Best Natural Lazy Rivers in Florida: Relaxing Floats for Your Next Vacation

Florida is home to some of the best lazy rivers in the country, with crystal clear water, scenic views, and plenty of opportunities to kick back and relax. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, there’s a lazy river in Florida that’s perfect for you.

Top Natural Lazy Rivers in Florida

If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend a summer day in Florida, tubing down a natural lazy river might just be the perfect activity for you. Florida is home to several beautiful natural lazy rivers that are great for tubing, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and canoeing. Here are some of the top natural lazy rivers in Florida that you should definitely check out:

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

If you’re looking for a lazy river that’s surrounded by lush canopies and crystal clear water, Ichetucknee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for you. Located in North Florida, this state park features a natural lazy river that’s perfect for tubing, swimming, and relaxing.

The Ichetucknee River is fed by several springs, which keeps the water at a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The river flows for six miles through the park, and you can choose to float the entire length or just part of it. The park offers tube rentals, or you can bring your own.

One of the best things about Ichetucknee Springs is that it’s not just a lazy river. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites, so you can easily spend a whole day or even a weekend here. Plus, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, turtles, and birds, so keep your eyes peeled as you float down the river.

If you plan on tubing down the river, keep in mind that the park can get crowded during the summer months. It’s best to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the park before it gets too busy. Also, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks, as there are no concessions available on the river.

Rainbow Springs State Park

Rainbow Springs State Park features a crystal-clear river that averages from 5 to 18 feet in depth, making it perfect for tubing, swimming, and snorkeling. The water temperature is usually around 72 degrees, which is refreshing on a hot summer day.

Aside from the lazy river, Rainbow Springs State Park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful waterfall. You can rent tubes, kayaks, and paddleboards from the park’s concessionaire, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment.

If you’re looking to spend the entire day at the park, you can bring your own food and drinks or purchase them from the concessionaire. The park has several picnic areas with grills, so you can cook up a delicious meal while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Ginnie Springs

Looking for a lazy river that offers crystal-clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere? Look no further than Ginnie Springs! Located in High Springs, Florida, Ginnie Springs is a natural park that features several different springs and a beautiful river that’s perfect for tubing.

One of the main attractions of Ginnie Springs is the Santa Fe River, which offers a gentle current that’s perfect for a lazy day on the water. You can rent tubes on-site, or bring your own for a fun and affordable day out. The park also offers kayak and canoe rentals if you’re looking for a more active adventure.

In addition to tubing and paddling, Ginnie Springs is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear water allows for great visibility, so you can see all the way to the bottom of the springs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even explore the underwater caves and tunnels that are scattered throughout the park.

Ginnie Springs is open year-round, but prices vary depending on the season. Adult admission ranges from $15 to $22, with discounts available for children and seniors. Camping is also available on-site, so you can extend your stay and enjoy all the park has to offer.

Kelly Park/Rock Springs

Kelly Park/Rock Springs is located in Northwest Orange County. This natural lazy river is one of the most popular springs in Florida.

The tubing experience at Kelly Park/Rock Springs is the main attraction. You’ll float down the spring run, surrounded by lush greenery and crystal clear water. The water is cool and refreshing, making it a great way to beat the Florida heat. The entire tube run is around 30 minutes long, but you can repeat it as much or as little as you want.

If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, you can also try kayaking at Kelly Park/Rock Springs. There’s a great kayak tour available that will take you beyond the tube run and into the heart of the spring run. You’ll get to see the natural beauty of the area up close and personal.

Kelly Park/Rock Springs is located just 40 minutes away from Orlando, making it the perfect day trip from the city. There’s plenty of parking available, but it can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.

Wekiwa Springs State Park (Apopka)

Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With crystal-clear waters and lush tropical hammocks, this unique park is just minutes from downtown Orlando and is perfect for observing abundant wildlife.

The park is home to the Wekiwa River, which is fed by emerald springs and flows freely and swiftly. One of the most popular activities among visitors is tubing down the “lazy river,” which takes about 30 minutes to complete. You can rent tubes at the park or bring your own.

In addition to tubing, you can also swim in the refreshing waters of the springs, which maintain a cool 72 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go snorkeling and explore the underwater world of the springs.

If you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, including the 13-mile long Wekiwa Springs Loop Trail. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, gopher tortoises, and even the occasional black bear.

The park also offers camping, with both primitive and RV sites available. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are also cabins available for rent.

Park Information
Address: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712
Phone: 407-553-4383
Hours: 8 AM until sunset daily
Fees: $4-6 per vehicle, $5 per night per person for primitive camping
Land Manager: Florida State Parks

Rock Springs Run (Apopka)

Located just 40 minutes outside of Orlando near Apopka, Rock Springs Run is a great spot for a refreshing and relaxing day trip. You can go horseback riding, hike, or bike across 17 miles of trails. But the water activities are the crown jewel of Rock Springs Run.

Tubing down the river is a popular activity, and you can rent tubes outside the park. The process for tubing Rock Springs is that you float from the top of the spring run to the bottom, then repeat as much or as little as you want. Tubes are available for rent outside the park, but they aren’t available from inside Kelly Park.

