A body of water surrounded by trees.

Who is this for?

Anyone near Lake City, Florida, looking for fun things to do in the area.

 

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There’s something special about stepping into water so clear that you can see every detail on the bottom. From every colorful pebble to every flick of a fish’s fin, looking through this surface is like looking through a kaleidoscope. Sound up your alley? If so, then you’ll love Ginnie Springs. This series of seven freshwater springs pours into the Santa Fe River, while maintaining a warm and comfortable 72 degrees Fahrenheit, no matter the time of year.


Heading to Florida in the humid summer? The springs are a perfect place to cool off. Want to go during the cooler months? It’ll warm you right up! Regardless, you’ll end up staying longer than planned because once you’re in that water, you’ll never want to leave. Top it all off with a stay at Vista Verde Farm Retreat, your go-to farm retreat in Lake City, FL.

adventure is calling: ginnie springs

A group of people are floating down a river on rafts

A Floating Paradise

Floating down Ginnie Springs is a classic Florida experience. You can rent a tube, or bring your own, and let the current carry you along the Santa Fe River. Sit back and kick your feet up as you lazily float for about an hour, all the while enjoying beautiful views. Some choose to go solo, others bring a crew and a floating cooler along the springs. Either way, you’re not in a rush—and that’s the point.


Enjoy some peace and quiet, and remind yourself that you don’t need a screen or a schedule to have a good time.

Exploring the Waters

If tubing isn’t your thing, or you forgot to bring one, no worries! The springs are perfect for swimming and are one of the best places to snorkel in Florida. One of the many perks of the water being as clear as it is, is that you can see the bottom year-round! Watch as small fish dart around and light filters through the water, creating the rare feeling of being alert and relaxed at the same time.


Bring your goggles and a snorkel if you’re curious what is below. But honestly, just floating face-up in the middle of the springs while the current moves you along—that’s enough. 

A scuba diver is swimming through a cave in the ocean.

The underwater cave system is a serious draw when visiting Ginnie Springs. The site is popular amongst the diving community, and if you have a scuba certification, you’ll adore traveling through miles of submerged tunnels and chambers. Test your skills and experience as you navigate, exploring all that there is under the water.


Even if you’re not diving, it’s thrilling to watch divers disappear below the great blue depths, and ponder what it’s like down below.

Diving Into the Depths

Things You Need To Know

Here are a few things to make your trip easy-peasy:

  • Arrive Early: The springs tend to get busier midday, so for a more relaxing and mellow time, head out earlier.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed, but it has to be in plastic bags or containers. You can’t bring glass or cans. Got to keep the springs safe for the critters!
  • Water Shoes: Rocks can get rather sharp on the bottom, and rather than cutting your feet open, we suggest wearing water shoes instead.
  • Keep It Clean: Take out what you bring in, and keep the waters clean every time you visit.
  • Admissions: There is an admission fee to enter the springs, so be sure to check  out  their website  for current rates  and rental information.


Make it a Day to Remember

Time slows down at Ginnie Springs, FL, because visitors quickly forget their cares and silence their notifications when they visit. With seven springs in total, take some time exploring each of them, as they all slightly differ from one another. Bring a floatable picnic along with you, or stop along the shore and enjoy a nice mid-day break.


Make sure you bring your camera, because when the light peaks through the cypress trees and hits the water, it's perfect.

A wooden bridge leading to a lake in the middle of a forest.

Stay at Vista Verde Farm Retreat

After you float, swim, or snorkel your way through the springs, you’ll need a place to wind down. Our property, Vista Verde Farm Retreat, is right down the road in Lake City. Our countryside getaway has cozy cabins that you can rent individually, or as a whole! Interested in bringing your family hauler? Our RV sites provide the perfect basecamp for your next Florida adventure.


Oh, did we mention we have a farm tour? Walk through our charming working farm and visit all of our hoofed pals, you won’t regret it.  Recharge in comfort when you stay at Vista Verde Farm Retreat — and experience what a true Florida vacation is all about.