The Spring Itself
- Description: DeLeon Springs features a natural spring with a constant temperature of 72°F. The spring is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It discharges 19 million gallons of water daily.
- Swimming Area: The spring has a designated swimming area, making it an ideal place for a refreshing swim. The average depth of DeLeon Springs is about 18 feet. The spring is about 3 feet at its most shallow point and about 30 feet deep at its deepest point and has several underwater vents and limestone formations that contribute to its depth and clarity, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
- Underwater Features: You can explore underwater vents and limestone formations while snorkeling or diving.
- Waterfall: The spring’s crystal-clear waters flow into the murky St. Johns River via a beautiful man-made waterfall.
History
- Native American Presence: The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, who used the spring for drinking water and as a fishing spot.
- Colonial Era: Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León is believed to have visited the spring in his quest for the Fountain of Youth in the early 1500s.
- 19th Century Development: In the 1800s, the site became a popular health resort. A sugar mill and a hotel were built, attracting visitors who sought the spring’s supposed health benefits.
- Modern Era: The state of Florida acquired the land in 1982, turning it into DeLeon Springs State Park.
Things to Do
- Swimming and Snorkeling: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the spring for a refreshing swim or snorkeling adventure.
- Paddling: Rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or Pedle Boat and explore the surrounding waterways of the St. Johns River. Rental prices for all the paddle crafts can be found at DeLeon Springs Adventures.
- Boating: Bring your own boat or rent one to enjoy fishing or leisurely boating in the spring’s connected waterways.
- Hiking: Explore the park’s trails, including the 4.2-mile Wild Persimmon Hiking Trail, which takes you through diverse ecosystems.
- Picnicking: Take advantage of the park’s picnic areas, complete with tables, grills, and pavilions.
- Old Sugar Mill Pancake House: Dine at the park’s restaurant, where you can make your own pancakes on griddles built into the tables.
- Fountain of Youth Boat Tour: The Fountain of Youth Boat Tour offers a 50-minute guided exploration through diverse ecosystems and historical sites, showcasing the park’s rich natural beauty and wildlife.
- Educational Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs and learn about the park’s natural and cultural history.
Nearby Trails
- Wild Persimmon Trail: This 4.2-mile trail offers a challenging hike through various habitats, including pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and hardwood forests.
- Spring-to-Spring Trail: Part of a longer trail system in Volusia County, this trail connects DeLeon Springs to other nearby parks and natural areas, providing opportunities for extended hikes or bike rides.
- Paddling Trails: Explore the network of waterways connected to the spring, offering routes for canoeing and kayaking through scenic landscapes.
Additional Information
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species. You may spot these animals while exploring the park or paddling through its waterways.
- Fishing: Bring your fishing gear to enjoy fishing in the spring run or nearby lakes.
- Accessibility: The park offers accessible amenities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and pathways.
Location and How to Get There
Location
DeLeon Springs State Park is situated in Central Florida, within Volusia County. The park is approximately 23 miles west of Daytona Beach and 45 miles north of Orlando, making it easily accessible for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Major Roads and Highways
- Interstate 4 (I-4): This major interstate connects the park to larger cities like Orlando and Daytona Beach. Use exit 114 if coming from Orlando or exit 118 if coming from Daytona Beach.
- U.S. Highway 17 (US 17): Running north-south, US 17 is another key route to reach the park. The park entrance is located just off US 17.
Directions
From Orlando:
1. Take I-4 East towards Daytona Beach.
2. Exit at 114 towards FL-472/Deland.
3. Merge onto FL-472 West and continue on FL-15 Alt N/FL-44 W.
4. Turn right onto US-17 N/FL-15 N.
5. Follow US-17 N to Ponce Deleon Blvd in DeLeon Springs.
6. Turn left onto Ponce Deleon Blvd; the park entrance will be on your right.
From Daytona Beach:
1. Take I-4 West towards Orlando.
2. Exit at 118 for FL-44 toward New Smyrna Beach/DeLand Historic District.
3. Turn right onto FL-44 W.
4. Turn right onto US-17 N/FL-15 N.
5. Follow US-17 N to Ponce Deleon Blvd in DeLeon Springs.
6. Turn left onto Ponce Deleon Blvd; the park entrance will be on your right.
From Jacksonville:
1. Take I-95 South towards Daytona Beach.
2. Exit at 273 for US-1 South towards Ormond Beach/Bunnell.
3. Merge onto US-1 South.
4. Turn right onto FL-40 W.
5. Turn left onto FL-11 S.
6. Turn right onto Ponce Deleon Blvd; the park entrance will be on your left.
Once you arrive, there’s plenty of signs that guide you to the main areas of interest within the park, including the spring, picnic areas, and trails. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year, and there’s a small entrance fee per vehicle.
