Decided to do something different than just the Disney World and other theme parks so thought we would visit one of Florida’s State Parks. We had heard so much about a local park called Wekiwa we decided to take a look for ourselves. We drove to Wekiwa Springs State Park, which is just north of Apopka, a small town about 60 miles north of Davenport. As soon as we arrived we knew this was going to be our type of day!
The waters in the park are absolutely crystal clear and at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. There is so much to see in the park and lots of activities: You can go swimming, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, take a short walk along the boardwalk or some serious hiking and overnight camping along the thirteen miles of trails. There is even fishing and horse riding if that is of interest to you. The crystal springs flow into the Weiva River and eventually to St Johns river, and within the 7, 800 acre park there is an abundance of natural wildlife and plants, including blue herons, egrets, ospreys, kingfishers, tortoise, alligator, deer and much more. You can find out more at the Florida State Park website.
We decided to rent some canoes, made us feel like real explorers in a wild land. There were a few other canoeists on the river, but it really felt like we were getting away from it all. There are beautiful old oak trees along the bank of the river and provide some welcome shade from the hot sun. The water was never deeper than a few feet, so at any time checking for alligators or snakes first one could jump out of the canoe and take a refreshing dip in the water. Not that we did mind you, but we did note a few people cooling off and taking a swim. It was truly amazing to see Florida wild life at such close quarters.
We had taken along a picnic and drinks in a cooler, so after our canoe trip we made our way back to the picnic area. There is plenty of grassy areas or tables for you to sit and relax and eat your lunch. We chose a grassy bank near the large swimming hole. And yes, we took a cooling dip and had some fun in the swimming hole after our lunch. For children there is a playground along with a volleyball and horseshoe pit. Plus a museum and visitor centre showing exhibits on natural and cultural history.
We had a fantastic day out at Wekiwa Springs State Park and it only cost us $6 entry for our car. This is the real Florida and it’s on your doorstep, something not to be missed. Fantastic day out and highly recommended.
The waters in the park are absolutely crystal clear and at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. There is so much to see in the park and lots of activities: You can go swimming, snorkelling, canoeing, kayaking, take a short walk along the boardwalk or some serious hiking and overnight camping along the thirteen miles of trails. There is even fishing and horse riding if that is of interest to you. The crystal springs flow into the Weiva River and eventually to St Johns river, and within the 7, 800 acre park there is an abundance of natural wildlife and plants, including blue herons, egrets, ospreys, kingfishers, tortoise, alligator, deer and much more. You can find out more at the Florida State Park website.
We decided to rent some canoes, made us feel like real explorers in a wild land. There were a few other canoeists on the river, but it really felt like we were getting away from it all. There are beautiful old oak trees along the bank of the river and provide some welcome shade from the hot sun. The water was never deeper than a few feet, so at any time checking for alligators or snakes first one could jump out of the canoe and take a refreshing dip in the water. Not that we did mind you, but we did note a few people cooling off and taking a swim. It was truly amazing to see Florida wild life at such close quarters.
We had taken along a picnic and drinks in a cooler, so after our canoe trip we made our way back to the picnic area. There is plenty of grassy areas or tables for you to sit and relax and eat your lunch. We chose a grassy bank near the large swimming hole. And yes, we took a cooling dip and had some fun in the swimming hole after our lunch. For children there is a playground along with a volleyball and horseshoe pit. Plus a museum and visitor centre showing exhibits on natural and cultural history.
We had a fantastic day out at Wekiwa Springs State Park and it only cost us $6 entry for our car. This is the real Florida and it’s on your doorstep, something not to be missed. Fantastic day out and highly recommended.