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    Dunnellon, FL

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    Rainbow Springs State Park

    4.2 (209 reviews)

    Rainbow Springs State Park Photos

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    View from Tubing
    Taylor H.

    Rainbow Spring was an interesting spring experience. I typically kayak at springs but decided to try out tubing. My friend and I thought it would be a relaxing tubing experience similar to a lazy river. That it was not. We both capsized and had multiple people help us throughout the journey (whether getting back into the tube or getting unstuck from vegetation). The sense of community on the river was beautiful to see. We have to come to learn that capsizing is apparently very common. It would be helpful to either have something on the website or an inforgraphic when waiting for the tram on best ways to get back in the tube or how to get unstuck when you float out of the main stream of the river. It took us a little over 2.5 hours to get down the river, which was advertised as a 90 minute to 2 hour float. When we arrived, a tram was at the entrance but already full. It tooks us about 30 minutes to get on an empty tram upon arrival. It would be nice if there was either set times for the tram or the opportunity to have an announcement of how long until the next expected team. The staff was very friendly and the park itself is very clean. With so many springs to explore in Florida, this wouldn't be the top of my list to recommend but glad I got a chance to see it!

    Shaeyla D.

    This is another good spring however I would not recommend for kids, that's why I took a star off. Honestly even for adults it could not be recommended just due to the swimming area being so deep and there being no shallow area so you're having to float and tread the entire time. They also don't allow floaties, only pool noodles which was annoying. Other than that, it's a good option to go to. I like the trails they have and the waterfalls are gorgeous. I also appreciate the bathrooms that are right near the swimming area.

    Aria I.

    Breath taking views at rainbow springs park waters are a bit chilly even in the summer . So definitely recommend coming when it's warm out . Plenty of hiking areas great place for a family trip .

    Rainbow River
    Carrie M.

    Our tubing trip down the river was pretty, but it was quite boring. It took us two hours to float from the entrance to exit, and it was extremely slow. We kept getting stuck in trees and bushes. The fun part was getting to swim in the clear water and passing off our tubes to a floating friend to hold onto. We also saw an otter. The lady at the rental station was very generous and let us borrow multiple pairs of goggles and masks. There were a bunch of motorboats passing by and blasting their music. They disturbed us with their waves and noise. It was around $27 per person in addition to $5 for one vehicle, and we paid all the fees upon entrance to the parking lot. They take you on a safari-like tram to get to the tubing entrance. I strongly recommend water shoes because my friends were suffering while barefoot on the hot ground. The walk was unexpectedly long and painful for my barefoot friends. They don't have showers or any sort of water spout/hose, so it was kind of gross to not be able to rinse the river gunk off then drive hours back to a major city. They have restrooms, but they were already closed when we walked from the river exit back to the tube station, even though the actual park wasn't closed yet, and there were still employees there. This was very inconvenient, and I wish they had at least told us in advance because we didn't have a place to change. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect the restrooms to stay open while the park is open. Also, they have you sign a waiver that says you must wear a lifejacket at all times. They didn't even offer us one, so I was baffled why they made us sign a waiver that said that. Can't they get into legal trouble if they don't actually provide lifejackets? I was troubled by the fact that we had to sign something that wasn't in the slightest bit enforced.

    Erin K.

    Tubing down this river is the B E S T! Clear, fresh, chilling, calm water full of wildlife like snakes, otters, turtles, herons, & loons! The homes located on the banks of the river are truly magnificent and well-kept. We loved how organized the tubing experience was (tram drops you at the North end of the river & picks you up on the South end). The tram has an enclosed trailer to haul the tubes you bring (if you do not bring one, it is provided for you at the North end). At the "convenience store" near the tram pickup, you can give the cashier your car key/fob (no danger on losing it in the river). They tag it with your name. Inside the store, there are snacks, T-shirts, sunglasses, shot glasses, etc. Also, the waivers are signed on tablets affixed to the outside of the store (super easy). The entrance to the headsprings, is located about 7-8 miles away. You have to drive there. The MOST IMPORTANT thing to know is that when the max capacity hits, the headsprings entrance closes. Security "tries" to let new people in when others leave (about every 30 mins.). About 10-12 cars will be let in after that. I absolutely understand that this is for safety. But, we never got to enter the headsprings (and we drove two hours one way to experience this natural phenomenon). Tubing Prep Heads Up: After taxes, parking fee, & tubing fees (FOR THREE PEOPLE), the total cost is a little less than $90.

