A first magnitude spring and haven for wintering manatees.
The Setting
For millennia, Manatee Springs and the surrounding area have provided a home site and livelihood for humans. Artifacts found in the spring and adjacent areas indicate that people have been living and raising their families here for at least 9,000 years. The arrival of Spaniards during the 1500s brought an end to a series of cultures that lived in harmony with the earth for thousands of years.
In 1774, William Bartram, a naturalist, botanist and artist, traveled through the area while exploring the Southeast. Later, he wrote a book about his travels, in which he described Manatee Springs in detail and noted the presence of manatees.
Between 35 and 150 million gallons of crystal clear water flow from this first magnitude spring every day. The water percolates through limerock to underground caves that feed the spring. This aquatic cave system is one of the longest in North America and harbors rare species of crayfish.
The spring water flows through the quarter-mile long spring run to join the tannin-stained waters of the Suwannee River en route to the Gulf of Mexico. This brings fresh water to Suwannee Sound, an estuary about twenty-five miles down river.
Water and fire are the two greatest influences shaping the ecology of this park. Water-loving trees grow in the swamps and bottomland forests surrounding the spring and bordering the Suwannee River and spring run. Upland areas of the park host drier habitats such as sandhill communities and upland pine forests. Here, fire is a naturally occurring event that these habitats depend upon for their survival. To assist in restoring and maintaining these natural communities, the park conducts prescribed burns.
The Facility
Manatee Springs State Park has a 92-site campground with electricity and water in each site. These sites are available for tent or RV use. There are centralized restrooms with showers. Sites 26-39 and site number 48 are for tent camping only. Located in the Magnolia 1 camping area, these sites allow park visitors to camp in a more rustic setting. Pets are allowed in all camping areas. A campground for non-profit youth groups is available for tent camping.
Camping Tips
• Hours are 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year.
• Pets are permitted in designated areas only. Pets must be kept on a hand-held leash no longer than 6 feet and be well behaved at all times. Pets are not allowed in the primitive camping area.
• Florida’s state parks are committed to providing equal access to all facilities and programs. Should you need assistance to enable your participation, please contact the ranger station.
Park Features
Manatee Springs State Park is home to one of Florida’s largest freshwater springs. A popular summer recreation site, Manatee Springs is an important winter refuge for West Indian manatees. From November through April, these gentle giants are regular visitors to the spring and a favorite attraction for park visitors.
The north end trail system has 8.5 miles of trails for walking or bicycling.
The spring is ideal for swimming and scuba diving, especially during the warm weather months. The spring run and Suwannee River are well suited for canoeing or kayaking. Rental canoes are available from outfitters which operate near the park.
Boat ramps are located just outside the park. Anglers find the Suwannee River a fine place for reeling in bass, a variety of sunfish species and catfish. A Florida freshwater fishing license may be required.
Pavilions located in the picnic area may be reserved for group gatherings.
Seasonal interpretive programs and activities are offered on a variety of topics.
Location
Manatee Springs State Park
11650 NW 115th Street
Chiefland, FL 32626
(352) 493-6072
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