Manatees
The spring is much more than a scenic area for canoeing and swimming; it plays a
vital role in the survival of one of Florida's most beleaguered residents -- the manatee.
Visitors can learn more about this endangered animal through ranger interpretive programs.
A chair accessible observation platform provides a view of the endangered mammals that
gather at the spring during the cooler months of the year. From November through March,
the manatees leave the colder waters of the St. Johns River for the safety and comfort of
the 72-degree spring.
History
For hundreds of years the Timucuan Indians made the
spring area their home. The spring run, river and the surrounding swamps and uplands
provided food, clothing, shelter and materials for tools and weapons. Snails gathered from
sandbars were staple food for these people. Over the centuries, the discarded shells
formed a massive mound.
Three years after England acquired Florida from Spain, John
Bartram, a prominent British botanist, explored the St. Johns River in search of resources
of value to the Crown. On January 4, 1766, he rowed his boat past sunning alligators into
the clear waters of Blue Spring.
By the mid-1800's, most of the Indians had been killed or
driven south and pioneer settlers took their place. In 1872, the Thursby family built a
large frame house atop the Indians' shellmound, safe from the floodwaters
of the St. Johns. The pilings of the steamboat dock remain, relics of a bygone area.
CAMPING AT BLUE SPRING STATE PARK The park has 51
campsites. Each site has a picnic table, grill and water. Twenty-seven sites also have
electric hook-ups. None of the sites have sewer hook-ups but there is a dump station
located within the park. The sites vary in size. There are only a few sites that are of
sufficient size to accommodate today's larger camping rigs.
Reservations are taken for one hundred percent (100%) of
our campsites. The reservations can be made up to eleven (11) months in advance from the
day you wish to arrive.
The campground is located in a pine forest within walking
distance of the river and spring run. The campground offers accessible bathhouse
facilities. Primitive camping is available to registered backpackers. The sites are at the
end of a four-mile hiking trail that winds through shaded hammocks and open
flatwoods.
CABINS
Blue Spring has six(6) cabins. Each cabin has
central air/heat, fireplace, two bedrooms, bathroom, fully equipped
kitchen (stove and
refrigerator), screened in porch, an outdoor grill and picnic table. Linens, pillows,
blankets, towels and cooking and eating utensils are provided (linen is not furnished on a
daily basis). One bedroom has a double-bed and a set of bunk beds, the other bedroom has a
double-bed. One cabin is equipped for the handicapped.
Six(6) people is the maximum per cabin. Four(4) people are
included in the basic price; with an additional charge per person per night up to the
maximum of six(6). Reservations may be made up to eleven months in advance with a minimum
stay of two nights. A two night deposit must be received within 10 days after making the
reservation. Reservations may be made in person or by telephone during the hours of 8 am
to 12 noon and 1 pm to 3 pm Monday thru Friday.
PICNICKING
Blue Spring State Park offers two separate picnic areas throughout the park. There
are covered pavilions with grills located at these areas for larger groups. One of these
areas also has a large covered barbecue pit, and can be reserved, for a fee, from October
through March. Contact the park office for details.
SWIMMING
Blue Spring offers swimming and scuba-diving in a crystal clear, 72 degree spring
run. Scuba-divers must register at the entrance station between the hours of 8 AM. and
3PM, with an up-to-date certification card and a partner. Swimming or diving with the
manatees is NOT permitted.
NATURE TRAIL
The same pristine beauty enjoyed by Florida's earliest residents still can
be seen today. A self-guided boardwalk guides visitors through a lush hammock to Blue
Spring.
FISHING
From the accessible fishing pier, anglers will find an abundance of bluegills and
blue cats, in addition to largemouth bass, shellcrackers and speckled perch. A
Florida freshwater fishing license is required for persons age 16 years and older. A concession
stand offers snacks, camping supplies and limited groceries. Canoe rentals are available.
Pets
Pets are not allowed in camping areas, on bathing beaches, in concession
areas and may be restricted in other designated areas of the park. Where pets are allowed,
they must be kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash and well-behaved at all times. Service
dogs are welcome in all areas of the parks.
