Wakulla Springs is a magnificent Florida state park that contains one of the largest and deepest freshwater springs in the world. Very popular with both locals and tourists in summer, Wakulla Springs is located near the city of Tallahassee. It is even in this spring that the mastodon skeleton displayed at the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee was discovered.

Wakulla Springs State Park

Depending on the season and temperatures, you can swim in the spring, splash along the river’s edge, enjoy the raft, or dive from the platform as many visitors do. There is of course a protected swimming area, which allows people to enjoy the park safely either in the sun or in the shade of the trees. Picnicking and barbecuing are also possible, as is often the case in the USA. It is also possible to dive in the park.

Visitors will notice warning signs about alligators, but if you stay in the indicated and protected areas there should be no issue. Do not hesitate to walk through the magnificent and very well-preserved garden, just like in many American state parks. There are numerous trails with maps available from the rangers at the entrance.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Boat cruise on the river

Daily boat cruises are offered in the park to allow visitors to discover the wildlife and flora of Wakulla Springs: manatees, alligators, herons, deer, Florida turtles, and more. It is a beautiful ride beneath the trees covered with moss that are so often seen in Florida.

If the water is clear enough, it is also possible to take a glass-bottom boat cruise that allows you to see the river bottom, which adds another dimension to the experience.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Lodge

Inside the state park, there is the historic Wakulla Lodge, open year-round. It is the only hotel available inside a Florida state park and it represents a true journey into the past. This Spanish-style building dating from 1937 blends perfectly into the landscape of the park. If you wish to stay there, it is better to book in advance, especially in summer when demand is very high.

Restaurant

The park also includes the Edward Ball Dining Room, a restaurant reputed for its white bean soup and Southern fried chicken. You can also enjoy Southern dishes such as Cajun specialties and oysters there, as well as breakfast.

What makes Wakulla Springs especially memorable is that it combines spring water, wildlife, old-Florida atmosphere, and a very strong natural setting. It is the kind of place that feels both relaxing and deeply characteristic of a wilder side of Florida.

For travelers interested in nature and freshwater environments, it is clearly one of the standout stops of the region.

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is one of the most beautiful freshwater nature experiences to discover in Florida.