The 30 Best Wildlife watching in High Springs, Florida

Poe Springs Park is a stunning natural oasis located in High Springs, Florida. This popular tourist attraction is nestled at 28800 Northwest 182nd Avenue and offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind in a beautiful, outdoor setting. The park features a crystal-clear spring that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas throughout the park. Poe Springs Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's natural landscapes.

Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, located at 2860 Ponce De Leon Springs Road in Ponce de Leon, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction with high visitation during the summer months. The park is named after Juan Ponce de León, the Spanish explorer who led the first expedition to Florida in search of the fountain of youth in 1513. The main spring at the park produces 14 million gallons of water daily and maintains a constant temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Visitors to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park can enjoy leisurely walks along self-guided nature trails, learn about the local ecology and wildlife, and participate in seasonal guided walks led by park rangers. Picnicking, fishing for catfish, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and panfish, and enjoying the park's grills and pavilions are popular activities for visitors.

Fanning Springs State Park, located at U.S. Highway 19 in Fanning Springs, Florida, is a popular tourist attraction that offers a refreshing escape along the Suwannee River. The park features a second-magnitude spring that produces 65 million gallons of water daily, providing a perfect spot to cool off on hot days and observe underwater wildlife such as musk turtles, bass, and manatees. Visitors can enjoy picnicking under majestic live oaks, playing volleyball on the white sand court, and exploring a boardwalk through a cypress swamp with towering cypress knees. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, and red-shouldered hawks.

Fanning Springs Trailhead, located along the Nature Coast State Trail in Fanning Springs, Florida, is a beautiful park that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The park is currently experiencing some temporary closures, including the accessibility lift chair in the swimming area and the spring itself, due to high river levels. To protect the forests, visitors are asked not to bring their own firewood into the park, as the emerald ash borer infestation can be spread through infested wood. Wood is available for purchase at the park for $10. Fanning Springs is a second-magnitude spring that produces 65 million gallons of water daily, providing a refreshing escape for visitors on hot Florida days. The springs are home to a variety of underwater wildlife, including musk turtles, bass, mullet, freshwater flounder, bowfin, and even manatees during colder days.

Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, located at 7450 Northeast 60th Street in High Springs, Florida, is a beautiful natural oasis that offers visitors a chance to experience the wonders of Florida's springs. The park is currently undergoing a construction project that will temporarily close new camping reservations starting August 1, 2024, but existing reservations remain valid. Additionally, the dump station at the park is out of service as of April 1, 2022, with an alternative available at O'Leno State Park. As the newest addition to Florida State Parks, Gilchrist Blue Springs boasts a large second-magnitude spring that produces an impressive 44 million gallons of water per day. The crystal-clear waters of Gilchrist Blue flow into the Santa Fe River, providing a stunning backdrop for paddling, snorkeling, and swimming. The park is also home to other springs such as Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring, and Johnson Spring, each offering unique vistas and photographic opportunities.

Get Up And Go Kayaking - Silver Springs offers an unforgettable adventure paddling through the stunning crystalline waters of Silver Springs in Florida. With crystal clear kayaks, you can witness the magic of the clear blue canals surrounded by amazing wildlife including manatees, monkeys, turtles, fish, birds, and even the occasional alligator. Our highly trained guides will point out all the wildlife and share fascinating stories about the area. Located at 5656 East Silver Springs Boulevard in Silver Springs, Florida, our tours offer a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're exploring the clear blue canals or spotting monkeys and manatees, our tours are sure to leave you in awe of the beauty of Silver Springs.

Lake Jervey Nature Path at SCF North Port is a serene park located in North Port, Florida, United States. Opened in 1985, this 100-acre campus offers a beautiful walking trail along Lake Jervey where visitors can enjoy nature up close while exercising or relaxing. The park is conveniently located near many attractions, including Spring Training games for the Atlanta Braves at Cool Today Park, hiking at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, and adventuring on the Myakka River. SCF North Port offers a full range of courses with nearly 3,000 students enrolled in classes on campus and online. The campus is home to a variety of programs, including a full A.S. in Nursing program, Gator Engineering at SCF, A.S. in Engineering Technology and Construction Management, and SCFCS Venice – a collegiate school where students can graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate in arts degree.

