De Leon Springs State Park, De Leon Springs, Florida

## Overview De Leon Springs State Park is a beloved natural spring destination in Volusia County, Florida, centered around a large spring pool that has drawn visitors for thousands of years. The park's namesake, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, is legendarily associated with the search for the Fountain of Youth, and the springs here have long carried that romantic association — in fact, one of the smaller springs within the park is informally known as the "Fountain of Youth." The main spring, Spring Garden Spring, is a second-magnitude spring that discharges millions of gallons of water daily into Spring Garden Run, which flows into Lake Woodruff. The spring pool maintains a near-constant temperature of approximately 72°F (22°C) year-round, making it a refreshing swimming destination in summer and a surprisingly warm dip in winter. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have used these springs for at least 6,000 years. The site has served as a gathering place for Native Americans, a Spanish mission, a sugar plantation (the ruins of the Old Spanish Sugar Mill are still on the grounds and now house a famous pancake restaurant), and eventually a tourist attraction before becoming a Florida State Park in 1982. The park features several spring outlets of varying sizes, and visitors can harvest spring water free of charge — just bring your own containers. It is worth noting that the spring water here has not been officially tested or certified for purity, so consumption is at your own risk. Historically, the springs have been used as a drinking water source by indigenous peoples and early settlers, and many visitors have reported the water tastes clean and refreshing, but no guarantees of potability can be made. ## Directions 1. From the town of De Leon Springs, Florida, head **north on US Highway 17**. 2. Turn **left (west) onto Ponce De Leon Boulevard**. 3. Continue for approximately **half a mile** until you reach the entrance to De Leon Springs State Park on your left. 4. The park entrance is located at **601 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, De Leon Springs, FL 32130**. 5. Follow the park road to the parking area. The main spring pool and smaller spring outlets are a short walk from the parking lot. **GPS Coordinates for the spring area:** 29.1325, -81.3612 ## What to Expect De Leon Springs State Park is a well-developed state park with ample parking, restrooms, and paved walkways leading to the spring pool. The main spring pool is a large, crystal-clear swimming area surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation, towering cypress trees, and abundant wildlife — keep an eye out for turtles, manatees (in cooler months), and a variety of wading birds. Beyond the main spring, the park contains several smaller spring outlets scattered throughout the grounds, including the so-called Fountain of Youth. Visitors looking to collect spring water should bring their own containers, as none are provided on-site. The park is a popular destination and can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and during the summer months. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. The park charges a standard Florida State Park entrance fee (per vehicle), and hours are typically **8:00 AM to sundown daily** — it is advisable to confirm current hours and fees with the park before your visit, as they can change seasonally. Other activities within the park include kayaking and canoeing along Spring Garden Run, hiking nature trails, and visiting the Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill & Griddle House, where you can cook your own pancakes on griddles built into the tables — a unique and beloved tradition. Boat tours of Lake Woodruff and the surrounding waterways are also available seasonally. Whether you come to swim in the constant 72°F waters, fill up containers with spring water, explore the rich history, or simply enjoy a pancake breakfast like no other, De Leon Springs State Park offers a memorable Florida springs experience.