Dip into the 72˚F (22˚C) crystalline waters of the beautiful eponymous spring. You can scuba dive (bring your gear and register at the office) at the springhead, which gushes 117 million gallons of water per day, or canoe or kayak into the Suwannee ($20/$40 half/full day) to spot birds or (in winter) the spring's namesake manatees. On dry land – a spongy combo of sand and limestone shaded by tupelo, cypress and pine – there's the 8.5-mile-long North End hiking/cycling trail.
The wheelchair-accessible raised timber boardwalk that traces the narrow spring down to the Suwannee River as it flows to the gulf and out to sea is a highlight (and a good place from which to spot manatees). Ranger programs include guided canoe journeys, moonlight hikes, nature walks and occasional covered-wagon rides. Contact the park office for details. Snacks and food are served from a walk-up bar and grill until 4pm. RV and tent campsites are available at $20 per night.
Manatees are not present in the swimming area of Manatee Springs State Park, though it's worth noting that conservationists advise against touching or crowding them, arguing that this causes the animals undue stress.
