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Florida
17

Florida State Parks

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USA Parks
Florida
Central Region
Wekiwa Springs State Park
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Wekiwa Springs State Park © Ebyabe / CC-BY-SA-3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Springs swimming area in Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Florida
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Ebyabe / CC-BY-SA-3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Entrance to Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Florida
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Bart Everson / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Wekiwa Springs State Park, Florida
Wekiwa Springs State Park © rampartgeneral / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Canoeing on Wekiva River in Florida.
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Mwanner at en.wikipedia / CC-BY-SA-3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Limpkin - Wekiwa State Park.Taken by UserMwanner, 16 January, 2007.
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Cleveland Cox
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Cleveland Cox
Wekiwa Springs State Park © Cleveland Cox
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WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK
WEKIWA SPRINGS STATE PARK
1800 Wekiwa Circle
Apopka, Florida   32712

Phone: 407-884-2008
Reservations: 800-326-3521
Located at the headwaters of the Wekiva River, the beautiful vistas within this park offer a glimpse of what Central Florida looked like when Timucuan Indians fished and hunted these lands. Just one hour from most central Florida attractions, Wekiwa Springs offers visitors the opportunity to relax in a natural setting, enjoy a picnic, or take a swim in the cool spring. Canoeists and kayakers can paddle along the Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run. Thirteen miles of trails provide opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Options for camping include a full facility campground and primitive camping areas. Canoe and kayak rentals are available. For information about rentals, call (407) 884 4311.
History of the Area
Early Indians are believed to be the first to live in this area, beginning around 8500 BC and continuing until they were forced out in the 1800's. They left a number of mounds that are still visible today

In the mid 1800's, this area was used primarily for farming and milling. After the Civil War, the tourism industry arrived and a hotel and other attractions were constructed at the spring. These operated until the Great Depression.

Turpentining was an important economic activity in the late 1800's and continued until the late 1930's. The grooves turpentiners cut into the tree to make their extractions resemble a cat's whiskers. These Cat faces can still be seen on some of our very old pine trees. This area was heavily timbered in the 1930's as well. Old logging roads and railroad grades left by the logging companies can still be seen today.

In 1941, the Apopka Sportsmen's Club purchased the property from the Wilson Cypress Company and maintained the area for recreational use. In 1969, the state of Florida purchased the property for use as a state park and since it opened in 1970 visitors from all over the country and all over the world have been enjoying this patch of the Real Florida
Passes
Annual Entrance Passes can be purchased at all park ranger stations and museums. If you require immediate use of your pass, this is the best option. Passes can be purchased during regular business hours 365 days a year. Please call the park in advance to ensure availability. Those who are eligible for discounted or free passes may use this method to receive their pass. Annual Entrance Passes may be purchased online by visiting the FLORIDA STATE PARKS ANNUALENTRANCE PASSES web page.
Camping
Full Facility Camping:

Wekiwa Springs State Park has sixty (60) campsites. Each campsite has water, electricity, in-ground fire circle with a grill and a picnic table. There are two restroom facilities with showers. The sites do not have sewer hook-ups but there is a dump station conveniently located at the campground. Reservations can be made up to eleven (11) months in advance of the day you wish to arrive. All reservations for campsites except for next day reservations must be made by calling Reserve America, toll free, at (800) 326-3521. Next day reservations can be made by calling the park at (407) 884-2008. Wekiwa Springs State Park also offers the Bedtime Story Camper Lending Library of picture books for campers aged four to nine. From black bears to insects, the Lending Library is a fun way to enhance your child's experience in the Real Florida. For a quiet afternoon or bedtime, share a story with your child to help explain the sights and sounds of Wekiwa Springs. Ask the Ranger Station for more information.

Canoe Camping:

There are two campsites in Wekiwa Springs State Park that can only be accessed by canoe or kayak.

Otter Camp and Big Buck Camp are located on beautiful Rock Springs Run. Travel to either site can begin from any livery along the Wekiva River or inside Wekiwa Springs State Park. Please see the Canoe Map on the right side of this screen for site locations.

These campsites are primitive. Both sites have fire rings and can accommodate up to ten people each. Pets are not permitted at these campsites. Rates are $4.00 per person, per night plus tax.

Reservations for these sites are required and can be made no more than 60 days in advance. Call 407-884-2008 to make reservations.

Campers are required to be at the canoe camp site at least two hours before park closing to be permitted to camp. Campers have no vehicle access to these sites.

Canoes and kayaks can be rented inside Wekiwa Springs State Park or at other liveries along Rock Springs Run and the Wekiva River. You can even plan trips to include other canoe sites located in Rock Springs Run State Reserve. Further information on overnight canoe or kayak rentals, shuttles, or guided trips can be obtained by calling our canoe rental stand at (407) 884-4311 or visiting their website, Nature Adventures.

