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Cost • $6 per vehicle
Family Friendly
Pet Friendly
On-site Lodging

Manatee Springs

Florida

Manatee Springs State Park is located in Chiefland, Florida, and features a constant water temperature of 72 °F (23 °C). Known for its spring head, sinkholes, and underwater cave systems, it supports diving, wildlife viewing, and year-round recreation.

Manatee Springs

Manatee Springs Basic Information

Location
Florida
Coordinates
29°29′25″N, 82°58′37″W
Hours
8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year
Entry Fee
$6 per vehicle
Family Friendly
Yes
Pet Friendly
Yes
Accommodation
Available on-site

Manatee Springs Pool Information

Temperature
Constant 72 °F (23 °C)
Pool Types
Spring head, Spring run, Sinkholes (Catfish Hotel, Sue Sink, Friedman Sink)
Water Type
Not specified
Pool Depth
Spring head, Spring run, Sinkholes (Catfish Hotel, Sue Sink, Friedman Sink)
Clothing Policy
Not specified

Manatee Springs Amenities & Facilities

Parking
Available on-site
WiFi
Available
Changing Rooms
Yes
Refreshments
Available

Manatee Springs Additional Information

Best Season
Year-round
Nearest City
30 minutes from downtown
Elevation
4,500 ft

Manatee Springs Mineral Content

Not specified

What to know about Manatee Springs

What is the name and location of Manatee Springs hot spring?

The name of the hot spring is Manatee Springs State Park. The hot spring is located in Chiefland, Florida. The precise address is 11650 N.W. 115 St., Chiefland FL 32626. The geographic coordinates of Manatee Springs are 29°29′25″N latitude and 82°58′37″W longitude. The hot spring lies 6 miles west of Chiefland on SR 320, off US 19. The official directions are available at Google Maps. The park is managed by Florida State Parks and more information is accessible through its official website.

What is the temperature of Manatee Springs hot spring?

The temperature of Manatee Springs hot spring is a constant 72 °F (23 °C). The thermal water maintains this temperature year-round, providing consistent aquatic conditions for both recreational and ecological functions.

What types of pools are present at Manatee Springs hot spring?

The pool types at Manatee Springs hot spring include a spring head, a spring run, and multiple sinkholes. The sinkholes include Catfish Hotel, Sue Sink, and Friedman Sink. The spring head serves as the primary emergence point of the thermal water, while the spring run channels the flow toward the Suwannee River. Each sinkhole offers distinct depths and geological features suitable for diving and exploration.

What is the depth of the pools at Manatee Springs hot spring?

The depth of pools at Manatee Springs hot spring varies across the site. The Catfish Hotel sinkhole contains a submerged cave that extends 90 feet below the ground surface. This depth supports cave diving activities and contributes to the park’s hydrogeological complexity.

What is the access type and entry cost for Manatee Springs hot spring?

The access type for Manatee Springs hot spring is public. The entry fee is $6 per vehicle. Visitors can enter the park daily from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, including holidays, as the park operates 365 days a year.

What are the booking requirements for Manatee Springs hot spring?

The booking requirements for Manatee Springs hot spring are not specified. Visitors are encouraged to consult the official website or call the park at 352-493-6072 for current information regarding reservations or permits.

What facilities are available at Manatee Springs hot spring?

The facilities at Manatee Springs hot spring include accessible amenities, an amphitheater, a boat ramp, campfire circles, campgrounds, and a canoe/kayak launch. Additional infrastructure includes parking, picnic pavilions, a playground, restroom facilities, RV access, shower stations, a floating dock, a boardwalk, and 8 miles of off-road trails. The park supports full camping facilities for both primitive and glamping accommodations.

What types of accommodation are available at Manatee Springs hot spring?

The types of accommodation available at Manatee Springs hot spring include tent camping, primitive group camping, and glamping. These options provide varying degrees of comfort and access to natural surroundings, allowing visitors to stay overnight within the park boundaries.

What is the best season to visit Manatee Springs hot spring?

The best season to visit Manatee Springs hot spring is during fall and winter. During these months, manatees migrate into the spring run from the Suwannee River, attracted by the constant 72 °F (23 °C) water temperature. This seasonal occurrence enhances wildlife viewing opportunities.

Is Manatee Springs hot spring pet friendly and accessible?

Yes, Manatee Springs hot spring is pet friendly and accessible. The park permits pets in designated areas and provides infrastructure to accommodate visitors with mobility needs, including accessible restrooms and boardwalks.

What attractions are near Manatee Springs hot spring?

The nearby attractions to Manatee Springs hot spring include the Nature Coast State Trail, the Suwannee River, and access to the Gulf of Mexico via the Suwannee River. These geographic features expand recreational opportunities such as hiking, paddling, and wildlife observation beyond the spring itself.

How many pools are at Manatee Springs hot spring?

Manatee Springs hot spring contains at least four entry points. These include the headspring, Catfish Hotel, Sue Sink, and Friedman Sink. Each entry point offers unique hydrogeological features and access conditions for visitors.

What is the water composition and smell of Manatee Springs hot spring?

The water composition and smell intensity of Manatee Springs hot spring are not specified. Visitors should consult environmental or geological surveys for detailed chemical analysis or olfactory characteristics.

What is the clothing policy and child-friendliness of Manatee Springs hot spring?

The clothing policy and child-friendliness of Manatee Springs hot spring are not specified. Visitors should refer to official park guidelines for information on swimwear regulations and suitability for children.

Photo Gallery

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Contact Information

352-493-6072
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