Wekiwa Springs: Orlando's Secret State Park
What piece of natural Florida is within shouting distance of
Disneyworld, yet worlds away from the ordinary? Where you can
travel back in time to the Florida that once was?
Welcome to Wekiwa Springs State Park, near Orlando, Florida.
Springs of Delight
Wekiwa Springs State Park is well-known by the Orlando
residents, but it's a secret to most visitors. Hidden away in
Apopka, the Springs are a wilderness wonderland.
The most obvious thing about the park is its main spring and
swimming area. The water is crystal clear and makes for some
great snorkeling! But it's a bit on the chilly side, at a cool
70 degrees Fahrenheit year around.
Back in Time
If you want to see what Florida used to look like, before houses
and stores and theme parks took over, take a walk on the trails
at Wekiwa Springs State Park. There are about 17 miles of trails
in the park, so there is plenty of room to roam. You'll share
many of the trails with people on bicycles and horses, but you
may find yourself alone much of the time because...
...of the canoes!
Winding Rivers
Canoeing is the biggest draw at Wekiwa Springs State Park. There
are miles of river to paddle or to simply float down. The water
is clear, the trees make a cool canopy and the sky is blue. You
can start at the head of the springs, paddle down the river and
then take a shuttle back up to "Canoe Beach" - your starting
point.
Campground Tales
There is also camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park, and it's one
of the few Florida State Parks that actually allows pet camping!
Not to worry, there is a campground for people without pets, too.
Want to know More?
If you're planning a Central Florida vacation, consider a side
trip to Wekiwa Springs State Park. Get to know the park the
locals talk about!