The Florida State Park That's Warm Year-Round With Gorgeous Waterfalls & Pristine Swimming

When we think of Florida, its amazing beaches often spring to mind. The Sunshine State boasts an abundance of gorgeous coastline, from this uncrowded island edged by white sand to the most spectacular beaches in the Keys. Florida's sun-kissed coastal charms have made it synonymous with the ocean, and while most beach destinations are worth a visit, the state also possesses a wealth of freshwater gems.

This is especially true when it comes to Florida's many springs. These oases of sapphire-blue water surrounded by lush forests and mangrove stands are found throughout the state, and Rainbow Springs State Park is the perfect place to experience the many splendors they have on offer.

Situated about 25 miles southwest of Ocala and 90 miles northwest of Orlando, Rainbow Spring State Park not only offers the chance to float, swim, or snorkel its crystalline flow, but also features idyllic cascades and hiking trails for all levels. It's the ideal getaway for anyone wishing to soak up Florida's lush outdoors in its purest form, with a chance to spot wildlife as well. Perhaps the best part is that the water at Rainbow Springs stays warm — around 72 degrees — year-round.

Rainbow Springs State Park occupies 1,472 acres, and is home to the fourth-largest springs in Florida. The springs are also the headwaters of the Rainbow River, which languidly flows for 5.7 miles before joining the larger Withlacoochie. Originally a private resort (manmade waterfalls, a rodeo, and zoo), the opening of theme parks such as Disneyworld in Orlando — along with the new interstate that bypassed many small towns — drew visitors away from old parks like Rainbow Springs. It closed its doors in 1973, and the state of Florida — recognizing the site's unique beauty and cultural heritage — acquired the property in 1990, creating the park we see today. 

People flock to the park to plunge into its incredibly clear, refreshing waters, slide across the surface in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, or just lazily float along in a tube. The Rainbow River is also a terrific destination for anglers, with populations of bass, sunfish, gar, and needlefish — all of which can be hooked and landed on a rod and reel. In addition, the verdant environs are part of the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail, where you can spot owls, wading birds, woodpeckers, and songbirds, along with squirrels and gopher tortoises.

Rainbow Springs State Park is also home to seven miles of hiking trails that take strollers past three man-made waterfalls. It also winds through patches of azaleas, and magnolias along with stands of oak that offer much-welcome shade during the hot months of Florida's summer. In addition, there are picnic areas where you can bring some food, and relax to the sound of flowing water and singing birds.

For those wishing to spend the night at Rainbow Springs, the park also has a campground located along the river, a few miles from the day use site at the headwaters. The campground features 60 full-hookup sites for both RVers and tent campers, along with amenities such as restrooms, laundry, showers, a camp store, fishing access, and canoe, kayak, and tube rental. Reservations are required.

Rainbow Springs State Park is a high-demand location, meaning it can draw crowds — especially on weekends and holidays during the summer. The park has a limit on how many visitors can be admitted each day, so when they reach capacity, they'll shut the gate and turn people away.

This also means there's no waiting outside the gate or parking on nearby roads, so if you want to enjoy everything the reserve has to offer, make sure to get there early. If Rainbow Springs is too busy for your tastes, there are plenty of other options, such as this under-the-radar swimming hole in a crystal-clear paradise.