Life’s a beach Florida spring. Sure the beach has the vast ocean, but give me a what seems to be never-ending flow of fresh water coming out from the precipice of the underworld (vents) and I’ll be a happy springer. But seriously, spring vents / springs are cool, they may seem ominous as they swirl and push water out through the sandy floor or rapidly force water out from a deep dark cave…but they are innocuous enough and wonderful to admire.
But before blindlessly venturing out to a spring, we’ve listed a few spring essentials you should bring along.
Raft
A raft is basically spring-water attire. You’ll see spring-goers sporting their latest trendy inflatable. Any raft will do, but theme is paramount.
One can go mythical and op for the unicorn float or go food-conscious and choose the donut look. But really what’s important is how comfortably it can float your you around the spring pool.
Oh! one other thing…if you have a hand-held pump for your raft, please bring it with you, as some parks don’t have air-pumps for guests to use.
Lotion
Upon visiting a Spring you’ll find a ton of trees surrounding the watering hole – very unlike the treeless beach setting! But don’t drop your sun-blocking guard. Even though the area is shrouded with a canopy of tree tops, sun will find its way to expose itself onto you.
Bring sun lotion (your own personal SPF) as it is needed, especially on those sunny days.
Things to Throw
Paddle boards, frisbees, a ball, anything that can be effortlessly lifted and chucked at somebody else is ideal to bring. You’re going to need something to do when spring-water just gets to chilly (because believe you me, it will).
Body Suit
ehh…up to you. The water will be chilly (72-74 degreess depending where you go), but during the summer you should be fine. If you are a scuba-Steve or going during the fall or winter season then ya, go for it. But if you’re an ordinary snorkler, raft floater or water-bobber then not needed at all.
Fins and Mask
If you want to get close-up to spring vents or check out the sandy foundation below the blue waters, it is advisable to bring a good mask and fins. The water is clear enough that you can explore like Dora (without the map) and discover cool stuff in water caves.
Water Shoes
All springs are different. They vary by depth, temperature, floor bottom texture, spring vents, etc. It is a good idea to bring water shoes with you, as a few springs will welcome your bare feet with a rocky bottom – water shoes help prevent embarrassing falls as you flinch from the pain of a jagged rock.
Food
You’ll most likely spend a few hours at the spring, so bring food accordingly. Pre-made sandwiches, chips, soda, and water is a good start.
