Description
A designated Outstanding Florida Spring, De Leon Springs is a second-magnitude spring with a semicircular pool about 190 feet from north to south and 170 feet from east to west. Spring flow is from a cavern and chimney opening in the north-central part of the pool. A low boil is visible at the surface above the opening in the limestone rock. The pool is enclosed by a low concrete wall and bordered by a concrete walk. A large bathhouse and snack bar are on the north side of the pool. The spring water flows through a concrete weir on the west wall of the pool, then down a 3-foot drop into a wide spring run. The broad but short run carries flow westward through a chain of three lakes (Spring Garden, Woodruff, and Dexter), then to the St. Johns River.
Recreational activities and public access
De Leon Springs is the centerpiece of De Leon Springs State Park, a 625-acre park operated by the state of Florida. Swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, nature walks and camping are just a few of the attractions at this historic site. Facilities include bathhouse, refreshment stand, pancake house and souvenir shop. The park is located on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The butterfly garden has about 500 plants for the benefit of resident and migrating butterflies and hummingbirds. State park fees apply.
Directions
De Leon Springs is located at the corner of Ponce de Leon and Burt Parks Road, west of U.S. 17.
Take U.S. 17 North from DeLand for approximately six miles, following the state park signs. Turn left onto Ponce De Leon Boulevard and travel approximately one mile to the entrance to De Leon Springs State Park.