DeLeon Springs State Park in Florida

If you are looking for a great place to spend a day with the kids, check out DeLeon Springs Park, located in DeLeon Springs, which is in Volusia County. It's a beautiful place that has plenty to do. The whole family will have a great time!<

DeLeon Springs is located at 601 Ponce DeLeon Blvd. You will find plenty of area to roam, let the kids play, and have a picnic. They have a 50-minute eco boat ride, a short nature walk back to a 500-year-old tree, and swimming in the spring. There is also a longer trail available for those who prefer a more challenging hike. The spring is enclosed, kind of like a swimming pool, so you don't have to worry as much about any alligators, either! The spring remains a constant 72 degrees. When you first get in, it's cold, but once you go under the water completely, you are fine, and it actually feels great. Also, you will find a beautiful butterfly garden, featuring several kinds of butterflies making stops.

There is a special shallow area for the kids (see picture below). This park also offers tube rentals, kayak rentals, a little museum, covered pavilions, and plenty of shady grass areas to put your chairs and hang out. The park is also filled with gorgeous live oak trees. Be sure to check them out in the parking lot and inside the area around the spring.

While you are there, you may also want to check out the Old Spanish Mill, which is a restaurant next to the spring. The restaurant is famous for making your own pancakes, where the tables have a griddle in them, and you make the pancakes right at your table. If you want to dine inside the restaurant, please get your name on the waitlist when you first arrive. If it's a summer day, there is usually a 1-2 hour wait. You can also get take-out food from the walk-up window at the restaurant.

If you like mountain bike riding, you may want to take your bike and hit up the great trails at Chuck Lennon Park, which is right by DeLeon Springs. My husband and son go bike ride, then go to the spring to cool off. They love the trails at Chuck Lennon Park, and the two are pretty much next to each other.

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