    Frank M.

    Visited Rainbow Springs State Park on a Friday around 8am opening time and had a great experience. We checked out the main swimming area and left our belongings nearby and decided to go on a nature hike. On our way, we found some beautiful waterfalls and even a turtle sunbathing. Some of the hiking paths are paved; others are not. The natural trails were pretty secluded and relaxing, and we only saw 2 other people on the trails. The paved areas are also super nice with relaxing waterfalls and viewpoints near the water. After hiking, we came back to the swimming area, and it was already getting crowded around 10am. The water was a cool 72 degrees; if you get cold, definitely bring a shorty wetsuit. I would also recommend swim goggles and fins as the water is pretty deep--around 10 feet. The changing areas and bathrooms were super clean, and our group was able to change into dry clothes after our swim. Only downside was there were no showers available. Overall, wonderful experience and we would defiantly return.

    Old zoo site
    Jeana L.

    Amazing experience and relaxation at Rainbow Springs with wonderful spring water, nature and wildlife. Came here with a girlfriend early in the morning and the spring was close to empty with very few people. The water was clear, clean and the temperature was cool. It may feel cold but jumping right in and the best way for your body to adjust. There are nature trails, kayaking, and waterfalls to enjoy. You can also bring your snorkeling gear as well. Only floats you can bring are the noodles and infant floats. For kayaking or paddleboarding, you can bring your own or rent them. If you rent, note that you'll have to complete the waiver forms and can only bring non-disposable bottles such as a Tumbler -- no plastic bottles. Kayaking down the Rainbow River was amazing and seeing ducks, ducklings, lots of turtles and if you're lucky, otters. Unfortunately, no otters for us. The restrooms and changing rooms are decently clean, but we couldn't find a shower. They also have a gift shop and Rainbow Cafe with decent pricing -- burger & fries for less than $12 and the fries were freshly fried and crispy. Definitely get the fries if you wanna snack. They also serve pizzas, taquitos, hot dogs and corn dogs. Highly recommend this spring if you want to enjoy a nice and relaxing day -- best during weekdays. Weekends are difficult as they only limit the amount of guests.

    Kathy K.

    Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon comprises of 1459 acres and close to 13 acres submerged. The entrance fee is $5 per car. The fresh water spring forms the Rainbow River. We had a nice stroll through the park and took a dip in the very cool spring water. It is deep so we had to tread water. Activities include swimming, tubing, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking and wildlife viewing. There is a visitor center, gift shop, snack bar and restrooms. The views of the spring water, the foliage and the waterfall are just beautiful. The wildlife in the park include; squirrels, turtles, alligators and otters. Also, water birds, songbirds, hawks, kites, osprey and barred owls. The site has a two mile nature trail. It is open 8am to sundown everyday.

    View of Rainbow River from the start of the trails.
    Karen F.

    This park is amazing! Definitely a five star, can't wait to go back, loved every minute of it event. My friends live nearby, though, so all my experiences have been with people who knew what they were doing, and where to go. The first time I went we launched kayaks from a spot in the nearby neighborhood, and spent the morning idly paddling up and down river looking at the wildlife. We also hung out in one of the specially marked off swimming holes. My most recent experience we parked at the main entrance, and then took a hike on the yellow trail. It was about three miles, and very clearly marked, which for someone like me who gets lost from the car to her house, makes a big difference. Since it was winter, not much was in bloom, but in spring all the azaleas make an appearance and it is supposed to be gorgeous. The park was still pretty magical though, because it is filled with multiple man-made waterfalls from when it used to be an amusement park, and they are absolutely beautiful. On the way out we stopped at the Gift Shop, which held your standard souvenirs as well as maps posted of what the park used to look like when it held rides, animals, and a rodeo barn. There is also a concessions stand open in this area that appeared to offer a variety of drinks and snacks. Make sure you hit the park for more than just tubing - it is really beautiful to explore.