Please see the travel times provided in the Canoeing and Kayaking section below which can be used in conjunction with the Canoe Map to help plan your trip.
Swimming
Swim or snorkel in crystal clear Wekiwa Springs where the water is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. The spring is located in a natural setting perfect for spreading a blanket and having a picnic. Individual size flotation devices are allowed in the swimming area. Children and non-swimmers should be accompanied by an adult swimmer at all times. Diving and jumping are not permitted. Swimming is not permitted in Wekiwa Springs Run, Rock Springs Run or the Wekiva River. The swimming area is open from 8:00 a.m. until park closing.

No lifeguards are on duty. Snorkelers and swimmers do so at their own risk.
Boating
Visitors can enjoy a variety of boating options. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, with rentals available on-site for those who don't have their own equipment. Paddling down the Wekiva River or Rock Springs Run offers opportunities to see wildlife such as turtles, alligators, birds and more in their natural habitat. Motorized boats aren't allowed within park boundaries to preserve its tranquility and protect local fauna.

Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run. Species include largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill and longnose gar. Fishing from a canoe or kayak is popular here but shoreline fishing spots are also available. A valid Florida freshwater fishing license may be required for those over 16 years old.

Canoeing
Canoeing & Kayaking

Enjoy one of the most beautiful areas of the park by canoe or kayak out on the Wekiva River or Rock Springs Run. You can begin your trip inside the park or enter the park from any launch site along the Wekiva River or Rock Springs Run. Entrance fees are just $2.00 when entering via Wekiwa Springs Run. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at our concession. Guided trips and shuttles are also available. Visit their website, Nature Adventures, or call them at (407) 884-4311. Please canoe or kayak responsibly and respect the park and wildlife. The travel times provided here can be used in conjunction with the Canoe Map on the right side of this screen to help plan your trip. These are approximated downstream travel times. To approximate travel upstream, multiply the downstream travel time by one and a half.


Location
Wekiwa Springs State Park is located near Altamonte Springs, Apopka and Casselberry

Picnicking
A picnic area including picnic tables and grills is located near the spring. A playground, volleyball court and horseshoe pit are also located in this area. Picnic tables are also provided at Sand Lake.

There are two pavilions that are available for groups, such as family outings and company picnics. Each pavilion holds up to 100 people. There is electricity, water, a double charcoal grill and picnic tables in each pavilion. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Each pavilion rents for $75.00 per day plus tax. Park entrance fees are not included. The park does close on busy days when the park reaches maximum capacity.

Reserving a pavilion does not guarantee your party's entry or re-entry into the park if closed once maximum capacity is reached.

The park may reopen at set intervals throughout the day. Park closings usually occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. For further information or to make reservations please call 407/884-2008.
Trails
Bicycling

Cyclists of all levels can find a challenging and enjoyable ride in the park. The bicycle trail is approximately 9 miles long, but bicycles are also permitted on the 8 miles of horse trails. Please refer to the Trails Map link on the right side of the screen. Because these are multi-use trails, be prepared to meet the occasional hiker, horseback rider, or park vehicle. Please stay on designated trails, ride responsibly, and respect the park and wildlife. The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your ride accordingly.

Nature Trails

Enjoy a leisurely walk on the boardwalk nature trail next to the spring. It is approximately 1/8-mile beginning at a bridge that overlooks the spring and lagoon. This trail will take you through the swamps of a river hammock to a dry sandhill ending at the trail head of the main hiking trail. This trail is ADA accessible at the bridge entrance-please see the Park Map on the right side of this screen for location. Please enjoy the nature trail responsibly and respect the park and wildlife.Persons under the age of 16 are required by State Law to wear a helmet while bicycling.

Hiking:

Take as short or as long of a hike as you wish, enjoying the wilderness and wildlife on 13.5 miles of hiking trails. Please see the Trails Map on the right side of this screen for more information.

The 5.3-mile Volksmarch trail is marked with orange diamonds. Please stop at the Ranger Station for Volksmarch check-in materials.

Because some of the hiking trails are multi-use trails, be prepared to meet the occasional bicyclist, horse-back rider, or park vehicle. Please stay on designated trails and hike responsibly. Please respect the park and wildlife. The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your hike accordingly.

The trails are located in a wilderness area.

Horse Trails

Horseback riders will enjoy the Tram Bed Horse Trail which is named for it's western portion-the bed of an old railroad line.