Wild Birds Unlimited is a specialty store located in Winter Springs, Florida, dedicated to providing high-quality products for bird enthusiasts. From bird feeders and bird houses to bird baths and bird seed, this store offers everything you need to attract and care for wild birds in your backyard. With a knowledgeable staff on hand to answer any questions and provide expert advice, Wild Birds Unlimited is the go-to destination for all your bird-watching needs. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just starting out, this store has something for everyone who appreciates the beauty of our feathered friends. Visit Wild Birds Unlimited at 5856 Red Bug Lake Road and bring the joy of bird-watching into your life today.

The Zoo Nature Center in High Springs, Florida is a unique institution dedicated to providing a natural habitat for a variety of exotic and native animals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom while learning about conservation efforts and the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours, the Zoo Nature Center offers a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Come discover the beauty of the natural world at this exciting zoo located in the heart of Florida.

O'Leno State Park, located at 410 Southeast Oleno Park Road in High Springs, Florida, is one of the state's first parks and was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Situated along the picturesque Santa Fe River, a tributary of the Suwannee River, the park showcases sinkholes, hardwood hammocks, river swamps, and sandhills. The river even disappears underground and reemerges over three miles away in River Rise Preserve State Park. Visitors to O'Leno State Park can enjoy a day of hiking or biking on the shaded trails, launch a canoe or try fishing on the Santa Fe River, or relax and picnic in the pavilions along the river's edge. The park also offers a shady, full-facility campground for those looking to spend the night in nature.

Gilchrist County Santa Fe River Park is a beautiful park located in High Springs, Florida, United States. Situated at 8500 NE State Rd, this park offers visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat along the Santa Fe River. With lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and river access, this park is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or go kayaking on the river, Gilchrist County Santa Fe River Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique park in the heart of Florida.

Santa Fe River Rise is a stunning park located in High Springs, Florida, where the Santa Fe River disappears underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges as a circular pool in River Rise Preserve State Park. This unique phenomenon attracts visitors who enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the peaceful surroundings of the park. Equestrians, hikers, and cyclists can explore the extensive trail system that spans over 35 miles. For equestrians, there is a primitive equestrian camp with campsites, a bathhouse, and a horse barn available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can enter the park through the Little Shoals Entrance or the Big Shoals Entrance in White Springs. Effective Sept. 2, 2023, the park is open for day-use and equestrian camping with limited trail access. Check the Storm Updates page for more information.

River Rise Preserve State Park, located at 373 US Highway 27 in High Springs, Florida, is a serene and beautiful natural oasis where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The park is known for the unique phenomenon where the Santa Fe River disappears underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges 3 miles away at River Rise Preserve as a circular pool before continuing on its journey to the Suwannee River. Surrounded by peaceful woods and towering trees, the park is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Anglers can spend a leisurely afternoon casting their lines into the river, while hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the park's extensive trail system that spans over 35 miles. Equestrians, hikers, and fat-tire cyclists alike will find plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Willow Gardens is a serene and picturesque institution located at 8304 Florida 45 in High Springs, Florida, United States. Nestled amidst lush greenery and blooming flowers, Willow Gardens offers a peaceful and tranquil setting for residents and visitors alike. The institution provides a range of services and amenities to cater to the needs of its guests, including comfortable accommodations, delicious dining options, and engaging recreational activities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing retreat or a vibrant community to connect with others, Willow Gardens is the perfect destination for a memorable experience.

Welcome to Weeki Wachee Kayak & Canoe Nestled in the heart of Spring Hill, Florida, Weeki Wachee Kayak & Canoe offers an unforgettable adventure on one of Florida's most pristine, spring-fed rivers. Located at 8103 Cortez Boulevard, our launch point is your gateway to paradise, where crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife await.

