Rainbow Springs State Park

Discover the natural wonders and exciting adventures awaiting you at Rainbow Springs State Park.

Visiting Information
Top Activities

Spanning 1,000 acres, Rainbow Springs State Park features three mesmerizing waterfalls and crystal-clear sapphire-blue waters. Ranking as the fourth-largest first magnitude spring in the state, Rainbow Springs pumps a staggering 65 million gallons of water daily, creating an aquatic wonderland that has captivated visitors for thousands of years. The park has plenty of fun activities including birding, camping, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Dive into this guide for all the essential information to plan an unforgettable day outdoors amidst the timeless beauty of Rainbow Springs State Park.

Visiting Information

Headspring Entrance

  • Admission Fee: $2.00 per person
  • Hours: 8:00am – Sunset, 365 days a year
  • Location: 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432
  • Parking: Free, but please note that the lot fills up very quickly on the weekends and holidays. If the lot is full, the park will close to all visitors.
  • Kayak/SUP Rental Fee: 1 Hour - $19, All Day - $56
  • Tandem/Canoes Rental Fee: 1 Hour - $26, All Day - $67

Tube Rentals & Tram

  • Admission Fee: $24 per person + $2 State Fee (good for one, 2 hour float down the river)
  • Hours:
    • Memorial Day – Labor Day: Monday - Sunday 8:00am – 4:00pm
    • First Saturday in April – Memorial Day: Weekends Only 8:00am – 4:00pm
    • Labor Day – First Two Weekends of October: Weekends Only 8:00am – 4:00pm (Please call to confirm opening, facility may close early due to weather.)
    • Mid-October – March: Closed
    • Note: The last tram leaves at 4:30pm every day.
  • Location: 10830 SW 180th Ave Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432

Park Amenities & Map

Rainbow Springs State Park is equipped with a variety of amenities to enhance your visit. Be sure to download the Park Map before your visit. The park offers:

  • Campsites
  • Concession stand
  • Canoe & kayak launch
  • Interpretive Exhibit
  • Pavilions
  • Restrooms
  • Shower station
  • Uncovered picnic tables and grills
  • Visitor Center

Top Activities

Birding

Grab your binoculars and camera for an immersive birding experience at Rainbow Springs State Park. Whether you're hiking, paddling, or peacefully floating down the river, you’re likely to spot some magnificent birds.

Camping

Elevate your outdoor getaway at Rainbow Springs Campground with 60 campsites designed to accommodate both RVers and tent campers. The campground amenities include a campground store, showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. With easy access to the river from the campground, you can seamlessly enjoy activities like fishing, swimming, and paddling. Campsites are available by reservation only.

A woman kayaking through the lush greenery of Rainbow River.

Canoeing, Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Explore the serene beauty of the Rainbow River with canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). As you paddle along the river, admire breathtaking scenery while keeping an eye out for birds, river otters, fish, and other wildlife.

Hiking

Journey through time on the paved Historic Attraction Trail, then follow the Phosphate Loop Trail and the Sandhill Trail to delve deeper into the natural wonders of Rainbow Springs State Park. Don’t miss the captivating lookout points along your hike!

Picnicking

Savor the outdoors with a picnic. Whether you pack your own food or order from the park’s concession stand, there are plenty of options to create a delightful al fresco dining experience. Unwind at the uncovered picnic tables and grills or bring your own chairs, tables, and shade canopies.

Snorkeling

Put on your goggles and snorkeling gear to uncover the underwater treasures of Rainbow Springs State Park. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and witness a diverse variety of fish, turtles, and a vibrant tapestry of plants.

Three children swim under the crystal clear waters of Rainbow Springs.

Swimming

Take a dip in the park's natural swimming area, where the water temperature averages a comfortable 72 degrees year-round. With depths ranging from 10 to 18 feet, the pristine waters provide an invigorating and rejuvenating escape for a leisurely swim in a beautiful setting.

Tubing

Float downstream at Rainbow Springs State Park for a blissful tubing experience, where the gentle currents guide you on a leisurely two-hour journey. As you drift along the water, admire the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the cool and refreshing water. Note: Tubing is not allowed within the Headsprings area of the park.

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