While there are endless choices of man-made lazy rivers at hotels and amusement parks, there’s something special about floating down a natural lazy river. Rock Springs Run is surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, making it a truly unique and relaxing experience.

So if you’re looking for a fun and refreshing way to beat the Florida heat, head to Rock Springs Run in Apopka and float down one of the best natural lazy rivers in the state.

Santa Fe River (High Springs)

The Santa Fe River is a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing. The river is slow-moving and gentle, making it ideal for a leisurely float. You can rent tubes, kayaks, and canoes from local outfitters or bring your own equipment.

One of the highlights of the Santa Fe River is the variety of wildlife you can see along the way. Keep an eye out for turtles, fish, and even the occasional alligator. The river is also home to a variety of birds, including eagles, ospreys, and herons.

If you’re planning to spend the day on the Santa Fe River, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks. There are several places along the river where you can stop and have a picnic or take a break from the sun.

Pros	Cons
Gentle current	Crowded on weekends
Scenic views	Limited parking
Wildlife sightings	No lifeguards on duty
Equipment rentals available	No restrooms along the river

Econfina Creek (Youngstown)

The Econfina Creek is surrounded by many trails and camping spots to make it the perfect getaway this season.

Managed by Northwest Florida Water Management and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the recreation area offers paddling, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing all within 41,363 acres of unparalleled scenic beauty.

The majority of the recreation area lies just north of State Road 20, and it is about 8.5 miles of dirt road driving that is best suited for 4-WD vehicles. So, if you’re planning to visit this lazy river, make sure you have a suitable vehicle.

Blue Spring State Park (Orange City)

Blue Spring State Park is a great option to consider if you’re looking for a lazy river in Florida. The park is located in Orange City, Florida and offers visitors a refreshing experience with its 72-degree waters.

Blue Spring State Park is a popular destination for tubing, and it’s easy to see why. The park’s lazy river is one of the longest in Florida, and it’s surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna. You can spend an afternoon tubing down the river and enjoying the scenic views.

In addition to tubing, Blue Spring State Park offers a variety of other activities. You can hike the park’s multiple trails, set up a picnic, or go canoeing and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters. The park is also a must-visit destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventure all year round.

If you’re planning a trip to Blue Spring State Park, be sure to check the park’s hours and fees before you go. You can also download a park map to help you navigate the park and plan your activities. Overall, Blue Spring State Park is a friendly and enjoyable destination for lazy river tubing and other outdoor activities in Florida.

Madison Blue Spring State Park (Lee)

Madison Blue Spring State Park is crystal-clear, first-magnitude spring that is a popular spot for swimming and cave diving. The park is located in Lee, Florida, and is about a 1.5-hour drive from Tallahassee.

The lazy river at Madison Blue Springs is a beautiful crystal-clear spring that bubbles up into an 85-foot wide limestone basin along the west bank of the Withlacoochee River. The river is perfect for tubing, and the trip takes about 30 minutes to complete. The park provides tube rentals, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own.

In addition to tubing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Madison Blue Spring State Park. You can take a dip in the spring, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or hike one of the park’s nature trails. There are also picnic areas and a playground for kids.

Suwannee River (Multiple Locations)

Spanning over 200 miles, the Suwannee River is one of the most popular waterways in Florida, offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the best ways to explore the Suwannee River is by canoe or kayak. You can rent equipment from various outfitters located along the river, or bring your own. As you paddle down the river, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider tubing down the Suwannee River. Many outfitters offer tube rentals and shuttle services, so you can float down the river at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll pass by scenic locations such as the Suwannee River State Park and the historic Suwannee River Music Park.

In addition to water activities, the Suwannee River also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bream. You can also hike along the river’s banks and explore the surrounding forests and wetlands.

Three Sisters Springs (Crystal River)

Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River is a must-visit destination. Located in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, this spring is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and abundance of wildlife.

During the winter months, Three Sisters Springs becomes a popular spot for manatee watching. These gentle giants migrate to the warm waters of the springs and can often be seen swimming and playing in the area. If you’re lucky, you might even get to swim with them!

Aside from manatee watching, Three Sisters Springs is also a great place for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The water temperature remains a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it the perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

Alexander Springs Recreation Area (Altoona)

Alexander Springs offers a lazy river experience that is perfect for families with children or those who just want to unwind. The water is crystal clear, and the surrounding forest provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop. You can rent tubes or bring your own and float down the river at your leisure.

In addition to tubing, Alexander Springs is also a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The spring is a first-magnitude spring, which means that it discharges over 100 cubic feet of water per second. This makes for a refreshing swim in the summer months, and the water is a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

If you’re looking for a more active experience, you can also explore the hiking trails that wind through the forest surrounding the spring. The trails vary in length and difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. Wildlife is abundant in the area, so keep an eye out for deer, turkey, and other critters as you hike.

