Blue Spring State Park Adventures

In 1972, Blue Spring became a State Park with the help of Jacques Cousteau after he filmed the episode called The Forgotten Mermaids. The same pristine beauty enjoyed by Florida's earliest residents still can be seen today. A self-guided boardwalk leads visitors through a lush hammock to Blue Spring.
The spring is much more than a scenic area for canoeing and swimming; it's a place that plays a vital role in the survival of one of Florida's most beleaguered residents - the manatee. An observation platform provides a view of the endangered mammals that gather at the spring during the cooler months of the year. From November through March, the manatees leave the colder waters of the St. Johns River for the safety and comfort of the 72-degree spring.
Wildlife and Vegetation School Charters- Duration is 1 hour. Minimum 15 participants, Maximum 50. Our outdoor classroom has a seat with a view reserved for students of all ages. We invite young scholars to board one of the Guest Services pontoon boats for a nature-oriented tour of the St. Johns River at Blue Spring State Park.

We will provide junior conservationists with an engaging one hour "curriculum" they will remember as a fun learning opportunity experience. Guest Services pontoon boats are equipped with life jackets, a canopy for shade, a "head" (restroom) and experienced and licensed boat captains and naturalists.Our Field Trip is designed to bring the Environmental Sciences to students in a way they can understand and see the relationships that exist in our subtropical wetland ecosystem across central and south Florida. We encourage student interaction and can easily highlight current sections of classroom study.With the sights and sounds of nature all around, we offer the perfect setting to point out and recognize birds, fish, flora and fauna. If we see it, we'll make sure your class does too.

Wildlife often spotted:

Birds: Little Blue Heron, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Anhinga, Cormorant, Turkey, Moorhens, Turkey and Black Vulture.
Reptiles: Alligators, Assorted Turtles and Snakes
Mammals: Deer, River Otters, Manatees and Racoons

Water is the dominant element in Florida, it shapes the land, vegetation, sea life, birds, and animal life in our area. All of these components connect us with the natural world and shines a light on the importance of respecting and preserving the environment. Our aim is to help inspire students to recognize the wonder of this amazing place we call home.

Call or write to us to set up your next class excursion. Available most days with a three-day notice prior to the trip ending at 10:30am. Special times may be arranged with more notice and based on availability.

Enjoy a narrated St. Johns River Nature Cruise-Come along as we welcome you aboard for a narrated adventure down the St. Johns River! The St. Johns River is rich in history and wildlife, and our friendly crew is excited to share its wonders with you. Keeping in mind that we will be traveling in the wild and sightings change greatly from day to day, common things to see on the river include wading birds, manatees, aquatic plant life, cypress forests, and alligators.
Guided Kayak Tour Blue Spring- 2.5 hour in duration. Tours depart at 9am sharp. Join one of our experienced river guides as you discover the local flora and fauna of the St. Johns River. While every trip out on the water is unique and wildlife varies from day to day, animals that are commonly seen are wading birds, manatees, and alligators. In general, these trips are great for birders, sightseers, and photographers. These small group tours (up to 10 guests per guide) allow our naturalists to provide more special attention to the guests. Participants must be 12 years of aga and older.
Self Guided Canoe Rentals
Paddleboard Rentals
Gift Locker and Canteen open daily from 9am to 3pm.

Yes

WILDLIFE AND VEGETATION SCHOOL CHARTERS

• • Price: $14/person
  • Duration: 1 Hour
  • Minimum 15 participants, Maximum 50

Our outdoor classroom has a seat with a view reserved for students of all ages. We invite young scholars to board one of the Guest Services pontoon boats for a nature-oriented tour of the St. Johns River at Blue Spring State Park.

We will provide junior conservationists with an engaging one hour “curriculum” they will remember as a fun learning opportunity experience. Guest Services pontoon boats are equipped with life jackets, a canopy for shade, a “head” (restroom) and experienced and licensed boat captains and naturalists.

Our Field Trip is designed to bring the Environmental Sciences to students in a way they can understand and see the relationships that exist in our subtropical wetland ecosystem across central and south Florida. We encourage student interaction and can easily highlight current sections of classroom study.

With the sights and sounds of nature all around, we offer the perfect setting to point out and recognize birds, fish, flora and fauna. If we see it, we’ll make sure your class does too.

Wildlife often spotted:

Birds: Little Blue Heron, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Anhinga, Cormorant, Turkey, Moorhens, Turkey and Black Vulture.
Reptiles: Alligators, Assorted Turtles and Snakes
Mammals: Deer, River Otters, Manatees and Racoons

Water is the dominant element in Florida, it shapes the land, vegetation, sea life, birds, and animal life in our area. All of these components connect us with the natural world and shines a light on the importance of respecting and preserving the environment. Our aim is to help inspire students to recognize the wonder of this amazing place we call home.

Call or write to us to set up your next class excursion. Available most days with a three-day notice prior to the trip ending at 10:30am. Special times may be arranged with more notice and based on availability.