The trail is approximately 8 miles long and divided into two loops. It is marked with a Green Blaze and/or Horse and Rider Emblems on wooden posts at all crossroads. Please refer to the Trails Map on the right side of this screen.

This trail was constructed by hand about 100 years ago for use as a passenger line. Rails were never laid for the passenger line. Instead, the rail bed was used to haul pine logs on a narrow gauge line in the early 1900's.

Because these trails are multi-use, be prepared to meet the occasional hiker, bicyclist, or park vehicle. Horses and riders are required to stay on the designated horse trails.

A corral is provided at the start of the trail for trailer parking. Water for horses only is available at one location, Camp Big Fork (see trail map). Camping is also available at Camp Big Fork (reservations are required).

Please ride responsibly and respect the park and wildlife. The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your ride accordingly.

Proof of Negative Coggins is required.

Please take water, a compass and a map when utilizing them.
Bicycling
For cycling enthusiasts, a 13-mile off-road trail offers an adventurous ride. Be careful of uneven terrain and wildlife.

There's also the option to bike on park roads. However, be aware that these are shared with vehicles.

The Sand Lake Loop is another choice for bikers but requires caution due to its challenging sandy sections.

Remember: helmets are mandatory for cyclists under 16 as per Florida law - safety first!

Bike rentals aren't available within the park boundaries so bring your own or rent one nearby before visiting.

Always stay hydrated during rides; it can get quite hot in this region especially during summer months.

Please respect all posted signs and rules while biking - they're there for everyone's protection!
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 200 species, including the red-shouldered hawk and Florida scrub-jay. The park offers guided bird walks during winter months. Birding checklists are available at the ranger station for enthusiasts to keep track of their sightings.

Area Attractions
Snorkeling

Snorkel in crystal clear Wekiwa Springs where the water is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. Children and non-swimmers should be accompanied by an adult swimmer at all times. Diving and jumping are not permitted. Snorkeling is not permitted in Wekiwa Springs Run, Rock Springs Run or the Wekiva River. The swimming area is open from 8:00 a.m. until park closing.

No lifeguards are on duty. Snorkelers and swimmers do so at their own risk.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
May 6 We saved the best until the last day.
park review stars; one to five This was our last day in America as we visited from New Zealand. We had a beautiful RV and this was one of the very best parks we stayed in. What a lovely place to wind down and get ready for the long flight back home. Thank you to the park rangers for such a beautiful spot. jim and rosie crain sr. Hamilton, New Zealand
May 10 This place is fabulous. by John and Sue Woodward
park review stars; one to five This is a photographers paradise. The spring, the trails it is all worth the visit. We will return.
March 1 favorite park by UK.Clive
park review stars; one to five My favourite park I go every year , it is the best place to chill out away from the hectic places in Orlando and the Disney parks.Swimming walking plus canoeing and lots to see or just do nothing just sit there and enjoy , just unwind ( I am from the UK )
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Area Campgrounds
Princess RV Resort
3000 Clarcona Road
Apopka, FL
407-533-9656
Katie's Landing at Wekiva River
262 Wekiva Park Drive
Sanford, FL
407-884-2009
Lake Saunders RV Resort
1175 Bay Road
Mount Dora, FL
352-383-4003
Wekiva Falls RV Resort
30700 Wekiva River Road
Sorrento, FL
352-383-8055
Orlando Lakefront Tiny Home Community
3405 North Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL
407-936-4094
Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park
48 Harbor Circle
Astatula, FL
352-742-1885
Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort
488 West Highbanks Road
DeBary, FL
386-668-4491
Encore Southern Palms
One Avocado Lane
Eustis, FL
352-357-8882
Park Avenue Mobile Park
2545 Park Drive
Sanford, FL
407-322-2861
Fairview Mobile Court
4462 Edgewater Drive
Orlando, FL
Lost Lake RV Park LLC
3400 Clarcona Road
Apopka, FL
407-886-1996
Rock Springs
1820 Rock Springs Road
Apopka, FL
407-886-6511
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
businesss listing main photo
Train House - New Smyrna Beach, FL
Cottages and Cabins
Like something out of a fairytale, a long time ago someone put two steam passenger train cars from 1892 and created something magical, a house This magical home is one of a kind and an experience you dont want to miss.
38.1 miles from park*
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Wekiwa Springs State Park is approximately 20 minutes North of Orlando and approximately 45 minutes North of the attractions. It is easily located off Interstate 4 at exit 94. Take State Road 434 West to Wekiwa Springs Road. Turn right on Wekiwa Springs Rd. and travel approximately 4 miles to the park entrance which will be on the right. Please call the park if additional directions are needed.

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Florida
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Florida State Parks

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