Spring Break In Ginnie Springs Outdoors
Spring break is coming soon for college and high school students, making it the perfect time to jump into some 72 degree water. With that in mind, Ginnie Springs in High Springs, Florida provides the perfect escape from your school-time blues.
When arriving at the site, you will be greeted by a lodge full of staff ready to make your day, or weekend, full of fun. You will receive a map of the park, complete with multiple springs, campsites and a river.
At Ginnie Springs, there are various ways to get your body is some cool water. The park has five different springs that visitors can swim and snorkel in. Whether you tread water or dive deep to see the fish, bring flippers, a snorkel or goggles in order to enhance your vision, breathing and swimming. The tools are not required to swim in the springs or river, but are helpful when it comes to exploring.
Scuba divers are welcome. If you have a diving license, you can swim down to the caverns at the bottom of the spring, seeing more animals and natural underwater architecture. Whether you dive or swim, fish, turtles and fresh water from the Florida Aquifer will surround you.
The springs are located off of the Santa Fe River, which is also offers water-ful activities. Travel down the river in a kayak, tube or canoe—all available for renting- or you can bring your own!
If you are planning a weekend getaway, bring your RV or tent and camp out at Ginnie Springs Outdoors. The park has electrical hook-ups and plenty of room for your family or friends, though electric and water campsites are an additional $10 per-site, per-night. Many of the camp sites are located within walking distance of a spring or the river. Camping fees are $20.40 per adult and $6 for children 7-14 years old.
Next to the springs are volleyball courts, picnic tables and restrooms equipped with showers. One of the major perks of visiting Ginnie Springs Outdoors is that they allow alcohol! That’s right. Bring your booze and take a ride down the river and soak up the sun.
Ginnie Springs Outdoors is located 15 minutes off of I-75 in north Florida. Daily admission is $12 per adult and $3 for children 7-14. The park is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Hours change for the winter season.
Visit ginniespringsoutdoors.com to plan your visit!
Photo courtesy of Kaitlin White