Entrance Fee
The entrance fees into the park are extremely reasonable, which is honestly one of the things I love the most about the park. They go as follows:
- $6.00 per vehicle, 2 to 8 people
- $4.00 per vehicle one person only
- $4.00 per motorcycle
- $2.00 per person for a pedestrian or bicyclist
Old Sugar Mill Pancake House
History
The Old Sugar Mill Pancake House is a unique dining experience located within DeLeon Springs State Park. This is one of the park’s main draws and most popular attractions. Housed in a historic 100-year-old replica of the original 1830s sugar mill, the restaurant offers a charming and nostalgic atmosphere. The original mill was built during the height of the sugar industry in Florida and served as a significant agricultural and industrial site before it was destroyed during the Second Seminole War. The replica, constructed in the early 1900s, preserves the history and spirit of the original mill.
Dining Experience
Pancake Griddles: The highlight of the Old Sugar Mill Restaurant is the make-your-own-pancake experience. Each table is equipped with a built-in griddle where you can cook your pancakes to perfection. You receive a pitcher of homemade pancake batter, with choices between unbleached white flour or five-grain mix (ground on-site), and can add various toppings like blueberries, bananas, and chocolate chips.
Menu Options: In addition to pancakes, the restaurant offers a variety of other breakfast and lunch items. You can enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, and more. For lunch, there are sandwiches, salads, and burgers available.
Beverages: The restaurant serves a selection of beverages, including fresh-squeezed orange juice, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
Ambiance
Rustic Charm: The interior of the restaurant maintains a rustic charm with exposed wooden beams, vintage milling equipment, and large windows overlooking the serene spring.
Family-Friendly: The hands-on pancake-making experience is especially popular with families, providing a fun and interactive meal for all ages.
Scenic Views: Dining at the Old Sugar Mill allows you to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape and the spring, adding to the overall experience.
Note: The Pancake House is unfortunately not air-conditioned. I’ve eaten here in the summer, and while the food is excellent, it was too hot inside for me. I wouldn’t really recommend eating here during the summer unless you’re prepared to brave the heat. Eating here during the Fall and Winter is a great idea though. Also, keep in mind that the restaurant is very popular, so wait times can be in excess of over an hour, depending on the time of day. Usually, mornings have longer wait times.
Old Methuselah
Description
Old Methuselah is a remarkable bald cypress tree located within DeLeon Springs State Park. This ancient tree is a significant natural landmark, estimated to be over 500 years old. Standing tall and majestic, Old Methuselah provides a glimpse into the past, having witnessed centuries of natural and human history in the area. You can find Old Methuselah along one of the park’s walking trails, and it’s only about a 5-minute walk from the spring itself.
Characteristics
- Species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
- Age: Approximately 500 years old
- Height: Over 70 feet tall
- Trunk Diameter: Several feet in diameter, showcasing its impressive size and age
Monkey Island
Description:
This is a rather quirky part of the park’s history. The island was home to several monkeys when the park was a tourist attraction back in the 1950s and 1960s. A “jungle-themed” tour boat cruise would float past the island and other stops, such as old Methuselah. The monkeys were brought here to increase the park’s jungle image.
Today, the “island” isn’t really much of an island and isn’t much to look at, in my opinion. It’s very overgrown and at this point is being reclaimed by nature. If you didn’t know any better you wouldn’t even know it used to be an island. The trail is also somewhat poorly marked, so it’s somewhat difficult to find. It’s slightly off the main trail, and there’s no signage pointing towards it. The first time I tried looking for it, I unknowingly passed it. The only reason I ended up finding it was because another hiker guided me in the right direction.
I can’t necessarily say I’d recommend the hike one way or the other. I suppose it’s worth it if you have the time, mainly because it is a pretty interesting part of the park’s history. The Monkey Island Trail is a short 0.8-mile out-and-back trail that only takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from the spring itself.
Fountain of Youth Boat Tour
Overview: The Fountain of Youth Boat Tour provides a guided exploration of the natural and historical features of DeLeon Springs State Park. The boat tour travels for a 50-minute ride through Cypress Swamps, Hardwood Hammocks, Marshlands, and open water areas. This educational tour provides insights into the area’s rich history and abundant wildlife, making it a relaxing and informative experience for visitors of all ages.
Duration: The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.
Departure Point: Tours depart from the dock near the Old Sugar Mill Restaurant.
Times: On weekdays, the tour departs five times daily at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. On weekends, the boat departs every hour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ticket Prices:
| $19 | Adults Ages 6-64 |
| $18 | Seniors Ages 65+ |
| $17 | Military/First Responders ID Required |
| $12 | Children Ages 3-5 |
| Free | Small Chidlren Ages 0-2 |
Reservations: You can purchase tickets inside the park or make a reservation online at DeLeon Springs Adventures.
Wildlife
Along the tour, you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, ospreys, and other waterfowl. You might also spot manatees, especially during colder months, as well as alligators, turtles, and various fish species.
Historical Insights
Narration: The tour includes an informative narration about the park’s history.
