De Leon Springs: Swimming and Pancakes in Wild Florida
De Leon Springs State Park offers visitors a chance to experience wild Florida’s natural beauty and history. Located in De Leon Springs, Florida, this 625-acre park features a big swimming area, hiking trails, and a famous pancake house. It’s the perfect spot to dive into refreshing waters on an extra hot summer day.
Things to Do at De Leon Springs
Swim in the 72-Degree Waters
The spring-fed swimming area is the centerpiece of De Leon Springs. The water remains a constant 72 degrees year-round, making it a refreshing escape on hot days. The pool is circular and surrounded by shady trees, picnic spots, and areas for sunbathing.
More: Best Swimming Holes in the Corridor’s Ocala National Forest
Explore the Subtropical Forest
The park’s hiking trails wind through areas of lush, subtropical forest. Visitors can see a variety of native plants, including old-growth cypress trees. Wildlife is also common here, so keep an eye out for birds and other animals along the way. The trails are suitable for walking and bicycling, offering a good way to explore De Leon Springs on foot or wheels.
Pedal power! Saddle Up for Sunshine: Epic Bike Cruises in Wild Florida
Take the Fountain of Youth Boat Tour
The Fountain of Youth boat tour is a 50-minute trip that highlights De Leon Springs’ natural and cultural history. Guests learn about the area’s nearly 6,000 years of human activity, from the Mayaca Indians to more recent settlements. The tour is a relaxing way to learn about De Leon Springs while enjoying views of the water and surrounding forest.
Accessible adventure: Glass Bottom Boat Tours for All at Silver Springs State Park
See the Historic Spring Run
The spring run area at De Leon Springs has been used for centuries. It supplied water for sugar cane and grist mills in the past, and visitors can still see remnants of this history. Nearby interpretive panels provide more detail about the people and events connected to De Leon Springs.
Enjoy a Pancake Breakfast
One unique feature at De Leon Springs is a make-your-own pancake restaurant, the Old Sugar Mill Pancake House. Visitors can cook breakfast right at their table! The restaurant is a family-friendly spot and adds a fun start to the day before heading out for swimming or hiking.
Plan Your Visit to De Leon Springs
- Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. until sundown
- Fees: $6 per vehicle (up to 8 people); $4 per single-occupant vehicle; $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Boat tour is extra.
- Facilities: Swimming area, hiking trails, boat tours, picnic spots, and a pancake restaurant
The park is welcoming to visitors of all ages and abilities. Its trails, interpretative displays, and historic features provide opportunities for learning and exploration.
