Weekend Getaway: Ponce De Leon Springs State Park

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Weekend Getaway: Ponce De Leon Springs State Park

Weekend Getaways

There are so many activities to do and adventures to have in our home state of Alabama. We've talked about the state parks, national forests, and outdoor adventure opportunities, such as hiking and kayaking, that this state offers, but what we haven't covered yet is how conveniently Alabama is located! We border Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida, all of which provide numerous weekend getaway options! Today we are going to highlight Ponce De Leon Springs State Park in Florida!

About Ponce De Leon Springs State Park

Located just 3 hours and 45 minutes away from Birmingham, the Ponce De Leon Springs State Park is the perfect weekend getaway! The spring got its name from Juan Ponce de León, who led the first Spanish expedition to Florida in 1513 in search of the "fountain of youth." While it isn't the fountain of youth, Ponce de Leon Springs' beautiful, crystal clear water remains at a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it our favorite spot to go for a swim during the hot summer months!

Technically, Ponce de Leon Springs occupies 386 acres, but two thirds of that is located in the south end and is not open to the public. In the area that is open to the public, you will find the springs, two hiking/walking trails, picnic tables and pavilions, grills, restroom facilities, and a shower station. Make sure to pack a GO-KOT so you can lay out in the sun and relax by the springs!

Plan Your Visit

Hours:

  • The park is open 365 days a year from 8am until sunset!

Price: 

  • $4 per vehicle, with a limit of 8 people per vehicle.
  • $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, or for passengers in a vehicle who have an Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
  • If a park ranger is not present, please pay with exact change using the honor box. 

Activities: 

  • Swimming
  • Hiking 
  •  Fishing
  • Snorking
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Picnicking 

 

Where To Stay:

There are not any campsites located within Ponce De Leon Springs State Park, however Vortex Spring is only 10 minutes away and they offer both tent and RV sites. There are also several campgrounds less than 30 minutes away, including Sapphire Island Camping and RV Resort, Outback Springs RV Resort, and Brass Haven Campground. 

 

For more information about Ponce De Leon Springs, visit Florida State Parks!

 

All photos used with permission from Water No Bubbles.


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