H
COVER STORY These southern gems boast crystal clear water , warm , relaxing temperatures , and fun to be had for all .
How many times have you packed the family up in the car to take them to some sort of water adventure that ended up being more expensive , and less fun than you thought it would be ? Save yourself the trouble this season , and plan your next vacation around a natural waterpark . These southern gems boast crystal clear water , warm , relaxing temperatures , and fun to be had for all .
A spring is a natural condition in which water flows to the earth ’ s surface from an aquifer . As a part of the hydrosphere , a spring is essentially a filtration system that allows water to travel through the earth like drainage pipes . When water emerges from the surface over time , it will create a pool , thus bringing us a natural spring .
Natural springs are usually full of crystal-clear water , deep caverns and underwater cave systems , and a diverse ecosystem , with many different species of wildlife that call the environment home . Florida is the world capital of these natural wonders we call springs . There are well over 1,000 different freshwater springs in the state , and because they are used like a drain , they consistently pump out more than 8 billion gallons of water every single day .
These beautiful springs have recreational perks , with some of the best outdoor activities in the region being available nearly all year round . Visitors will enjoy the wide variety of things to do , from paddling , canoeing , kayaking , and tubing , to cave diving , snorkeling , scuba diving , hiking , camping , swimming , and more .
One of the most popular Florida springs is the Blue Spring State Park . Just over half a million visitors make their way to Blue Springs each year for some fun in the sun . One of the best things about Blue Springs is the abundance of manatees . There are hundreds of these loveable sea creatures that flock to this spring during the winter , and stay through the springtime . Boat tours are available for those who don ’ t have equipment , or simply just want to sit back and relax while enjoying the views . Canoe rentals and tubing rentals are available nearby , but many of the visitors are here just for the swimming and snorkeling .
“ NaTuRaL SpRiNgS ArE UsUaLlY FuLl Of CrYsTaL-ClEaR WaTeR , DeEp CaVeRnS AnD UnDeRwAtEr CaVe SyStEmS , AnD A DiVeRsE EcOsYsTeM , WiTh MaNy DiFfErEnT SpEcIeS Of WiLdLiFe ThAt CaLl ThE EnViRoNmEnT HoMe .”
Travel South | Spring 2018 | 91