking
Pets
Pets
Picnic Pavilion
Picnic Pavilion
Restroom Facilities
Restroom Facilities
Shower Station
Shower Station
Visitor Center
Visitor Center

De Leon Springs State Park Photo Gallery

Sunset at De Leon Springs
De Leon Springs
Kayaking at De Leon
Limpkin Twins sitting in grass
Old Sugar Mill
View into spring water
A view of all the guests enjoying the springs
Black and White photo of people standing on the De Leon Springs sugar mill wheel
Learn

Many Layers of History at De Leon Springs

One common element has attracted and fascinated people for more than 6,000 years — the spring. It has been the area’s lifeblood, providing drinking water, a rich food source, access to waterways, mill and electrical power, health and economic benefits, and recreation.
A view of the welcome center at de leon springs in front of the water.
Learn

Springs at De Leon

A visit to De Leon Springs can be an invigorating experience and why people have been drawn to these waters for centuries, seeking out it's clear waters to revitalize the mind and body.

People Make the Parks

Park Ranger Jay Stone smiling at the camera

Staff Spotlight

Jay has immersed himself in learning all about the vast history of the park and is now the park historian.
De Leon Springs volunteer Joe Salem smiling for the camera

Volunteer Spotlight

Joe started volunteering in May 2014 and has now contributed approximately 3,500 volunteer hours to De Leon Springs State Park!
The Friends group standing in front of a banner,

Friends of De Leon Springs State Park

In 1995, dedicated volunteers formed the official friends group to support the park’s historical, educational and ecological goals.

This Park is Recognized by:

Native American Heritage Trail
Viva Florida 500

Park Map

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Ravine Gardens State Park

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1600 Twigg St.
Palatka FL 32177

Boy enjoying Wekiwa Springs State Park

Wekiwa Springs State Park

With emerald springs feeding the Wekiwa River and lush tropical hammocks, this unique park just minutes from downtown Orlando is perfect for observing abundant wildlife or cooling off on a summer day. Miles of trails beg to be explored on foot, bike or horseback, and canoes and kayaks are available on-site.

1800 Wekiwa Circle
Apopka FL 32712

A man rides a bicycle at Felburn Park on the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway.

Felburn Park

Located just east of U.S. 19 on the south side of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, Felburn Park has paved parking, potable water, several picnic pavilions, a small playground and access to paved trails along the barge canal.

10201 N. Suncoast Blvd.
Crystal River FL 34428

Florida State Parks

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Contact the Statewide Information Line:
(850) 245-2157

Or send an email to:
FSP.Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov

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