Entrance fee is $2 per person collected at a gate house near the spring headwaters about .25 miles from the parking lot. There are some short trails, a swimming area, restroom/changing rooms, pavilions and grilling areas and a lawn area for sunbathing. The visitor center and snack bar were closed on the day of our visit, Tuesday in February. There is a watercraft launch and rental area located just past the swimming area which we used to launch our paddle boards. You will need to carry your watercraft from the parking lot to that area. The water is crystal clear, deep and 72 degrees year round. Paddling was great, next to no obstacles with light currents. I have had more scenic experiences, much of the river is occupied by residential areas on one side. Wildlife is abundant, turtles, fish and birds are everywhere. As in any water source in Florida there are alligators but we did not observe any during out 3 hours on the water. Best of all were the small coves along the river which provided opportunities to pull over and cool off with a swim. There is a campground located 7 miles by road from the spring that has its own watercraft launch. Overall the park was a great experience although I’m sure it would be difficult to have that same option had we gone on a weekend, the park closes the gate at capacity, or had we not taken the watercraft out to explore the river away from the swimming area.

This is the heads springs for the Rainbow River the water is crystal clear. There is a roped off area for swimming. During the week it is not too crowded, a bit more peaceful and quiet. During the winter months, even quieter. A few waterfalls along a paved walkway and some fish ponds. Picnic tables, benches to relax on, public restrooms. The staff was very friendly. The nature trails are sand and very wooded but easy to navigate. Parking can be a problem During the summer months, have to get there early. You can rent kayaks there also, I didn't, so can't comment on that. Just a beautiful state park worth every bit of the $2 entrance fee.

We took a motorcycle ride and visited here to take in the scenery. The park was beautiful. It has a crystal clear spring area for swimming. It also had very pretty waterfall's for viewing. They had a gift shop, and a snack bar. There were also indoor restrooms. There is walking involved up, and down hill. It appeared that a motorized handicapped seated scooter could be used if needed. There was a $2.00 entry fee per person.

Huge dog friendly place to hike (at least 3 miles of trail, some off the beaten path). Man made waterfalls, azaleas, beautiful landscaping, and lots of ferns. The dogs can’t go in the springs, but the swimming area is neat. It’s 8 feet deep everywhere with a dock. Tiny holes everywhere burbeling with sand.

Beautiful state park with a botanical garden with walking paths, canoe/kayak area, restrooms with changing rooms and a swimming area. The parking lot is only a 5-10min walk away. You can tell this is a touristy destination by their gift shop, food stand & how they set up the park. The swimming area is smaller than expected, but still an amazing experience. I saw a sea turtle while swimming! They do charge a $2 admission. The campground is nice, clean and spacious. Check in was easy & staff was friendly. You can see the stars above in the night. The area is quiet & great for families.

You can find all your answers here before coming here. This place is so amazing to see one of the natural springs in Florida. Firstly, it's open all day, basically from sunrise to sunset, which sounds great! It's a perfectly clean environment with amazing natural sounds. Summertime is always packed, so I was able to visit in October, which made me feel like I was the only person in the state park. The weather here is a bit colder than in South Florida. The swimming pool area is a bit small, so it could be a problem during the summer for accommodating everyone. There's not enough flat space to sit on the ground for a picnic, but they do have a pavilion and a cafe. The restroom is close to the pool area. If you like, you can also do canoeing 🛶 or kayaking. Last but not least, it's $2 per person. Here's all you need: ⭐️ Bring a noodle; the water is a bit deep, but you can feel secure. ⭐️ Tubes are not allowed 🚫. ⭐️If you have a cart, keep in mind that parking and the pool area are about a 5-minute walk away. ⭐️Bring your snorkel 🤿 or goggles 👓. ⭐️I highly recommend bringing a wetsuit if you have one; the water is around 72 degrees all year. ⭐️Be ready to take amazing pictures!

One of the most beautiful places ever. The water are crystal clear and have the most beautiful colors. They have a huge lawn where you can just chill, and a bbq area where they also have tables and benches. They also have a small shop at the entrance for snacks and drinks. You can rent a kayak or puddle board for around 17$-27$ per hour (or around 50$ for the entire day). Another huge benefit to this spring is that they have beautiful trails where you can walk about and explore the nature around. GO THERE! Tubes are not allowed. You can bring your own kayak or puddle board as well (don’t know if they charge you an extra fee for that).

