Pack a lunch and take a cool dip in the springs

Interested in exploring the perfect place to take the family and enjoy a swim in a spring? Pack up a picnic lunch and head over to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park and spend the day.

Nature trails along a creek, four pavilions, picnic areas and easy access to the swimming in a clear blue spring make this park the perfect family getaway.

Ponce de Leon springs stay a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making swimming in the hot summer months a special treat. The spring boils are a convergence of two underground water flows, producing 14 million gallons of water daily. The spring is named for Juan Ponce de Leon, who led the first Spanish expedition to Florida in 1513 – as legend has it, in search of the “fountain of youth.”

The shady forest trail along Sandy Creek is an easy hike. The tree canopy provides the perfect location for bird and wildlife viewing.

Recent forest restoration has brought back pitcher plants. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

Anglers can enjoy fishing for catfish, largemouth bass, chain pickerel and panfish along the spring run and in the creek.

Recent park renovations include remodeled restrooms, handicap access and new bridges to the walking trails.

The 386-acre park straddles Walton and Holmes counties. 154 undeveloped acres are currently going through long leaf pine forest restoration. Prescribed burns have opened up the canopies in the forest restoring native pitcher plants and wiregrass.

So head over to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park and explore nature, enjoy a picnic lunch and a cool dip in the springs. You may rediscover your youth!

Hours of Operation
8 a.m. to sunset

Driving Directions
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park Area is located one half mile south of U.S. 90 on C.R. 181A in Ponce de Leon, FL. ::MAP::

Park Fees
$4.00 per vehicle. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required. Limit 8 people per vehicle.
$2.00 Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.

Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Road
Ponce de Leon, Florida 32455
Phone: 850-836-4281
For more information, go to the website at: www.floridastateparks.org/PoncedeLeonSprings