Loraine D.
Yelp
My very first visit to a Florida Springs so here is how it went....
June 2021.....Father's Day weekend, we drove up to Apopka and arrived a little after 8am and the line was already way down the street! They should be open by then but the line of cars continued to slowly crawled for about 30 mins. When we got up the line and was our turn to speak with the officer controlling the traffic (across where you rent the tubes), we were told that the park was already at capacity and that we can return at 1pm. I was in shock to say the least! It was only about 8:45am and we were dressed in our bathing suits with our huge inflatable! My son was so disappointed and I can't blame him. At around 11 am, I called to find out if it's ok to come back soon and I was kindly told that the park was closed for the day and to my surprised, I was told that the very first car arrived there at 3am!!! No way, Jose! So I took this as a learning experience and told everyone I know! What really sucks is that I wish they had one of those light up traffic signs that says the park was full instead of keeping us in line for like 30 mins for the officer to tell us we can't go in. So again, don't come here during the summer, holidays, and on the weekend! But if you plan to, come before everyone else.
October 2021.....Fast forward to Columbus Day weekend, after much research and lots of planning and preparation and honestly, lots of praying (coz I can't stand disappointing my kid for the second time) me, my group of friends and our children arrived at the park a little after 7am. We had our cooler, snacks, water gears, tubes, towels, camera...we brought everything! It was still dark but we were able to rent our tubes and line up to go in the park! And at exactly 8am, the line began to move and we are in!
About the park: This park is huge! I had no idea that you can actually camp here (reservation required) There are plenty of parking, pavilions, picnic tables, grills, and things to entertain everyone in your party such as volleyball court and a variety of playgrounds. There is a concession area that sells food and drinks but I heard they only accept cash. There are lots of shades from the thick canopy of trees. There's so many things to see from wildlife to a plethora of foliage and vegetation. It was so exciting that the kids got to see a deer as we slowly wind down the river. The water is about 72 degrees all year long, and as soon as you get over the initial shock of the cold water, you definitely get used to it and it's actually really nice especially on a hot day. The water is about 3 to 4 feet deep except for the end where the cave is. Beware at the beginning part of the river is rocky and slippery and the current is super strong, so prepare to get banged up.
Overall, this was an awesome visit. It's definitely an affordable and different way to entertain your family and friends. The kids had a wonderful time. Everywhere is instagram worthy. There are spigots everywhere where you can rinse off. The restrooms are typical of national parks. The staff at the entrance were nice, but once inside, you are kinda left to fend for yourself. There were no lifeguards during our visit.
Things to know:
~People line up as early as 3am.
~Get in line, and park! Then walk around to get your tubies or pee or shop at the gas station across the street.
~Park entrance ranges from $5 to $8 depending on number of people per car.
~Tube rentals available for $7 and you are required to leave some form picture ID...I would use the lease valuable.
~Bring your own tube...up to 5 feet only.
~You can walk, bike there for like $1.
~Bring anything you need to have a good time: chairs, tents, games, stuff to bbq as they have grills.
~Bring water shoes, sunscreen, phone wet case (You are welcome!)
Tips:
~Do your research. Google it, call them, planning is key!
~Come no later than 7 am.
~Park near the restrooms, especially if you come with kids.
~Take the time to walk all the way to the beginning of the river with your tube, over where the closed off cave is.
~If coming with a big group, rope your tubies together and create a fun tube chain.
Enjoy!