Very fun. Kids had a blast swimming. It was early January and only 65 degrees but the kids were more than happy to spend a few hours in the swimming area. Walking around park was very nice, lots of beautiful scenery, waterfalls and streams. Nature trails were also fun but didn’t get a chance to explore them all. Will definitely be returning next time we are here for vacation. To be clear, not sure if diving or jumping is allowed but it was 6-7’ deep and kids never got yelled at so🤷‍♂️

Very beautiful 😍 I did not expect the water to be so blue!! It was so pretty I had an amazing time. The water was crystal clear, and you could swim down and touch the springs. I highly recommend bringing a pair of goggles and, if you have some, snorkels. I went paddle boarding and saw fish, birds, and turtles. This was an exciting and superb experience. I would definitely go again but there are other springs I would like to see as well.

What a Bargain. For 2.00 per person you have a GREAT State Park that has finished walking paths, waterfalls, and outside WINTER SWIMMING in 72 degree crystal clear spring waters!!! ALL THIS IN JANUARY! Bring the family, a picnic lunch (plenty of places to sit and eat) and the Dog (on a leash) and enjoy some beautiful scenery. This park goes way back to the 1930's and is now kept in a more natural state.

It was my first time visiting and this place was seriously so beautiful. Some of the most incredible water I’ve ever gotten to swim in my life. I definitely recommend bringing a snorkel mask and a pool noodle when coming to swim here. I also recommend going early on a weekday to avoid busier times, we got there at 10:30 on a Thursday and didn’t have any issues getting in. I was worried about gators before coming swimming here, but after getting in I didn’t see any and felt very comfortable and safe swimming there. I’m already so excited to come back here again some time. Seriously check it out if you’re considering going! The springs are breathtaking and so refreshing to swim in.

This is truly a Florida gem. The park is beautiful, clean, friendly, nature-filled, economic, and impressive overall. Park guards/rangers are very friendly and helpful, and there’s always one posted at the main spots of the park, so you feel safe and always have someone to answer your questions. We were a group of 6, brought our own tent (only 4 sided tents not allowed in head springs picnic area), a small grill, and even a dominoes table. Large grassy area right next to the swimming area to lay down your towels and enjoy the views. We expected long lines and a large crowd, but due to the suspected tropical storm (which didn’t end up hitting this area), this Saturday morning was nice and quiet. We arrived around 8:30 & had the advantage of an almost empty swimming area. We also kayaked about 30 mins down the river, and the views were breathtaking. Cheap prices too. We parked at the headstrong entrance so we could have a long picnic. Bathrooms are also nice and clean. Perfect spot to experience something new and have a great time with family.

Beautiful place! Very well maintained, friendly staff. $2 entry fee per person. Not a lot of parking so, come early. A gift shop and a small cafe are available but, not always open so bring whatever you might need, just in case. If bringing small children, please bring some type of USCG-approved flotation device for them as the water is too deep for even adults to stand. There's no beach access, just steps and pier access. You are not allowed to hang out on the steps either so again, it's recommended to bring flotation devices for younger kids and non swimmers. Waterfalls, trails, covered picnic areas and open grassy areas for picnics and sitting are all some great features.

I've been here a couple times now and enjoyed each visit. Haven't been to many Florida state parks yet but this is one of my favorites. The kayaking is good and the gardens, flowers and waterfalls are beautiful. Worth a visit if you are near Ocala or looking to detour off I-75.

The nature is reach and beautiful We love it here because it was easy to find a shaded spot for a picnic under the trees and it’s very clean. Pets are allowed and there is lots of picnic table under the pavilions You can then jump in the deep water by the ramp. If you have small children with you bring a noodle, I’d like one for me too, the water is deep & the spring pool wide We rented a kayak for one hours and was enough There is a beautiful cafe over the spring and a gorgeous trail where you can take a walk trough what was a zoo in the ‘60st … along the trail there is small waterfall I think you’ll have to walk 3 miles to reach the bigger one Not tubes allowed

The best part about traveling to any spring in the state of Florida . Is getting there . And the back way is the most scenic Rainbow Springs is definitely at the top of the list for Springs. A little physical for somebody who is struggling with strength. There's waterfalls throughout the property, but it's a very hilly terrain. Handicap accessible to see the falls and around the spring. But not handicap to get into the water. I was very disappointed and exhausted after driving 3 hours to go there. I wasn't able to get into the water. I used the Springs as part of my therapy after having a broken back. I spoke to the Rangers about having a handicap accessible ramp that goes down into the water. Some of the Springs have the handicap chair. There is more than one handicap person going to the park. The park is beautifully maintained. The spring is absolutely breathtaking, always a 72° all year round. It's a $2 fee to get in and definitely worth it. There are several springs in the surrounding area. You can ask for a spring map and also a state park map for Florida. There are over 176 state parks, not including National in the State of Florida alone. And at least 75 Natural Springs in the state of Florida. Each one being more beautiful than another. I hope you enjoy my recommendation. Safe travel🏞 Simply Paradise MicheleG

This was my first time at Rainbow Springs. It was so beautiful. We got to the park soon after it opened hoping to beat the crowds. There was a lot of space to set up a blanket on the grassy areas or picnic tables. We went swimming almost right away, the water was cold but so clear so refreshing. There are also trails to walk on which are shady and cool. We made it to the waterfall and walked for a while futher. Then we went back to swimming and snacks. There are also areas for tubing, kayaking, or paddling boarding.