Topics Covered: Native American heritage, Spanish exploration, and the legend of the Fountain of Youth.
Parking
The parking area inside the park is a pretty decent size. There’s lots of shady parking spots around thanks to several massive oak trees. The walk from the parking lot to the spring area is 5 to 10 minutes depending on your speed and physical fitness. I would recommend that you bring some sort of wagon or cart with you to carry your belongings if you have a lot of stuff to carry.
Weather and Temperature at DeLeon Springs State Park
Spring (March to May)
Temperature: Average highs range from 75°F to 85°F, with lows between 55°F and 65°F.
Weather: Mild and pleasant with occasional rain showers. This is one of the best times to visit the park due to comfortable temperatures and blooming flowers.
Summer (June to August)
Temperature: Average highs range from 85°F to 95°F, with lows between 70°F and 75°F.
Weather: Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The spring’s constant 72°F water temperature provides a refreshing escape from the heat.
Fall (September to November)
Temperature: Average highs range from 75°F to 85°F, with lows between 55°F and 70°F.
Weather: Cooler and drier than summer, with less humidity and fewer storms. Fall offers a comfortable climate for outdoor activities and exploring the park’s trails.
Winter (December to February)
Temperature: Average highs range from 65°F to 75°F, with lows between 45°F and 55°F.
Weather: Mild and dry, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. This season is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, as animals are more active in the cooler weather.
General Tips
Rainfall: The park experiences the highest rainfall during the summer months, particularly in June and July. Be prepared for sudden rain showers and thunderstorms.
Humidity: Humidity levels are highest in the summer, making it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Spring and fall are generally more comfortable with moderate humidity.
Clothing: Dress in layers during spring and fall to accommodate changing temperatures. In summer, wear lightweight, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. In winter, a light jacket or sweater may be needed in the early morning and evening.
Best Time of Day To Visit
I’ve visited this park many times, and trust me when I say it can get BUSY. This is especially the case in the morning and afternoon. Lines into the park during this time can be long, often stretching outside of the park. If you want to spend the majority of the day at the park, I highly recommend you get there early. The park frequently closes temporarily once it reaches full capacity. Closures occur intermittently and for an unknown duration of time. This is especially true during the summer when kids are out of school.
My personal preference for visiting the park is usually during the late afternoon to early evening hours. I try to avoid crowds whenever I visit the springs, so I usually like to show up around 4 to 5 p.m. Around then, people start to clear out of the park which makes the experience a whole lot more enjoyable. I realize, for many, that this is probably pretty late to show up for most people, but for anyone like me who enjoys peace and quiet, it’s the ideal time to arrive.
Pets
The park is pet-friendly, but pets must be on a hand-held, 6-foot leash at all times. Pet owners must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet droppings in trash receptacles. Service animals are also welcome in all areas of the park.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, in my opinion, DeLeon Springs State Park is one of the best Springs in Central Florida. Some of my favorite aspects of the park include:
- Beauty: The spring is one of the most beautiful in the area with beautiful blue/green water. The surrounding landscape is gorgeous as well with old-growth cypress forests, the St. Johns River, and towering moss-draped oak trees that are hundreds of years old.
- Depth: The spring’s water has an average depth of 18 feet, which makes it perfect for swimming around, doing laps, and diving. Some springs aren’t deep enough to submerge your whole body. DeLeon is basically like a giant natural swimming pool which makes it rather unique.
- Accessibility: The park is approximately 23 miles west of Daytona Beach and 45 miles north of Orlando, making it fairly easy to reach for both day trips and weekend getaways.
- Price: At $6 per vehicle to enter the park, the admission cost is extremely reasonable. Privately owned springs such as Silver Glen and Alexander Springs charge $13 per person, which is a significant price difference.
FAQS
How much does it cost to get in Ponce de Leon Springs?
The cost to get in Ponce de Leon Springs goes as follows:
| $19 | Adults Ages 6-64 |
| $18 | Seniors Ages 65+ |
| $17 | Military/First Responders ID Required |
| $12 | Children Ages 3-5 |
| Free | Small Chidlren Ages 0-2 |
Is it safe to swim in De Leon Springs?
Yes, it’s generally pretty safe to swim here. There are no alligators in the spring itself, just some fish and the occasional turtle or two. Keep in mind though, that the spring itself is pretty deep in places, so if you’re not a strong swimmer bring some sort of floatation device.
What is the water temperature in De Leon Springs?
The water maintains a refreshing 72°F year-round.
Are there manatees at Deleon Springs?
While manatees can’t reach the spring’s swimming area, they can be seen inside the river swimming around and occasionally munching on vegetation by the waterfall area
Are there gators in DeLeon Springs?
There are no gators inside the swimming area of the spring, but there are alligators in the river section. However, the swimming area is separated from the river via a man-made waterfall, so alligators can’t swim up into the spring.
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