Blue Spring State Park Camping is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Old Florida. Located in Orange City, Florida, the park is situated along the St. Johns River and is one of the most popular Florida State Parks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
The highlight of Blue Springs State Park is undoubtedly the crystal-clear, 73-degree water that flows from the park’s main spring. The spring is a designated manatee refuge and is home to hundreds of these gentle giants during the winter months.
Visitors can observe the manatees from a boardwalk or take a guided tour to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Blue Spring State Park Camping Facilities
Blue Spring State Park offers a variety of camping facilities for visitors to choose from. Whether you prefer to camp in a tent, RV, or cabin, there are options available to suit your needs.
Campground Sites
The park has a total of 51 campsites available for reservation. All campsites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms and hot showers. The campground is located near the river and offers scenic views of the water.
Cabins
For those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience, Blue Spring State Park offers two cabins. Each cabin can accommodate up to six people and features air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a screened porch. Linens are not provided, so visitors must bring their own bedding.
Group Cabins
The park also offers two group cabins that can accommodate up to 16 people each. These cabins feature air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a screened porch. Linens are not provided, so visitors must bring their own bedding.
Standard (Tent/RV) Sites
In addition to the campground sites, the park offers 18 standard sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs. These sites are equipped with water and electric hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms and hot showers.
RV Sites
For visitors with larger RVs, Blue Spring State Park offers 18 RV sites with full hookups. These sites are equipped with water, sewer, and electric hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms and hot showers.
The park also offers ADA accessible camping facilities, including campsites and restrooms. All camping facilities are reservable and can be booked online or by calling the park office.
Blue Spring State Park Amenities
Blue Spring State Park Camping offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the amenities available at the park:
Picnic Areas
The park has several picnic areas that are perfect for a family picnic or a group outing. These areas are equipped with picnic tables and trash cans, and some of them also have grills and fireplaces.
Grill and Fireplace
If you’re planning to cook your own food, you can make use of the grills and fireplaces available at the picnic areas. Firewood is also available for purchase at the park.
Showers and Toilets
Blue Spring State Park Camping has shower facilities and toilets available for campers. The toilets are well-maintained and cleaned regularly.
Electric and Water Hookups
The park has electric and water hookups available for RVs and campers. These hookups are conveniently located throughout the park.
Gift Shop and Market
The park has a gift shop and market where you can purchase souvenirs, snacks, and other camping essentials. The market also sells firewood and ice.
Blue Spring State Park Outdoor Activities
From hiking and trails to water sports and fishing, there is something at Blue Spring State Park for everyone.
Hiking and Trails
The park has several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and length, ranging from the easy 0.8-mile Pine Island Trail to the more challenging 4.5-mile Wild Persimmon Trail. These trails offer scenic views of the park’s natural beauty and provide opportunities to observe wildlife.
Water Sports
Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports at Blue Spring State Park, including canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The park’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for exploring the underwater world and observing the diverse marine life.
Blue Spring State Park Wildlife
Blue Spring State Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to see a variety of animals during their stay, including manatees, birds, and fish.
Manatees
One of the main attractions of Blue Spring State Park is the West Indian Manatee. These gentle giants can be seen swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the spring. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the manatees, as they are an endangered species and are protected by law.
Birds
Blue Spring State Park is also a haven for wading birds, ospreys, and eagles. Visitors can spot these majestic creatures soaring through the sky or perched on a nearby tree. The park provides an excellent opportunity for birdwatching, so be sure to bring your binoculars.
Fish
The crystal-clear waters of Blue Spring are teeming with fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to catch a variety of species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing is allowed in designated areas of the park, so be sure to check the regulations before casting your line.
Park Rules and Regulations
Blue Spring State Park has several rules and regulations that visitors must follow to ensure the safety of everyone and the preservation of the park’s natural resources. Here are some of the important rules to keep in mind:
Pets
Pets are allowed in designated areas of the park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Visitors must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in designated trash receptacles. Pets are not allowed in swimming areas, playgrounds, or other posted areas.
Alcohol
Alcohol is permitted in the park, but only in designated areas such as campsites and picnic areas. Glass containers are not allowed in the park. Visitors are expected to drink responsibly and not disturb other park guests.
Fires
Fires are only allowed in designated areas such as fire rings or grills. Visitors are not allowed to gather firewood from the park or surrounding areas. All fires must be completely extinguished before leaving the area.
Sanitary Dump
The park has a sanitary dump station for RVs and campers. Visitors must dispose of waste properly and not dump any waste on the ground or in the water.
Visitors who violate any of these rules may be subject to fines or expulsion from the park. It is important to follow these rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Historical Significance
Blue Spring State Park has a rich historical significance that dates back centuries.
Thursby House
Thursby House is a historical landmark located within the park. It was built in 1872 by Louis Thursby, a prominent businessman in the area. The house was used as a winter home for the Thursby family until the 1930s. The house is an excellent example of Florida vernacular architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Thursby House is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore the house’s interior, which has been restored to its original appearance, and view exhibits showcasing the history of the area.
Native Americans
The St. Johns River basin has been inhabited by Native Americans for over 12,000 years. The Timucua people were the first known inhabitants of the area.
They were a semi-nomadic tribe that relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering for survival. The Timucua people lived in the area until the 18th century when they were wiped out by European diseases and warfare.
The park’s location along the St. Johns River basin made it an essential site for Native American trading and travel. The river was a vital transportation route for the Timucua people, who used it to trade with other tribes and access resources.
Wrapping up Blue Spring State Park Camping
Camping at Blue Springs State Park is a unique experience, with many campsites available for both tents and RVs. The sites are nestled among the trees and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and the chance to observe wild manatees in their natural environment is an experience you won’t forget!
Looking for other state parks to visit on your trip? Check out A Guide to Florida State Parks Camping for ideas!
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Hey there, I’m Ryan, the face behind Beyond The Tent.
With decades of camping experiences, my journey into the wilderness began on the rustic trails of a farm in southern Minnesota, where my childhood was filled with explorations and camping by a picturesque river.
My family’s adventures across the United States, from the majestic Colorado mountains to the serene national parks and the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Northern Minnesota have given me a broad perspective. With each journey, whether in state parks or private encampments, and through the homely comfort of our camping trailers, we’ve amassed a trove of stories, experiences, and invaluable camping wisdom.