This is a great park to hangout and go for a swim. Entrance fee is $2 per person collected at a gate house a few hundred feet from the water. Follow the path from the parking lot. The park has a swimming area, restroom/changing rooms, pavilions and grilling areas and a lawn area for sunbathing. The visitor center and snack bar were closed on the day of our visit in April. The water is crystal clear, deep and 72 degrees year round. Swimming was great just keep in mind there’s nowhere to rest if you are not at the peer or wearing a life jacket. Overall the park was a great experience which I credit the time of year and the time of day we visited. I’m sure it gets busy and crowded on the summer weekends.

The water was 72 degrees. It was beautiful, blue and cold. It's at least 7 plus feet deep. The waterfalls around the nature trails were pretty. They do need additional tables, chairs and BBQ grills. If you want to grill, make sure you get there early to get a grill. It has a nice open field for picnics and play time. You can bring your dogs to this park. They do have a cafe on site or you can bring your own food. You can use a kayak to view the wonderful and beautiful nature God created. I've lived in Florida all my life, and I didn't know this place was here. I really enjoyed the trails and cold water. You only have to pay $2.00 to get in, and make sure you keep your receipt for re entry (just in case you need to go back to your car or to get something to eat). It is a must see if you love the great outdoors! Enjoy!

Loved this park and the people serving as the staff really showed how much they love this unique spot as well. The swimming hole was nice. The gift shop sells noodles for 3 dollars, which is super reasonable as the swimming area is a little deep, and the noodle really helps with floating out there and watching the turtles. We rented a tandem kayak and had a wonderful time exploring the river and the banks of the perfectly clear water. They have someone with a little electric motor patrolling the area, who can help if there's any problem. There's just so much to see. Dragonflies, bumblebees, all the vegetation, dozens of turtles, cormorants, egrets, cranes, and fish. The prices are reasonable even for just an hour out.

This place is beautiful. Manybtrails to walk and enjoy nature. The spring water is crystal clear and at a constant temperature of 72°F. It is also a good place to rent or bring your own kayak. Their gift store is also a good place to stop by and the food it good. Would definitely visit again. Next time, I will do their tubing down the river.

The place is magical. Great for spending the weekend. The only downside was that the actual swimming area and the rental area were closed due to a storm. The trails were amazing! As for the food sold at the cafeteria, the cheeseburger was a 10/10.

Beautiful spring. A few man made waterfalls, only one was working during my visit. $2 per person fee to enter into the park. Parking is plentiful. Nice, paved walkways. Restrooms, visitors center, gift shop and concession area are nice and cared for. There are pavilions and a nice grassy area for picnics on a blanket. Dog friendly. Smoking areas. The spring itself is large. The swimming area is deep. The gift shop sells floats for $4 for this reason- you cannot stand. There are benches for sitting or for your belongings- you enter the spring from a floating dock and aluminum ladder going into the water. The swimming area is clearly roped off. Kayaking and paddle boards are available to rent by the hour or day at decent rates.

Wow wow wow! The experience you get here is truly unforgettable. Such a beautiful spring. Crystal clear water and cool. With a swimming area and also kayak and canoe rentals. Restrooms are on site. Lots of areas to setup a nice picnic. The views were beautiful here. It does get busy on the weekends. So it's best to arrive right before they open. For only $2 per person to get in. It's the best experience you can have for that price. Btw you are allowed to snorkel in the swimming area.

This place is on of a kind. Never seen such clear water. You pay a 2$ park fee and they may close the park if there are too many people (according to the sign next to the entrance) You can enjoy a swim in the fresh water or go on a hike on the trails. Warning for those using the "yellow trail". We have hiked for quiet a bit and it feels like it leads to nowhere. We haven't had a map so weren't sure how far we can go.

My husband and I went paddle boarding at rainbow springs and we loved it! Beautiful river! We didn’t get to see much wildlife but it was still worth seeing the crystal clear water.

