Is Blue Springs open now?

The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

Are there manatees at Blue Springs right now?

The spring and spring run are closed to all water activity while manatees are present during this time. Swimming or diving with manatees is not permitted; this rule is strictly enforced.

How many manatees are in Blue Springs State Park today?

The number of manatees visiting the park has grown significantly, from about 36 animals when research began in the 1970s to over 500 animals today.

When can you see manatees at Blue Springs State Park?

Manatees at Blue Spring State Park From mid-November to March, hundreds of manatees congregate in the spring run to seek shelter from the cold. It’s a truly unforgettable sight to see so many of these iconic animals in one place.

Is Blue Springs open for swimming?

Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year. Blue Spring is a designated manatee refuge. Temperatures in the spring run remain a constant 72 degrees; creating a safe haven for the West Indian Manatee.

How much does it cost to get into Blue Springs state park?

2100 West French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763. Phone: 386-775-3663. Hours: Open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Day use admission $6 per vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicycles.

Where are manatees today?

Florida manatees are found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, bays, estuaries and coastal water ecosystems of the southeastern United States. They can live in fresh, brackish, or salt water. Manatees prefer waters that are about one to two meters (3-7 feet) deep.

Where are manatees in Florida right now?

Crystal River is the #1 place to see manatees in Florida! It is known for its many natural springs. Three Sisters Springs, located in Crystal River, is one of Florida’s most popular springs and is known to have hundreds of manatees resting inside of it at one time!

What time of day do manatees come out?

The Three Sisters Springs is a quieter viewing and swimming spot but wherever you are, the best time to be with the manatees is early morning 6 am to 8.30 am when they are most active.

Are there alligators in Blue Spring State Park?

There are signs to beware of alligators at Gilchrist Blue Springs, but they are mainly in the spring run beyond the swimming barrier or in other parts of the park. The main swimming area in Gilchrist Blue Springs is often busy with people swimming and splashing, and no alligator wants to be around that!

Are there alligators at Blue Spring State Park?

Patrons of the park, who enjoy kayaking in the St. Johns River, snorkeling in the narrow channel leading to an underwater cave or viewing manatees during the winter months, are aware that alligators lurk in the waters.

Can you swim with the manatees at Blue Springs?

Blue Spring offers snorkeling in a crystal-clear spring run. Swimming with the manatees is not permitted. Children and non-swimmers should be accompanied by an adult swimmer at all times.