Imagine yourself drifting down a serene river in Florida, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. The sun shines brightly overhead, with nary a cloud in sight, and the vibrant blue sky stretches endlessly above you. This summer, why not embrace the adventure of lazy river tubing in Florida? The Sunshine State is home to a plethora of tubing options, just waiting for you to discover the perfect spot to relax and float along the water. Fortunately, we’ve curated a list of some of the finest locations! Whether you’re dreaming of gliding through the crystal-clear waters of a natural river or searching for the ultimate tubing experience in Florida, you’re in for a delightful escapade.
1. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, High Springs
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is a beloved destination for swimmers and tubers alike. This vast park is home to six natural springs, making it a unique spot for water enthusiasts. Visitors can float down the Santa Fe River at their own pace, enjoying the remarkable clarity of the water, which is recognized as some of the clearest in Florida.
2. Ichetucknee Springs State Park, Fort White
Ichetucknee Springs is a breathtaking natural wonder where you can leisurely drift along on a warm summer day. As you float downstream, be on the lookout for manatees gliding gracefully beneath the surface, and take in the vibrant wildlife that may appear along your path. This adventure is one of the longest available, as it meanders through the six-mile stretch of the Ichetucknee River, promising a day filled with relaxation and enjoyment. With all its natural beauty and abundant activities, it’s no surprise that Ichetucknee Springs is celebrated as Florida’s premier state park.
3. Rock Springs Run, Apopka
Florida boasts an array of breathtaking natural springs, and Rock Springs Run stands out as a shining example. This tributary of the Wekiva River features one of the longest lazy rivers in the state, making it a perfect destination for a laid-back day of tubing. As you drift along the gentle currents, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant ecosystem filled with diverse plant life and wildlife. A trip down this tranquil waterway offers a wonderful chance to unwind and refresh yourself in nature.
4. Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
Blue Spring State Park is a beloved destination in Florida, attracting visitors from far and wide. This seasonal hotspot offers a diverse range of activities including canoeing, scuba diving, fishing, camping, and tubing. For an unforgettable experience, don’t forget to bring your own snorkeling equipment; you can take breaks from tubing to explore the beautiful waters of the St. John’s River. Keep an eye out for manatees while you’re there, as these gentle giants often grace the park’s waters!
5. Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Visitors from across Florida flock to Rainbow Springs State Park, a premier destination for tubing enthusiasts. This beautiful park offers a wealth of activities and sights for everyone, whether you’re looking to leisurely float down the river in a tube or prefer to paddle through the waters in a kayak or canoe. An added bonus of this tubing adventure is the chance to enjoy a two-hour serene float, complemented by a convenient tram ride back, eliminating the need for a long walk back to the starting point.
6. K.P. Hole Park, Dunnellon
One fantastic way to enjoy the Rainbow River is by exploring K.P. Hole County Park. This popular destination offers year-round river tubing, along with a variety of other activities perfect for families. With a spring-fed river maintaining a refreshing 72 degrees all year long, it’s hard to find better river tubing options in Florida!
7. Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist County
Ginnie Springs, nestled in Gilchrist County, is a privately operated park that offers direct access to the stunning Santa Fe River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, diving, snorkeling, and tubing in the vibrant blue waters that Florida is known for. With its shallow springs, picturesque river scenery, and opportunities for sand and limestone cave diving, there’s always something exciting to do at this idyllic destination.
8. Spring Creek, Marianna
Spring Creek in Marianna provides an enjoyable four-hour tubing adventure, making it an ideal option for a laid-back day in the sun. Popular among locals from Tallahassee, visitors can leisurely float along the gentle waters of the creek, which leads to the breathtaking Chipola River. However, Marianna offers more than just Spring Creek. With a variety of activities and attractions, it stands out as one of Florida’s charming small towns.