Rainbow Springs, Dunnellon, FL 34432

## Overview Rainbow Springs is one of Florida's largest natural springs, located near the town of Dunnellon in Marion County. The spring is the headwaters of the Rainbow River, a crystal-clear waterway that gives the spring its name. Rainbow Springs is a first-magnitude spring, meaning it discharges more than 600 million gallons of water per day — making it one of the most voluminous springs in the entire state. The spring sits within **Rainbow Springs State Park**, a beloved destination that has drawn visitors for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around Rainbow Springs has been inhabited for at least 10,000 years, with Native American peoples utilizing the spring long before European contact. In the mid-20th century, the site operated as a private attraction and theme park before eventually being acquired by the State of Florida and reopened as a state park in 1990. Today, it is one of the most popular natural spring parks in Florida. The water at Rainbow Springs emerges from multiple vents in a large, bowl-shaped basin, creating a stunning turquoise pool. The spring water is naturally filtered through the limestone of the Floridan Aquifer, and the flow maintains a relatively constant temperature of around 72°F (22°C) year-round. The water has historically been regarded as exceptionally clean and clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. ## Directions 1. From **Dunnellon, FL**, head southwest on **US-41 South**. 2. Turn right onto **SW 81st Place Road**. 3. Follow SW 81st Place Road to the entrance of **Rainbow Springs State Park** at **19198 SW 81st Place Road, Dunnellon, FL 34432**. 4. The spring headsprings area is accessible from within the park. Follow park signage to the main spring basin. 5. **GPS coordinates:** 29.10225, -82.43764 — enter these into your navigation app for precise routing. *Note: Rainbow Springs State Park charges a per-vehicle entrance fee. Check the Florida State Parks website for current hours and admission prices before your visit.* ## What to Expect Rainbow Springs State Park offers a well-maintained and family-friendly environment. The headsprings area features a large, deep swimming area fed directly by the spring vents, surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation, towering oaks, and manicured gardens. The park includes paved walkways, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and a concession area, making it an excellent destination for visitors of all ages. The spring basin is a popular swimming and snorkeling spot, especially during the warmer months (the designated swimming area at the headsprings is typically open from mid-March through early September). The constant 72°F water temperature makes it refreshingly cool on hot Florida days. Tubing and kayaking are available along the Rainbow River downstream from the headsprings, with a separate tubing entrance located on the river. The park also features several man-made waterfalls, nature trails, and a butterfly garden. Wildlife sightings are common — visitors frequently spot turtles, fish, wading birds, and occasionally manatees in the river during cooler months. Rainbow Springs is a peaceful and scenic escape, ideal for spending quality time with friends and family. Whether you're swimming in the headsprings, paddling the river, or simply strolling the garden paths, it's one of Florida's most rewarding natural spring experiences.