Tubing
To really kick back and relax, rent an inner tube and take a cool, lazy float on our natural river.
Canoeing & Kayaking
Rent a canoe or a kayak and journey out onto the gorgeous waters of one of the top recreational water sports destinations in Florida.
Canoe & Kayak Launch
Visitors may launch privately owned canoes and kayaks from the headsprings launch area; but should be prepared to port their vessel 1,800 feet from the parking area to the launch area, due to no vehicle access to the river within the park.
Swimming
The cool, clear waters of the headsprings are refreshing for swimming. The average depth in this natural swimming area runs from 5 to 18 feet, and the water temperature averages 72 degrees year round.
All inflatables, including rafts, tubes and balls are not allowed in the park for safety reasons. Swimmers may wear life preservers or use noodles.
The average depth in this natural swimming area runs from 10 to 18 feet. Please be prepared to carefully monitor your own children and non-swimmers. There is no lifeguard on duty and all swimmers do so at their own risk.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling the headsprings of the Rainbow River is a favorite activity but is only allowed in the buoyed swimming area. However, it is allowed from the campground or from boats once you are outside of the headsprings. Please be aware that state law requires dive flags for all snorkelers.
Hiking Nature Trail
Rainbow Springs State Park offers leisurely strolls through shady gardens laced with azaleas, oaks and magnolias. The walkways pass by three man-made waterfalls and a native plant garden. A nature trail winds back behind the gardens through natural oak hammock and sandhill communities. This trail offers both river and phosphate pit overlooks and is approximately 2.5 miles long from the Visitors' Center.
Geocaching
Geocaching is an outdoor game using hand-held global positioning systems (GPS) devices. It's effectively an inexpensive, interactive, high-tech treasure hunt that's a great way to learn geography.
Picnicking
Picnic tables, pavilions, and grills are available for visitor use on a first come, first serve basis.
Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the park, on all of the nature trails and along the river exist many wonderful birding opportunities. A brand new park birding list has been created.
