Wekiwa Springs State Park - map, photos and other informations

Wekiwa Springs State Park is an idyllic nature retreat located within the Wekiva River Basin near Apopka, Florida. This stunning park covers 7,000 acres and is part of a larger system of state parks that line the Wekiva River and its connecting tributaries. Visitors can take advantage of the many recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and camping, among others.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Florida black bears, bobcats, gopher tortoises, and alligators, making wildlife viewing a popular activity here. There are also a number of endangered plants, including cypress and flatwoods. Birdwatchers can enjoy the wide variety of birds in the area, from black-throated blue warblers to barred owls and limpkins. The park also provides diverse opportunities for aquatic recreation and exploration, including exploring the Wekiva Spring, which runs out of the park.

Wekiva Springs State Park features many amenities, such as picnic tables, pavilions, grills, and restrooms. The park also has multiple campgrounds that offer campsites for tents, motor homes, and cabins. Primitive camping sites are also available for those who are more adventurous and want to immerse in the nature surrounding the park.

Wekiva Springs State Park was established in 1976, 11 years after the Florida State Park system was formed. The property was previously owned by the Wekiva Mining Company, which extracted phosphate and limestone from Wekiwa Springs and surrounding lands until it was closed in 1965. The state park preserves the area’s natural beauty and historical mining operations, which have been preserved in the park’s interpretive trails, showcases, and archaeology sites.

Wekiwa Springs State Park provides a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature, and explore the park’s diverse ecology. This park is a true retreat into Florida’s wild side and invites visitors to appreciate a bit of its old-world charm and natural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Wekiwa Springs State Park