We found water clearer than Windex!!!
Ginnie Springs ~ the perfect Florida oasis. There is really nothing more to say!
Just kidding, we have a lot to say on this place...
Whenever we adventure to somewhere new we never set an expectation on a place. Any time you set an expectation your likely to be let down in some way; we just go with an open mind and find joy in anything we experience along the way. So, like all our weekly adventures our trip to Ginnie Springs was spontaneous! We put together a lunch, some snacks, and plenty of water (always be prepared with your own food and beverage items) and threw our gear into the back of the car. By gear, we mean fins, snorkel and wet suites.
Once we paid for our entry fee at the welcome center, the staff members explained how Ginnie Springs offered various spring systems to explore. The kind lady at the welcome desk also made sure to point out how the springs remain at 75F all year round; it's still January and currently the air temperature is 60F so, we were thrilled to hear the water was warmer than the air.
Here is a map of Ginnie Springs to show you the layout.
One of the of the many things we liked about Ginnie Springs was how everything was walking distance or available by car. Another great addition is, camping along the river... each camp site offers full electric and water hook-ups with a first come, first serve bases. Something we will definitely be returning to do.
Ginnie Springs offer so many family/friendly activities; there is something to do for everyone. They have kayak tours, paddle board rentals, snorkel gear, canoe tours, river tubing and scuba tours. For scuba tours you do have to prove your diving certification.
We certainly would not recommend free diving or scuba diving the caves if you are not trained or experienced. Some fatalities have happened due to lack of training.
Our three favorite free diving spots was Devils Ear, Devils Eye and Devils Spring. The visibility was endless. We have never explored water so clear and pure!
1. If you are planning a day trip to Ginnie Springs make sure to pack your cooler full of beverages, a good lunch, and snacks to enjoy at the many picnic sites available on property.
2. If you are visiting during the winter months, it will be chilly! Be sure to bring a wet suit (if you own one) along with lots of towels and warm clothes to change into. Hot showers are also available.
3. Pack an underwater camera ;-)
4. Arrive at 10:00AM or earlier to beat the crowds and explore the springs peacefully.
5. If you don't have your own gear (snorkel, fins, paddle board etc.) and looking to rent from Ginnie Springs welcome center, definitely visit their website to check out pricing for rentals before you go. This way, you have a clear understanding of how much money you will be spending on the day.
6. Bring your own inflatable tube or purchase one before your visit and float the entire river free of charge. That way, You wont have to rent a tube on your visit, which will save you a few dollars and you can enjoy it at your own leisure.
7. No pets allowed. Chance & Summer had to skip this trip. But, we completely get it!
GINNIE SPRINGS LOCATION:
7300 Ginnie Springs Road, High Springs, FL 32643
PRICE: General Admission to enter Ginnie Springs was $15 per adult this was their off season price on weekends. For in-season pricing, please contact them to confirm.
There is also various pricing for scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding and tube rentals. If you have your own equipment or watercraft there is no additional fee charged, other than your entry fee.
OPENING TIMES: Times change seasonally and days of the week. However, if you are staying at the camp ground Ginnie Springs is open to you 24/7 throughout your stay. During off-season the park closes between 6pm-8-pm depending on sunset.
For more information on Ginnie Springs checkout their website.
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DOWNLOAD THIS WEEKS ACTIVITY PACK
This weeks kids activity pack was created around our adventure to Ginnie Springs.
Happy adventures from us to you! ~ Gemma, Daniel, Chance and Summer.
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