De Leon Springs Swimming Site
About
Pouring out 19 million gallons of aquifer-pure water daily, the spring is the size of a large community pool encircled in concrete and resting amid an open area circled by lovely old semitropical hardwoods. As the park's centerpiece, the spring has always been an attraction beginning as a resort in the 1880s. The area is very popular with residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. A ramped entrance makes access into the year-round 72-degree water comfortable and easy. The park does permit open-water diving within the encased concrete area. The concrete wall surrounding the spring separates the swimming area from Spring Garden, a wide stream that pours into Lake Woodruff. Swimming is not permitted in the run; however, anglers enjoy catching pan fish and bass. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required. Access to Spring Garden is via a boat launch just beyond the spring complex. The park even offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rental. Upon entering the park, bear left (south) to reach the massive parking complex that provides access to all the facilities except the visitor center and boat launch, which are located on the north side of the park. The visitor center is open from 10:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. weekends and holidays. Contact the park office prior to planning a special trip. Located within footsteps of the swimming area are picnic tables, picnic pavilions, sand volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and children's play areas. A well-known and popular feature of the park is The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant. You actually prepare and cook your own pancakes at your table, which is equipped with a griddle. Directions to Se Deon State Park: Take US Hwy 17 North from Deland for approximately six miles, following the State Park signs. Turn left onto Ponce DeLeon Blvd and you will travel approximately one mile to the entrance to DeLeon Springs State Park.
