Blue Spring State Park

Blue Spring State Park is one of Florida's best-loved state parks, drawing wildlife lovers and water sports enthusiasts from far and wide. This beautiful park combines activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving with a touch of history, but the best part of all is that the Blue Spring State Park campground welcomes your furry friend.

Located west of Orange City, the park is home to spectacular Blue Spring, the largest spring on the St. Johns River. These crystal-clear waters boast a refreshing temperature of 72 degrees, which, in the winter months, draws hundreds of West Indian Manatees looking for more pleasant conditions. These gentle giants are a magnificent sight for any animal lover, and the springs' overlooks make it easy to watch them glide gracefully through the water.

When you need a break from watching wildlife, there's plenty more to see and do throughout the park. Swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, and fishing are all popular activities, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can hike the four-mile trail that winds its way through pine flatwoods and cypress swamp. Historic Thursby House, which dates to 1872 and sits atop an ancient Timucuan shell midden, is also within the park.

When you're ready to stay the night, the Blue Spring State Park pet-friendly campground offers 44 sites for tents and RVs. Six cabins are also available but do not permit pets.

During your stay, you'll need to make sure you keep your pet leashed and under control, and that you only take your dog into designated pet-friendly areas. As always, make sure to clean up after your pooch whenever necessary.

One other important point: don't confuse Blue Spring State Park with Lafayette Blue Springs State Park, which is located some 140 miles away near Mayo. Make sure you've selected the right campground when reserving your site, and then get ready for a pawesome camping getaway with your furry friend.