Learn more about these magical watering holes by checking out our Amazing Natural Springs in Florida Near Orlando! For more fun on Central Florida’s waterways, use our Orlando Beaches and Lakes Guide.

Florida’s Natural Springs: Family-Friendly Hotels

1. Castaways on the River - Astor

Directly on the St. Johns River, Castaways provides cottage rentals and motel rooms. A brief drive takes you to Silver Glen Springs (16 minutes) and Alexander Springs (13 minutes), or rent a boat and cruise the river to reach Lake George and Silver Glen Springs.

2. Hilton Garden Inn Lake Mary - Lake Mary

Situated near I-4 in Lake Mary, the Hilton Garden Inn offers convenient access -- 30 minutes away from Rock Springs at Kelly Park and Blue Spring, and 17 minutes from Wekiwa Springs.  Amenities include outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, evening room service, and convenience shop.

3. The Historic Artisan Downtown Hotel - DeLand

The historical Artisan Downtown Hotel blends Spanish colonial design with modern luxury. This restored hotel is conveniently located approximately 15 minutes from both DeLeon Springs and Blue Spring.

4. Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina - DeLand

Located within 25 minutes of both Blue Spring and De Leon Springs, this riverside resort features 17 rooms and suites. Make the most of your stay with amenities like an on-site pool, Hummingbird Plaza and Garden, Boardwalk, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

5. Hyatt Place Orlando/Lake Mary - Lake Mary

Hyatt Place Lake Mary sits within 30 minutes of Rock Springs at Kelly Park and Blue Spring, and under 20 minutes from Wekiwa Springs. Fun features include free breakfast and easy access to springs and attractions.

RELATED: Best Places to See Manatees in Orlando and Central Florida

Wekiva Falls RV Resort offers RV and tent camping as well as rental cottages. Photo courtesy of Wekiva Falls RV Resort

Florida’s Natural Springs: Camping Options

6. Alexander Springs Campground - Altoona

Alexander Springs provides 67 campsites suitable for tents and RVs (maximum length of 35 feet). The on-site concession stand sells snacks, groceries, ice, charcoal, firewood, and personal necessities. Reservations required for campsite bookings.

7. Blue Spring State Park Campground - Orange City

Camp alongside the manatees at Blue Spring! With 51 campsites located within walking distance of the spring, this state park provides a unique opportunity. The campsites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length. The park also features six, two-bedroom cabins available to rent.

8. Juniper Springs Campground - Silver Springs

Camp beneath an oak tree canopy at Juniper Springs, recognized as one of Reserve America's "Top 100 Family Campgrounds in the United States." Nearby, a convenience store provides essential camping supplies for added convenience.

9. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground - Dunnellon

Situated along the Rainbow River, the campground at Rainbow Springs State Park is located a few miles away from the main headspring. Campsites are capable of accommodating RVs up to lengths of 103 feet. Campground amenities include a store, showers, restrooms, as well as canoe and kayak rentals and laundry facilities.

10. Kelly Park/Rock Springs Campground - Apopka

Be among the early explorers floating down the wildly popular natural lazy river at Rock Springs. Kelly Park's campground provides 26 sites suitable for both tent and RV camping.

11. Wekiva Falls RV Resort - Sorrento

Wekiva Falls campground resort offers RV and tent camping as well as rental cottages. Surrounded by an 18,000-acre state preserve, the resort is the perfect blend of contemporary amenities mixed with old Florida charm.

12. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground - Apopka

This campground features 60 generously sized and wooded campsites, accommodating RVs up to 50 feet in length. The park also provides equestrian camping for those wishing to camp with their horses, and primitive camping options are also available.

Kayak down the river to the springs from a waterfront rental at Weeki Wachee. Photo courtesy of VRBO

Home & Houseboat Rentals Near Natural Springs in Florida

13. Holly Bluff Marine Houseboat Rentals - DeLand

For a unique experience, consider renting a houseboat from Holly Bluff Marina. Two popular springs are accessible via houseboat along the St. John’s River. At Blue Spring State Park (6 miles south of the marina), houseboats can be beached in a designated area on the river just outside the spring run, allowing guests to walk to the spring. Silver Glen Springs is located 30 miles north of the marina (roughly five hours by boat). Here, you can drive the houseboat into the spring run and stay overnight near the spring.

14. Manatee Cove Apartment - Weeki Wachee River

Located on half an acre directly along the Weeki Wachee River, this waterfront apartment is a mere eight-minute drive from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. With two bedrooms and one bathroom, the apartment comfortably accommodates up to four people.

15. Pirate’s Cove River Retreat - Astor

Ideal for an extended family getaway, this riverside retreat sleeps up to 16 individuals. Situated a brief drive from Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen Springs, the property offers a kid-friendly attached game room/bunkhouse. Guests will enjoy the sandy beach area, fire pit, cornhole, and kayaks.

16. Slice of Paradise Ranch - Apopka

Kids will love interacting with the resident goats(!) at this country retreat, located within walking distance of Wekiwa Springs State Park and a quick 10-minute drive to Kelly Park at Rock Springs. This VRBO property, exceptionally rated by previous guests, can accommodate up to six people.

17. Weeki Wachee Waterfront Home - Spring Hill

This waterfront vacation rental is a 10-minute drive to Weeki Wachee Springs and has outstanding reviews from past guests. This home can accommodate up to six guests and comes with kayaks, so guests can choose to paddle down the river to the spring.

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