Pros	Cons
Crystal clear water	Can get crowded on weekends
Great for families	Limited food options
Scenic backdrop	No alcohol allowed
Hiking trails	No lifeguards on duty

Wacissa River (Monticello)

One of the best ways to experience the Wacissa River is by tubing, kayaking or canoeing. The river features several different paddling trails ranging from 2 to 12 miles long, so you can choose the length and difficulty level that suits you best. Along the way, you’ll pass by numerous springs, including the popular Wacissa Springs, which is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

The Wacissa River is also a popular destination for fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bream. You can fish from the shore or from a boat, but be sure to check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s regulations before you go.

If you’re not up for paddling or fishing, you can still enjoy the Wacissa River by tubing or swimming. There are several places along the river where you can rent tubes and float down the lazy current. And with the river’s crystal-clear water, swimming is a refreshing way to cool off on a hot Florida day.

Weeki Wachee River (Spring Hill)

The Weeki Wachee River is home to various water activities such as boating, rafting, and kayaking. The river is very narrow and extremely shallow in spots, so it’s best to use a Jon boat or small skiff to navigate. It’s also very crowded, making boating almost unsafe at times. However, if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider going during the week when school is in session.

The State Park is located at the head spring, approximately 5.5 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The best time to go to the Weeki Wachee River is during the hotter months (Spring through Fall) when the water is warm and perfect for swimming. If you’re planning to visit during peak season, make sure to book your tickets in advance. The park is open every day, and you can launch as early as 8 a.m. or as late as 1 p.m. (2 p.m. if you bring your own kayak or paddleboard).

Juniper Springs Recreation Area (Silver Springs)

Juniper Springs Recreation Area in Silver Springs is one of the oldest and most well-known on the East Coast, and it’s easy to see why. With sparkling springs and a subtropical setting, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

One of the highlights of Juniper Springs is the lazy river, which is a great way to spend a hot summer day. You can rent inner tubes at the park or bring your own, and then float down the river at your leisure. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, and the scenery is beautiful. You’ll pass by lush vegetation, towering trees, and even some wildlife if you’re lucky.

In addition to the lazy river, Juniper Springs also offers other recreational activities. You can swim in the springs, have a picnic, hike on the trails, or camp overnight. There are plenty of amenities available, including restrooms, showers, and a camp store.

If you’re visiting Juniper Springs, keep in mind that the park can get crowded during peak season. It’s best to arrive early to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds. Also, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, as the Florida sun can be intense.

Holmes Creek (Vernon)

If you’re looking for a relaxing and scenic float down a lazy river, Holmes Creek in Vernon, Florida is a must-visit destination. This 16-mile long tributary of the Choctawhatchee River is a state-designated paddling trail that features over 15 different springs along the trek.

With a dozen launch points along its length, Holmes Creek offers a variety of options for paddlers of all skill levels. You can rent kayaks and canoes from local outfitters, or bring your own equipment to explore the crystal-clear waters. The river flow is often very slow, so paddling upstream and downstream takes about the same time and effort.

One of the highlights of Holmes Creek is the abundance of wildlife you’ll encounter along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, fish, and even the occasional otter. The creek is also home to a variety of bird species, including ospreys, herons, and kingfishers.

If you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day, Holmes Creek is the perfect spot. The water temperature stays refreshingly cool year-round, thanks to the many springs that feed into the creek.

Pros	Cons
Clear water	Can be crowded on weekends
Abundant wildlife	Limited parking at some access points
Refreshingly cool water temperature	Some sections can be shallow in dry seasons
Multiple launch points	Limited facilities along the creek

Blackwater River (Milton)

One of the best things about Blackwater River is the variety of activities available. You can rent tubes, kayaks, and canoes from local outfitters or bring your own. The river is calm and slow-moving, so it’s perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try your hand at fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish, including catfish, bass, and bream. Make sure you have a valid Florida fishing license before you cast your line.

Blackwater River State Park is located near the river and offers a variety of amenities, including campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails. It’s a great place to spend the day or even a weekend.

Pros	Cons
Crystal-clear water	Can get crowded on weekends
Variety of activities	Limited parking
Beautiful scenery	No lifeguards on duty

Silver Springs State Park (Ocala)

The Silver River is a spring-fed river that flows through the park and is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, and a variety of fish. You can rent a kayak or canoe from the park and paddle your way down the river, or you can take a guided tour on a glass-bottom boat to get a closer look at the underwater world.

The river is about 5 miles long and takes about 2-3 hours to float down, depending on the water level and your pace. The park has a few different launch points, so you can choose the length of your float. The river is suitable for all ages and skill levels, so it’s a great activity for families or groups.

In addition to the lazy river, Silver Springs State Park has plenty of other activities to offer. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the park’s trails, or take a swim in the refreshing springs. The park also has a museum showcasing the history of the area and a campground if you want to spend the night.

Choctawhatchee River (Multiple Locations)

The Choctawhatchee River winds through northwest Florida and offers plenty of opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing.

The river is a great option for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful, natural setting. There are multiple locations along the river where you can access the water, such as Morrison Springs, Cypress Springs, and Ponce de Leon Springs.

One of the best things about the Choctawhatchee River is the variety of scenery you’ll encounter along the way. From dense forests to open fields, you’ll get to experience a range of landscapes as you float downstream. Keep an eye out for wildlife, too – you might spot otters, turtles, or even alligators!