Wekiwa Springs State Park, Florida

  Champions Gate, Florida
Thursday, September 21, 2006

I decided to do something different than the usual rounds of Disney World and other theme parks and took a drive to North Orlando to Wekiwa Springs State Park in central Florida. As soon as I arrived I knew this was my type of day.  The waters in the park are absolutely crystal clear, at a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit and you can go swimming, snorkeling and canoeing, or fishing and horse riding if that is of interest.


The springs flow into the Weiva River and eventually to St Johns river, within the 7800 acre park is an abundance of natural wildlife and plants, including blue herons, egrets, ospreys, kingfishers, tortoise, alligator, deer and much more. See more at the Florida State Park website

We decided to rent some canoes that made us feel like explorers in a wild land. There were a few other canoeists on the river so it really felt lke we were getting away from it all. The water was never deeper than a few feet, so at any time (checking for alligators or snakes) one could jump out of the canoe and take a refreshing dip in the water. Not that we did mind you, but we did note a few people swimming.

Its advisable to take plenty of fresh water for a days canoeing, it was certainly very warm in September.
For me, we had a fantastic day in Wekiwa springs state park. This being the real Florida and something not to be missed.