1. Rainbow Springs State Park

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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

    Silver Springs State Park - S'mores at fireplace

    Silver Springs State Park

    4.4(326 reviews)
    24.4 mi

    Silver Springs State Park was an amazing experience. I came out with a group to kayak, and it ended…read moreup being one of the highlights of the trip. The water is absolutely beautiful and crystal clear, and we saw wildlife pretty much the entire time. We spotted tons of birds, turtles, fish, and even the famous monkeys! Kayaking was a great way to explore the park because you can get surprisingly close to the wildlife while still just enjoying the scenery. Seeing the monkeys out there in the wild was definitely something I won't forget. Beautiful park, plenty to see, and a great place to spend a few hours on the water. I'd absolutely come back.

    My parents were reminiscing about when they were middle school aged and came here for field trips…read more I was surprised to find out that Silver Springs State Park and the glass bottom boat tours have been around for that long! It was about a 1.5 hour ride from Orlando. Woke up real early on a Saturday (on honestly one of the coldest days of the year) to arrive at the park around 8am. I highly suggest purchasing glass bottom boat tour tickets online about a week in advance atleast since time slots fill up! We purchased the 1.5 hour tour on the boats. Our tour guide was incredible and shared so much knowledge and facts about the wildlife and park. I got to see tons of manatees! Plus getting to see gators, turtles, birds, and even monkeys! The glass bottom gives such a cool perspective on viewing the wildlife and plants underwater. Aside from the tour, we walked several trails to enjoy the great outdoors. Also, we had coffee in the morning when we first got here and lunch after the tour. The food was pretty good and filling. At the gift shop I made sure to leave with a magnet and Christmas ornament to remember such a great day here.

    Photos
    Silver Springs State Park - Entrance

    Entrance

    Silver Springs State Park - Glass Bottom Boat Tour Pick-Up

    Glass Bottom Boat Tour Pick-Up

    Silver Springs State Park

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    River Ventures

    River Ventures

    4.8(403 reviews)
    17.2 mi

    I don't know where to start…read more This was the absolute best day. We started at the River Ventures Dive Center at 6:30AM, where we were offered coffee, tea, hot cocoa and snacks, and spent the next bit with an educational video and a wetsuit fitting. From there, we took a bus to the dock, in the most gorgeous sunrise light. let by our Guide Nat. Captain Emerson met us at the covered, heated pontoon, and our group set off through the water, for the protected manatee zone. The water was FULL of our sweet sea potatoes... in fact, it was difficult to even get off the boat because our new friends swam right up to the ladder. Nat had given excellent instructions. We immediately leaned into our pool noodles and gently followed her lead through the water. It took just moments before manatees were all around us. We stayed calm and quiet, and they either continued snoozing, or swam up to investigate us. Nat was on point with the camera, and with showing us things like the tarpon and sheepshead fish, and she was also shared little details about the manatees as we floated. Of course, with nature, there are no guarantees, and I really had no idea what to expect, but I was absolutely delighted by the interactions we had. The cold snap absolutely played into our favor, and I am so glad we showed up with our adventurous spirit. When we returned to the boat, there were more snacks, as well as hot cocoa, coffee, tea, and a variety of drinks in the cooler (water, beer, wine, soda, and white claws). We were so grateful for the boat covering and heater as we made our way back to the dock, and we had great chats with Nat, Emerson, and the other group on our tour. Was it cold? Sure. But the water felt great at 72ºF, and our wetsuits did a wonderful job of protecting us and keeping us buoyant. Our experience was incredible, from booking, to engaging with the staff with any questions we had, to the actual tour itself. The photos and videos were absolutely phenomenal, as well, and we were happy to purchase the package, as well as some gifts from the souvenir shop. We will be back for more manatee viewing, or to try one of their other tours. Thank you so much for the best day!

    Garrett was a blast! We are just coming into the warm season and most manatees are back in the…read moregulf, he still got us to 7 manatees, 2 gators, and we caught a dolphin in kings bay towards the end. He gave us plenty of time to look for things to come up out of the water which was great for my 2 year old. Boat was shaded and was enjoyable even with a small child. Other tours wouldn't let me book because she was under 3- we brought our own lifevest but they did also have some on board that were her size.

    Photos
    River Ventures - Merchandise from their gift shop! It was all super cute and affordable. I personally got a carved manatee, I love him

    Merchandise from their gift shop! It was all super cute and affordable. I personally got a carved manatee, I love him

    River Ventures - Ready to go swimming squeezed into this wetsuit.

    Ready to go swimming squeezed into this wetsuit.

    River Ventures - After a detailed instructional video, we were passed around a vertebrae to emphasize the kind nature of these sea cows 3

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    After a detailed instructional video, we were passed around a vertebrae to emphasize the kind nature of these sea cows 3

    Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach, Tarpon Springs

    Sunset Beach

    4.3(66 reviews)
    69.6 mi

    There's something truly special about Sunset Beach. It's small and quiet, but intimate and…read morecharming. One of my favorite things about our little town is how everyone gathers here in the evenings to watch the sunset--it's such a beautiful, shared experience. The beach has clean bathrooms, a playground, a boat launch, and plenty of free parking, which makes it easy and family-friendly. They also host sunset movie nights, which I've heard are a must-do. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Sunset Beach is the perfect spot to slow down and soak it all in.

    Next, I stopped by Sunset Beach in historic Tarpon Springs to see what all the hype was about. It…read morewas definitely much busier than Robert K. Rees Memorial Park. Families were enjoying the water, and they were even setting up for a wedding ceremony while I was there, which gave the beach a really warm, community feel. For me, though, I had the same experience I did at Robert K. Rees. As soon as I stepped into the water, I could feel a soft muddy layer mixed in with the sand under my feet. The water also looked like it had very little movement, almost as if it wasn't circulating much, which just wasn't appealing to me. I know plenty of people love this beach, and that's perfectly okay. It's simply not the kind of beach I'm searching for. I'm still on the hunt for those crystal-clear waters and firm, sandy bottom that make me want to stay all day.

    Photos
    Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach, Tarpon Springs

    Sunset Beach, Tarpon Springs

    Sunset Beach - My husband enjoying the magic of Sunset Beach

    My husband enjoying the magic of Sunset Beach

    Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach, Tarpon Springs

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    Sunset Beach, Tarpon Springs

    Rainbow Springs State Park - parks - Updated October 2026

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