Heidy M.
Yelp
This is a definite must do if you are in the area and is located only 1.5 hours from Orlando. Arriving early is key, parking is complimentary and porta potty's are available at the far end of the parking lot. There is something for everyone, rent a kayak, paddle board, walk the trails, or take a tour on the glass bottom boat. Wildlife is at every turn and you will most likely see alligators, birds , turtles, monkeys, water snakes, fish and manatee's. I am extremely experienced with paddle boarding but decided to kneel for most of this trip due to the amount of alligators that were around. I never felt threatened but there was no need for me to fall in either. The launch is pretty small given the amount of people that visit this spring, so I could see it taking quite a while when busy. We arrived at 8:30am and picked up our paddle boards and off we went with no wait. There are poles in the water at the launch, pay close attention as people do bump into them and fall into the water. The water was warm, very clear and you could see the wild life below you. This experience was one we will remember forever and we would definitely come back. If you would like to go with a tour, those are available as well, and looked very organized. I don't believe you could get lost but the monkeys are off to the right down another waterway that seemed hidden when we originally passed it. We highly recommend a few hours at minimal at this spring and we suggest you bring a waterproof pouch, water, bug spray, hat and sunscreen. Enjoy!!