    Water
    Angela D.

    Only $5 to drive through and park. Great swimming and an area to rent kayaks and tubes. It's so beautiful! The water is so clear. We were told we may see manatees. We did see turtles, otters, fish & birds. Its a easy kayak trip. The water is calm. Great family place to picnic and have some fun. Bathrooms are clean and also have changing rooms.

    Shaleigh D.

    Amazing! It's beautiful. Only 9 dollars for three people. Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of tables. Such a beautiful place

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    2 months ago

    It's so beautiful to see crystal clear water once you've there it's all about nature and rebooting

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    Rainbow Springs State Park Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Rainbow Springs State Park

    Is there wheelchair access into the water? handicap access?

    No...I do not know the answer but their number is 352-465-8555. They are always helpful when called.

    Are the available kayaks that are being rented, CLEAR?

    No they are not...There are also not much to see anyway. I didn't see hardly any fish in this stream. If you want a truly great kayak ride then go to Silver Springs for a day. You will not be disappointed. So many water creatures swimming below you… 

    Que horario tiene?

    De 8:00 de la mañana hasta el atardecer.

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    Review Highlights - Rainbow Springs State Park

    “We came to Rainbow River to tub for my 26th birthday, and had the best experience I've ever had at a state park.”

    Mentioned in 16 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens - While you walk the gardens be sure to say "Hi" to Fuzz Ball, and look for soft paws.

    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens

    4.7(92 reviews)
    21.0 mi

    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is an absolutely beautiful place. It is two levels with swans,…read moreturtles, koi ponds, squirrels, waterfalls and birds. If you are lucky enough you will get to meet their onsite cats. Watch out for all the spiders that have created their webs throughout the park area though. Don't miss out on the hammocks!

    This was a fun walk around a garden that must have seen better days - or today was a dry day. We…read morehad fun, it was an old quarry where the owner envisioned and created a cool upper and lower path around and filled with some water, waterfalls, koi fish, swans, ducks, turtles, and oodles of plants: some unique some local- and even a Japanese stile garden with Tori gate et all. Today we didn't see the center fountain many admired, and sadly the water levels must have been low as the cascades were thin (at best). Nonetheless- we had a good time walking about and spotting an old bonsai tree, some Japanese-style bridges, and even a slithering water snake! How exciting!! In all it was a fun stop that broke our long drive from Tallahassee to Fort Lauderdale, so we had a good time. Entrance fee was a bit steep at $ 12 (for what was offered imho) and there is a veteran/military discounted admission ($6)but make sure you have your DD214 or Retired ID to show or else you will Not qualify. Enjoy!

    Photos
    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens - Picturesque scenery

    Picturesque scenery

    Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens - Fuzz ball is one of many cats that consider our garden home.

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    Fuzz ball is one of many cats that consider our garden home.

    Blue Springs Park - The platform for jumping off (not gonna say diving because not a proper dive platform) on a nice spring day.

