Rainbow Springs State Park is a beautiful campground that is located right on the river. Florida’s Rainbow Springs State Park is fully equipped with water and electricity at all camping sites and have sewer hook-ups. Park amenities include a convenience store, showers, bathrooms, a laundry room, recreation hall and a public pool. There is also a playground for families with children. Guests that own pets are welcome to include them on their camping trip, excluding particular parts of the park.
Rainbow Springs State Park is a gorgeous family get-away, known for its largemouth bass and other water sports. Guests of the park can enjoy camping right on the river and renting canoe equipment, kayaking equipment and swimming in the beautiful springs.
Rainbow Springs takes camping reservations up to 11 months in advance and can be made online or over the phone. ReserveAmerica is a popular booking site; phone reservations are booked through (800)326-3521.
What Can You Expect?
1. Canoe and Kayak Experiences — the Rainbow River is 5.6 miles long and starts within Rainbow Springs State Park, flowing into the Withlacoochee River. The Rainbow River is a beautiful sight; it is a flowing river, drifting guests downstream for a relaxing experience diving, snorkeling or tubing. Boat access is limited but many boaters launch at KP Hole Park and head up the river. Canoes and Kayaks are a popular mode of transportation on the river; before camping, review camp rules that apply directing to the Rainbow River waterways.
2. Gardens/Hiking and Trails — the headsprings at Rainbow River were once a private venue; the gardens and accompanying waterfalls are cultural treasures of the springs. Gardens have been remodeled while still maintaining their historical relevance to the River; azalea blooms are easily seen throughout the area in spring. Throughout the park, guests can walk through the gardens and witness the natural beauty within. There are benches scattered about to offer rest and walkways that enhance the hiking experience. There is a popular area of the gardens and trails where butterflies and hummingbirds naturally make their presence in numbers.
3. Snorkeling, Swimming and Tubing — water sports like snorkeling, diving, swimming and tubing are among the most favorite guests experiences at Rainbow River State Park. Dive flags are required when snorkeling and diving in the headsprings, beyond the marked swimming area. There are ranger-guided snorkeling tours to enjoy during the summer at the springs, opening up new and exciting experiences for guests. The water of the river stays at a comfortable 72 degrees throughout the year; lifeguards may or may not be on duty, depending on the time of year. One of the best experiences on the water involves tubing down the river. It works on a loop system, taking about 2 hours to completely drift downstream. There are tube rentals and a shuttle service that will take you to the start of the loop; there is also a 4 hour tour for those insatiable tubers looking for a longer experience on the water, starting at KP Hole.
4. Picnicking, Family and Wildlife — there are easily accessible picnic tables, grills and pavilions that are set up for guest experience, heading down into the headsprings. Rainbow River State Park offers services that require pavilion reservations, including wedding receptions, family reunions and other related large party events. The family experience is heightened by the natural appearances of wildlife and the opportunity to bring pets along on camping adventures. Well-behaved dogs are allowed in the park, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are welcome to walk the trails with their owners and sight-see, but are forbidden from entering the waterways at any time.
There has never been a better time to visit Florida’s Rainbow Springs State Park! The Rainbow River is a beautiful and completely natural sight, offering guests a relaxing and refreshing experience on the water.