Welcome to Manatee Buggies, your premier destination for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Crystal River, Florida, in style and comfort. Conveniently located at 7123 West Avocado Street, our store offers top-of-the-line buggies that provide an exceptional ride for groups of up to six people. Whether you're embarking on a family adventure or a fun outing with friends, our six-seater buggies are equipped with seat belts, four-wheel disc brakes, and LED headlights with high and low beam settings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. At Manatee Buggies, we prioritize safety and convenience. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's license to rent our buggies. Please note that a minimum rental period of three days is required during holidays to accommodate high demand. Explore the local sights and attractions with ease and make unforgettable memories with Manatee Buggies. Visit us today and start your adventure!

Welcome to River Rise State Preserve Horse Barn, a serene haven nestled in the heart of High Springs, Florida. Located conveniently on U.S. 27, our park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and equestrian adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a nature enthusiast, our horse barn provides the perfect gateway to explore the stunning landscapes of River Rise State Preserve. Our facilities are designed to cater to both horses and riders, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. With well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests and along the picturesque Santa Fe River, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility and splendor of Florida’s natural environment.

Welcome to Walter Howard Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of High Springs, Florida. Located at 18651 Northwest 250th Street, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Spanning lush landscapes, Walter Howard Park is designed to cater to a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy leisurely walks along our well-maintained trails, or unwind with a picnic in one of our scenic areas. Our playground provides endless fun for children, while sports enthusiasts can make use of our basketball courts and open fields for a friendly game.

Welcome to Youth Site 1, your premier destination for outdoor fun and adventure located in the heart of High Springs, Florida. Nestled in the serene landscape of Florida's natural beauty, our park offers a perfect escape for families, friends, and individuals seeking a day of relaxation and recreation. At Youth Site 1, we pride ourselves on providing a safe and engaging environment where people of all ages can enjoy a wide range of activities. From our well-maintained walking trails that invite you to explore the lush surroundings, to our spacious picnic areas perfect for a family gathering or a quiet lunch, there's something for everyone.

Welcome to River Sink, a serene and picturesque park nestled in the heart of High Springs, Florida. Located at the address High Springs, Florida 32643, our park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Florida's unique landscape, where lush greenery and the gentle flow of the river create a peaceful oasis for visitors of all ages. River Sink is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll along our scenic trails, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax by the water, our park offers a variety of activities to suit your interests. Bird watchers and photographers will delight in the diverse wildlife and stunning vistas that abound in this charming setting.

Welcome to the Spa and Fitness Center at The Westin Cape Coral, a serene oasis nestled within the vibrant resort community of The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. Located at 5902 Silver King Boulevard, Cape Coral, Florida, our spa offers a luxurious escape designed to rejuvenate your body and soul. Esterra Spa & Salon Indulge in pure relaxation at the Esterra Spa & Salon, where breathtaking views of the Tarpon Point Marina and the Caloosahatchee River set the stage for a revitalizing experience. Our full-service spa features five treatment rooms, including a couples' room and a Vichy shower room. Enjoy a wide range of services, from tension-relieving massages and invigorating body scrubs to professional hair and nail care. Begin your journey with a personal greeting and a complimentary glass of champagne, wine, or fruit-infused water.

Welcome to Perdido River Nature Preserve Discover the serene beauty of Perdido River Nature Preserve, a hidden gem located at 5955 Hurst Hammock Road, Pensacola, Florida. This park serves as a living memorial to Betty and Crawford Rainwater and forms a crucial part of a protected corridor stretching through Alabama and Florida. Established with the support of a generous private foundation in 2003, the preserve invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity of natural Florida.

Welcome to Falling Waters State Park Campground Nestled in the serene landscape of Chipley, Florida, Falling Waters State Park Campground offers a unique escape into nature's beauty. Located at 1130 State Park Road, our campground is a tranquil haven just a few miles south of I-10, making it the perfect stop for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.