    Blue Springs Park

    4.4(12 reviews)
    28.7 mi

    Beautiful place! The springs were closed but we went to Poe springs 5 minutes away and have a…read morenatural pool and river current with stairs, restaurant and bathrooms

    County-owned and run park with a beautiful natural spring. There is a "dive platform", which I put…read morein quotes because as a platform diver myself, it's not high enough to be a proper dive platform but still you can do basic stuff or just jump off. Most of our state parks sadly have removed their dive platforms (Fanning, Madison Blue, Gilchrist Blue) so it's nice to find one. There are picnic tables and a I think a playground for little kids plus a sand volleyball court which gets very popular on weekends. Actually, the entire place gets very popular on weekends and I'd advise going on a weekday if possible. Otherwise, it's super-crowded and mostly rowdy teens. There are a lot of fish in the springs but if you want to freedive or snorkel and see them, come on a weekday, ideally in the morning. Once kids come around after school, the dive platform is the highlight and there's enough kids jumping off it to make the water very murky so you won't see anything then underwater. Tips: --It's cash-only, $2 admission for adults, not sure what for little ones. --No footballs: volleyballs are allowed, but no footballs! I asked why and was told by the girl at the concession stand "two boys playing football trampled a Karen who complained". So yeah, that. --The focus is very much on family fun: again, if coming to see nature come on a weekday, ideally early. --If you dive/jump off the platform, swim clear off it immediately. There's likely a middle schooler jumping right after you. Some run, jump, and don't look down and I've been hit before by flying tweens. --The road leading to the park is pretty long and paved. People drive like proverbial bats out of hell on it, 60 MPH or more. Be careful.

    Photos
    Blue Springs Park
    Blue Springs Park - You can dive off the dock

    You can dive off the dock

    Blue Springs Park - Always beautiful!

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    Always beautiful!

    Sholom Park - The land

    Sholom Park

    4.8(59 reviews)
    11.0 mi

    The most memorable park in Ocala! I have to admit I did not see it all so I will be going back…read moreshortly to see so much more. I was at peace just walking a bit sipping coffee and taking in the calm and beauty. There is much to see at Shalom Park it's very beautiful place to be. When I was there they were having a yoga class it was so nice to see. I walked around and spoke to some lovely people they mostly were enjoying some morning exercise. I'm sorry that I missed the zen garden but this just gives me an excuse to go back faster. It's obvious that many frequent this park for so many reasons you can easily see. It's lovely, peaceful, clean and you feel pretty safe comparatively. They have activities here from what I've read and the yoga class is proof of this but I think there is much more that I need to explore and check the calendar for to see and know for myself. There are 2 miles of trails, the zen garden, an area called the Labryrinth where you can take a physical, spiritual or meditative walk along its winding path. Stop along it's 24 points of reflection and create your own Labryinth experience. Labryinth's have one way in and one way out come in and form your own perspective enjoying this relaxed atmosphere. The Pergebo was magnificent as I felt so much happiness being there. It is part gazebo and part pergola, I didn't even know such a thing existed until now! It's covered in confederate jasmine and blossoms in the spring with tiny white fragrant flowers. This is located on the path at the end of the olive trees! I enjoyed the pond so much with all the beautiful fish and sounds of the falling water. You can feed the fish and see them all come at once jumping out at you. Gorgeous Koi such beautiful colors. Sit on a bench and relax if you'd like there are many all around the park for you to enjoy. They say the pavilion is often used for educational purposes and horticulture events and that there are often presentations that people can escape the sun or rain showers. The stage is where I had seen the yoga class taking place. They have weddings, live concerts, the parks sunset series and much more on the stage throughout the year. Mounted on the stage, The Peace Panels display quotes of peace by renowned authors, musicians, and political leaders! The olive tree promenade has 18 trees on each side 18 is the symbol of peace; the number 18 is the symbol of life,and many couples use this as their entry way for marriage. The formal gardens is an area where there is lot's of live large oak trees, colorful bushes and lot's of foliage all around in a nice quiet shaded atmosphere. People often gather here for a picnic, wedding or just to enjoy and relax and enjoy the environment. The bat house can hold 800 bats during the night. Bats are a natural way of achieving insect control in the park and each bat can consume 6-8,000 insect every night! There is so much more to see and encounter at Shalom Park I encourage you to visit and explore. The story of Shalom Park from their website: As with most great achievements, Sholom Park began as a vision, born in the hearts of Sidney and Ina Colen. Inspired by a visit to Boston Gardens, Sholom Park was created for a purpose; to provide a place where the pursuit of inner peace and learning may be enhanced and enjoyed. The park was named after Sidney Colen's grandfather, Sholom, which is also the Hebrew word for peace. The park does not serve a political or religious agenda or belief system After years of conceptualizing the vision, a master plan for the park was developed in 1999 and the park concepts began to take shape. In 2001, horticulturist, Steve Curl was hired to oversee the final design and construction of Sholom Park as the vision came to life. On October 17, 2004, Sholom Park celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting along with hundreds of friends and supporters. Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM Address: 7110 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34481 Phone: 352) 854-3677 Email: info@sholompark.org Wheelchair accessible *** Bike racks available ***

