COVER STORY
Tubing
The Best Spots to Go in Florida this Summer Natural Springs and Water Park Lazy Rivers by Nancy DeVault of TampaBayDateNightGuide.com
Adventure Island
With more than 900 natural springs, about 40 of which are open to the public, Florida is the perfect state to explore via its waterways. What better way than by hopping into a tube to drift alongside your family? Here are our picks for the best places to go tubing in Florida:
ROCK SPRINGS RUN AT KELLY PARK | APOPKA
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Wekiwa Springs converges with Rock Springs, a crater-edged creek within Kelly Park, to form the headwaters of the 17-mile-long Wekiva River leading to the St. Johns River. Rock Springs Run is a brisk 67-degree stream adored by tubers and kayakers. Be sure to bring your own f loat or rent one for about $7 at the roadside concession before entering the park. It’s okay to use a pool noodle or a f loat that is less than 5 feet in length. ly el
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This is a shorter tube run that can easily be enjoyed multiple times throughout your visit. Pack a picnic to enjoy during a break from the water. Plan for a drive of about 1.5 hours from Tampa. You can also launch a canoe or kayak from Kings Landing to twist your way amongst alligators, birds, turtles, otters and rarely seen monkeys. Like Orlando-area theme parks, Kelly Park can get packed, so arrive early before park capacity is met.
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TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2021
ICHETUCKNEE SPRINGS STATE PARK | FORT WHITE Considered the crown jewel of tubing destinations, Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located about 2.5 hours north of Tampa, just beyond Alachua. Ichetucknee is actually a cluster of nine springs that collectively gush well over 200 million gallons of brisk water every day. Archaeologists discovered two Indian mounds and a village site on the grounds of this National Natural Landmark. The 72-degree spring-fed water is crystal clear so you can see all the way down to the white sandy bottom. You’ll discover fish, turtles and more. Ichetucknee Springs is described as a peaceful place where stress simply drifts away. To experience it, bring your own tube or rent one from either the park stand or an outside vendor. Tubing is accessible from the south entrance. FYI: the park limits the number of daily visitors (so arrive early) and limits imported items such as potential trash such as food and disposables. PARK ENTRY: $6 per car, plus an option for $5.50 tram service or $7.50 shuttle service
