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Wekiwa Springs State Park

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Wekiwa Springs State Park is a 7,000- acre piece of paradise that is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Orlando, Florida. This hidden gem is perfect for RV travel if you want to be removed from routine tourist spots. Why contend with the hustle and bustle of a theme park, or other tourist points of interest, when you can be ensconced in this quiet, beautiful haven that has numerous walking trails and a crystal clear swimming spring in which you can take a cool, refreshing dip? The many options available for campers and day users are impressive. Rent a canoe and paddle through some amazing scenery. Watch birds, turtles, fish, and even see alligators sun-bathing. Do not worry; they are fenced off.

The park is open 365 days a year from 8:00 until sundown. Fees are $6.00 per vehicle with two or more occupants and $4.00 for a single-occupant vehicle. If you plan to camp, the charge is $24.00 per night, which includes water and electricity. A 50% discount is allowed for residents of Florida who are over 65 years old or who are disabled. Primitive campgrounds are $5.00 per night. Pets are allowed in the park, but not in the springs, so be prepared to make provisions that do not include your pets going into the water. Arrive early as cars line up at the entrance before opening hours.

The park is a camper’s delight. The campground has nice size pads so that you can easily maneuver an RV onto a site without having to squeeze through tight spaces. For RV travel, some sites have full hookups, which allow the creature comforts of home, so if you want to be surrounded by nature while enjoying a favorite movie, you can absolutely do that. You have the choice of sitting and relaxing at the campsite or taking advantage of the activities, such as fishing, biking, wildlife watching, and horseback riding. However, if you prefer more primitive camping, rustic tent campsites are available, where bucolic surroundings will lull you into a sense of peace and serenity.

Photo credit Becky Johns Witeck on floridastateparks.org

Nature trails and picnic areas are perfect for day users. Paddle a canoe along the river to Wekiva Island for a bite to eat, and meet the locals who frequent it. While on the island, you can relax, swim, eat and drink before heading downriver, where you will view even more wildlife. Return to Wekiwa Springs for some sun-bathing on the vast grassy area or set up snacks at the picnic tables located in woodsy areas.

Great for photographers and wildlife lovers, this wild little panorama features boardwalks and paths that showcase Florida at its best. This unique park has been receiving visitors since the mid-nineteenth century, and it is just as popular today. Enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, equestrian camping, or geo-seeking, which is the modern-day treasure hunt, but using GPS. You will never forget these experiences. Other amenities include an amphitheater, a restaurant, and concession, interpretive exhibits, playground, picnic pavilion, spaces for meetings and retreats, showers, and a visitor center. Various public events take place in the park throughout the year.

Wekiwa Springs has everything a camper or day user could possibly want in a natural setting. If you have forgotten any articles, the store in the middle of the park can supply your needs. They have such items as nets to catch fish, supplies for s’mores, coffee, and so much more. There is something for everyone. Picnic tiki huts, grills, and a food truck on the weekends are available for fun times with friends and family. The weekend tiki bar gives adults a relaxing place to enjoy themselves after a day of hiking and kayaking.

Photo credit floridastateparks.org

The park is a family-friendly experience with its kiddie areas, floaters, and twin water slides. They even have a swim lift to help visitors who may have difficulties using the steps to enter and enjoy the spring water. For an unmatched camping and RV experience, the park delivers on all counts. All kinds of games and arts and crafts are available for every member of the family. The weather is fairly consistent, with none of the temperature fluctuations found in other state parks. With 817 spaces and 569 hookup sites, it is time to embark on a journey of relaxation, adventure, and scenic undertakings.

Wekiwa Springs allows short weekend stays or much longer visits. Some campers stay long-term for different reasons, such as homeowners needing someplace to stay between homes, retirees pulling in for the winter, or permanent RVers, who stay longer periods throughout parks across the country. Whatever your reason for visiting Wekiwa, it is sure to be a wonderful experience that you can put into the memory book.

For more information, visit the Wekiwa Springs State Park website or call 407.553.4383

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