    Wow! WoW! Wow! I think this park is profoundly under the radar and simply not well known enough…read more This isn't just some playground with a path. In fact, there is no playground equipment at all. What it does offer, though, is everything one could want in a natural setting. You can walk for a little while or lose yourself in it for much longer. The paths are easy, accessible, and thoughtfully laid out, with enough variation to keep things interesting from start to finish. It never feels repetitive, which is rare. The labyrinth was genuinely enjoyable, with multiple points of interest throughout. Subtle shifts in sound and visual texture keep you engaged, yet everything remains grounded in simple nature, shaped by the hands of men.. nothing artificial or forced, just an intentional design that draws you in. The crowning glory moment for me was the Zen garden. I cannot remember the last time I felt that level of calm and stillness. It has a way of centering you almost immediately. I would have stayed longer, but I needed a restroom, which unfortunately was closed at the time. This is a place I will return to without hesitation. My mother has yet to see it, and I already know she is going to love it.

    Photos
    Sholom Park - The Pavilion

    The Pavilion

    Sholom Park - Raking Garden

    Raking Garden

    Sholom Park

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    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - Bald eagle!

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

    4.6(64 reviews)
    33.3 mi

    I love State Parks and if I'm in the area even while camping in the RV at a different State Park I…read moreusually will visit other parks that are in the vicinity, there are so many State Parks in Florida it seems I always find one to visit for the first time. We arrived here mid-morning on a weekday, so there wasn't many visitors in the park and we were able to drive the winding roads much of it under the tree canopy and well under the posted speed limit. We started out at the visitor center which if pretty amazing here at Paynes Prairie SP it has a lot of interactive displays and a short film outlining the park's history and amenities. The staff here is so welcoming and quick to answer any questions and provided us some details of what the park has to offer and what you can expect to see during any season. It's impossible to see and do everything in one trip so I had a few things I wanted to accomplish during our visit in only a few hours - besides walking a few of the beautiful trails, I wanted to catch a glimpse of the bison and wild horses that roam the prairie, there are a few vantage points to do this in the park starting with telescopes inside the visitors center and a deck in the backyard there, but I was more interested in getting closer to nature so we headed for the beautiful observation tower located just a few hundred feet further down the concrete path and wow what a view. Well today the bison and wild horses were no where to be found due to the temperatures but we did see some of the smaller animals roaming through the brush and wooded areas so it was a good day. The parks is very well maintained and has many things in place so you can make the most of your visit including a beautiful pier, a boat launch, Pavilions with charcoal grills, clean restrooms, a gift shop inside the visitor center, lots of well marked hiking trails, plenty of paved parking lots and a beautiful campground with large private sites. This park is definitely worth a visit and one I'd love to return to again and again...

    What a beautiful park! So many trails to take advantage and never enough time!…read more Great and helpful staff (who will allow you to loan binoculars if you forgot yours and give you ideas on which trails are best for you based on what you are looking to experience) If you are in the area and are a nature nut (like me), come and take a look around. We saw deer, alligators and plenty of birds in our short excursion!

    Photos
    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - Sunrise from platform out in the savanna

    Sunrise from platform out in the savanna

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - Watch Tower

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    Watch Tower

    Rainbow Springs State Park - parks - Updated October 2026

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