Gorgeous park! Was our first time visiting a Florida natural spring, and we loved it! We went on a Friday and got there around 10am and had no issue renting a tandem kayak. The price is great too, as they charge you once you return, and if you go above 3 hrs then it's just a flat rate for the whole day. Water is crystal clear and they keep the park and waters pristine. Super refreshing to swim in too after you've kayaked for an hour in the hot sun! Only warning I'll give is it does get very crowded after 12. If you prefer a more peaceful adventure come Mon-Thurs, as I'm sure less people will be around

Beautiful park. Lots to see. Walked the yellow and white hiking trail. Very well maintained. Trail was not busy at all. We even saw deer. I would recommend going early as it was getting a bit crowded, for my taste, when we were leaving. The spring of course is simply breathtaking. Crystal clear water, can see the fish swimming.

This park is breath taking! The staff are so helpful and incredibly sweet! We visited the garden side and enjoyed the waterfalls. We saw a deer which was really nice. We took our mat for the baby and enjoyed nature under a shade tree in the sunshine and fresh air. They also have a Spring on the other side you can enjoy. Plenty of sitting areas & gazebos. They offer a concession as well. Bathroom was clean. I highly recommend checking this state park out. Entrance fee was only $2.00

Nice spot for the family outing. Our first time visiting and we paid $4.00 just to walk around and check out. The waterfall we visited was dry so not too impressed. The staff was very friendly and told us that they're waiting for funding to get the waterfall pump fixed. Ample parking clean facility, not our gig .

We booked an overnight camping for the weekend. Booking for overnight weekend is hard because it gets booked pretty quickly. We checked in around 6pm. We got a call for the gate code and entering the campsite was easy too. The campsite was a bit smaller than the other campsites we’ve been to but it was okay. We had an easy access to restroom and it was a short walk going to the rentals. The water is so clear and beautiful. It’s deep so don’t forget your life vest especially when traveling with kids. We saw a baby snake, turtles, a lot of birds and owls. Nô alligator when we canoed. Overall it’s a pretty sight. It gets crowded in the weekend. By the way, there’s waterfalls, a small one.

It is a beautiful park where you flow down the spring. I do warn you that I did see a small alligator towards the trees. They have life jackets you can wear. It also may take you about one hour and a half to two hours to go from the drop site back to the park entrance, which is where you parked.

Beautiful park and spring. Water is too deep to stand, so bring a noodle, inflatables aren't allowed. Nice bathrooms and concession but a lot of food items were sold out. You can bring a cooler, no alcohol, but they do sell some beers and hard seltzer at the concession stand. It is a moderate walk from parking to get to the spring.

Beautiful water and large grassy areas to bring a tent or lay out a picnic blanket in the shade. We paid $2 for the 2 of us to get in. We were told you cannot bring your own noodles, so you have to purchase a noodle from the shop if you want one. I think it was $3! We did the kayaking and then swam in the open spring. Got there around 8:45am and had no issue with parking. When we left around 12:30pm, they had closed the park off to more visitors as they reached capacity. I think it’s best to get there before 11am or this could happen, in which case you will have to wait until they open it up again when another wave of people leave. Who knows how long that could take! Get there early. The kayaking was a great time as we’ve kayaked before but note that they don’t give you any directions or instructions, they just say “okay, get in — have fun!” Lol. I mean that was fine for us but if it’s your first time you might feel a little uneasy without getting any direction on how to kayak. I think you can go as far as you want — you pay by the hour. We kayaked for an hour and a half and paid $27 total. There are restrooms at the top by the shop and then there are also some when you go down near the spring. You can leave the park if you need to, just keep your receipt and they will let you skip the line and come back in.

Beautiful spring. The water was super clear and cold. The grounds are well maintained. Only $2 per person makes this a great way to spend some time and experience nature, without spending much money. The only problem was that there were so many people in a very small swimming area. I'll be back in the off season.

Really cool springs! For some reason it was hard for me to find between the three entrances. I enjoy the free parking and $2 park fee there is so much to see! This is definitely a populated spring, lots of people all over in the summer. Would love to come back when a little less populated. Went kayaking out and feel like that’s a must!

I have been in other similar parks, but this one is by far the best! From areas to walk, to swim, to kayaking and just spending day with your loved ones, this place is over the top! Add their park volunteers kindness and you'll have a great time. Highly recommended.

What can I say? B E A U T I F U L!!!! Kayak rental on site, just a short beautiful walk from the entry booth; reasonable prices. Nature trail with cute waterfalls. Clean and quiet. Water is crystal clear… surreal!!! Must see!