Florida summers are notorious for their intense heat, making it a challenge for residents to enjoy the outdoors without feeling overwhelmed. While swimming pools and water parks offer some relief, there’s nothing quite like the allure of the state’s stunning natural lazy rivers. If you’re eager to experience some of the best tubing adventures Florida has to offer, keep reading!
As a word of caution for those visiting from other states, it’s important to note that alligators can be found in each of these waters. Thankfully, they tend to avoid crowded areas, but it’s always a smart idea to remain vigilant and mindful of your surroundings while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Florida.
1. Ichetucknee, Fort White
Ichetucknee Springs State Park is arguably Florida’s premier tubing destination, known for its stunning natural beauty. The tubing season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, allowing visitors to start their adventures from the northern launch area of the river. It’s important to note that the park imposes daily limits on the number of tubers, and during the peak summer months, it can quickly reach its full capacity. To ensure a spot, it’s best to arrive early in the day. This picturesque park, situated northwest of Gainesville, welcomes guests daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset. The access to the north launch is cut off at 2:00 p.m., or sooner if the 750-person cap is met.
Location: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, FL 32038.
2. Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
Rainbow Springs State Park is a cherished destination, renowned for its stunning artificial waterfalls and historic trails that weave through the vibrant Florida landscape. In addition to its scenic beauty, tubing is a popular activity that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Guests begin their adventure at the tubing entry point, where a shuttle transports them upstream. From there, they can unwind and savor a leisurely two-hour float back to the parking area. The tubing entrance operates daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: S.W. 180th Avenue Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432.
3. Kelly Park, Apopka
Another exciting lazy river experience in Florida is found at Rock Springs Run in Kelly Park. Known for its delightful tubing opportunities, this Orange County destination offers a scenic one-mile float that typically lasts around 30 minutes. For those seeking a longer adventure, it’s easy to walk back upstream and enjoy multiple trips down the river. The park operates daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during the summer months, but it’s important to arrive early as it tends to reach capacity by mid-morning.
Location: 400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712.
4. Blue Spring State Park, Orange City
While the tubing and swimming route at Blue Spring State Park measures just 1/8 of a mile, it offers plenty of excitement on a scorching summer day. Tubing and swimming are permitted only during the summer months, so be sure to visit during this time for a refreshing experience. Don’t miss out on returning in the winter, though; this location is renowned for being one of the premier spots in Florida to observe manatees.
Location: 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, FL 32763.
5. Madison Blue Springs, Lee
Experience the exquisite tubing opportunities in the stunningly clear waters of the springs and nearby river at this state park, available exclusively on weekends from May to September. Madison Blue Springs, a renowned spot for cave diving enthusiasts, earned the title of the best swimming hole in the nation from USA Today in 2015. Don’t miss your chance to discover why this location is so highly praised!
Location: 8300 NE State Road 6, Lee, FL 32059.
6. Ginnie Springs, High Spring
Ginnie Springs: A Relaxing Tubing Adventure
Experience the serene beauty of the Santa Fe River with a one-hour tubing journey from Devil’s Spring to Twin Spring. After your leisurely float, enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk back along the nearby trail. Ginnie Springs is one of the rare spots that permits alcoholic beverages while tubing, which can enhance your experience but may also lead to a more lively atmosphere. If you’re visiting with young children, consider planning your trip during the week to avoid the bustling weekend crowds.
Location: 7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643.
7. K.P. Hole County Park, Dunnellon
Discover another hidden gem in Dunnellon, where you can embark on a delightful four-hour float down the scenic Rainbow River. Please note that children under the age of three are not permitted on this extended journey. Guests are encouraged to bring along snacks and drinks to enjoy during their float, but they must be in eco-friendly reusable containers. If a four-hour adventure seems a bit overwhelming, consider hiring a local boat service to transport you upstream, allowing for a more leisurely two-hour drift back to K.P. Hole.
Location: 9435 SW 190th Avenue Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432.
8. Blackwater River State Park, Holt
While it may not boast the crystal-clear waters of other rivers due to the natural tannins present, the Blackwater River, located within Blackwater River State Park, is renowned as one of the nation’s cleanest sand-bottom rivers. This park in northwest Florida showcases a stunning array of landscapes that set it apart from the more familiar scenery found in Central Florida parks. Visitors often engage in popular activities like kayaking and canoeing, and there are designated areas for tubing as well.
To visit, head to 7720 Deaton Bridge Rd, Holt, FL 32564, but it’s best to follow the brown directional signs to avoid any confusion with conventional GPS systems. For those interested in tubing and other outdoor adventures, the Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center provides various options on the Blackwater River.
Tip: When embarking on extended outings, consider bringing a floating cooler along with some rope to secure your floats. This will help keep your group together and prevent anyone from drifting apart.