6 Lazy Rivers In Florida You Can Float Down For Super Cheap This Summer
Summers in Florida may be scorching, but it’s easy to escape the heat when you have so many gorgeous swimming holes and waterways to get away to. Lazy rivers are some of the best, with the added bonus of being “lazy” in a socially acceptable way. If you’re looking for a place to cool down, relax, and not break the bank this summer, then definitely head out to these Florida lazy rivers that you can float down for super cheap.
The Sunshine State has no shortage of amazing flora and fauna to explore. Lucky for the nature lovers who aren’t too keen on trekking through the woods for hidden gems, most of these spots have been pretty well modernized to accommodate even those of your friends who don’t share your love of all things wild.
Even if you’re low on funds, that’s no reason not to afford yourself a blast this summer.
While you can cut costs by bringing your own tube to some of these spots, others require you to rent equipment on-site for a small fee. Some places even offer an extra tube to fit a cooler in so you can sip on your favorite beverage and float the day away in style.
So be as lazy as you want and enjoy these Florida lazy rivers on the cheap.
Madison Blue Springs State Park
Price: $4 to $5 per vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, cyclists, and extra passengers
Address: 8300 NE State Road 6, Lee, FL
Why You Need To Go: Surrounded by scenic forest views, this 150-foot long spring-run merges with the river for an ideal floating trip.
K.P. Hole County Park
Price: $10 tube rentals including shuttle service; $7 if you bring your own tube for pre-paid shuttle service
Address: 9435 SW 190th Avenue Road, Dunnellon, FL
Why You Need To Go: Float downriver for a leisurely two hour trip in the 72-degree, crystal clear water of the Rainbow River.
Blackwater River State Park
Price: $18 for a tube day trip or $4 per vehicle admission to the park to bring and launch your own floaties.
Address: 7720 Deaton Bridge Rd, Holt, FL
Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem holds golden-red waters set against pristine white-sand beaches, which you can float down around 2 ½ hours, depending on how often you stop, for a peaceful four-mile trip.
Rock Springs Run at Kelly Park
Price: $3 per vehicle with 1 to 2 people; $5 for 3-8 people; $1 for an additional person, walk-ins, and cyclists
Address: 400 E Kelly Park Rd., Apopka, FL
Why You Need To Go: This relaxing down-stream float is a short 25-minute trip and you can even bring your own tube for free as long as it's no wider or longer than 5 feet. If you don’t have one, you can rent one at the nearby Rocks Springs Bar and Grill for just $7.
Ichetucknee Springs
Price: $6 per vehicle
Address: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, FL
Why You Need To Go: There are several different launch pads to choose from depending on how long you want your floating trip to be, but you’ll need to reserve a spot in advance on their website. Prices vary as well, but you can rent a regular tube for as little as $6.
Website
Ginnie Springs
Price: $14.02 admission with $6 tube rentals or bring your own for free
Address: 7300 Ginnie Springs Rd., High Springs, FL
Why You Need To Go: Rent a tube for the entire day at Ginnie Springs for only $6 plus a free air refill station or bring your own floaties for free. There's a spot where the spring run meets the Santa Fe River creating an otherwordly sight.
Happy floating!
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.