~ Welcome to the Loyal T Blog ~

Your trusted guide to the best experiences in Volusia County!
✨ Tried • Tested • Loved ✨
Every activity you’ll find here has been experienced firsthand and personally recommended by our team—because we believe it’s truly worth your time.

Fresh Water Springs

Large, old oak tree with white picket fence around the base, Spanish moss hanging from branches.

💦 Blue Spring State Park


📍 2100 W. French Ave., Orange City, FL 32763
📞 (386) 775-3663 • 🌐 floridastateparks.org
⏰ Daily 8 AM – Sunset
💲 $6 per vehicle • $4 single • $2 walk/bike


Crystal-clear 72 °F waters and the largest spring on the St. Johns River. Winter brings hundreds of manatees, while summer is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and picnics.


Why We Love It:
Kayak with manatees, turtles, gators, and fish in clear water. Swim in a designated spring run, stroll the long boardwalk, take photos with manatee statues, and enjoy a playground plus tours and guided walks.

Large, old oak tree with white picket fence around the base, Spanish moss hanging from branches.

💦 De Leon Springs State Park


📍 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd., De Leon Springs, FL 32130
📞 (386) 985-4212
🌐 floridastateparks.org
⏰ Daily 8 AM – Sunset
💲 $6 per vehicle (2–8 people) • $4 single • $2 walk/bike


A 72 °F spring with a roped-off swim area that’s kept free of wildlife—safe for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The park also features boat rentals, a historic mill with a pancake house, and scenic forest trails.


Why We Love It:

Swim, snorkel, or paddle in cool spring water. Enjoy guided eco-history boat tours, explore old-growth forests via easy trails, and fuel up at the famous Sugar Mill Restaurant

Large, old oak tree with white picket fence around the base, Spanish moss hanging from branches.

💦 Wekiwa Springs State Park


📍 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
📞 (407) 553‑4383
🌐 floridastateparks.org
⏰ Daily 8 AM – Sunset
💲 $6 per vehicle


 Crystal-clear springs feed into the wild Wekiva River. Swim, kayak, bike, hike, or picnic—just minutes from Orlando. Canoes and kayaks available on-site, plus miles of trails and a nature center.


Why We Love It:
Perfect for a full-day escape: swim in cool water, paddle the river, stretch beneath towering oaks, and unwind on shady picnic spots. Ideal for families and friends who want both adventure and downtime.

Large, old oak tree with white picket fence around the base, Spanish moss hanging from branches.

💦 Alexander Springs


📍 49525 County Road 445, Altoona, FL 32702
📞 Managed by Ocala National Forest
🌐 fs.usda.gov
⏰ Daily 8 AM – Dusk
 💲💲💲 ~$13 plus tax per person / not per vehicle


A 72 °F huge spring with crystal-clear water, a swim area up to 27 ft deep, and small caverns perfect for snorkeling and scuba. Wildlife share the water—fish, turtles, and even the occasional gator. Trails (no biking), picnic tables, restrooms, and camping are available.


Why We Love It:
 The best snorkeling spring—underwater photos, colorful fish, and a cavern dive feel. You can stand in most areas, but the reefs and deep sections make it an unforgettable experience.