Shallow Poe Springs, which has steps leading all the way down to the bright blue water, is perfect for small children. It's one of the least crowded springs in the area – depending on the time of year, you could find yourself in blissful isolation. From High Springs, follow CR-340 west for 2 miles to reach the park.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Ginnie Springs

2.77 MILES

Of the two springs in High Springs, Ginnie Springs is a little older and more developed than Poe Springs, with a handful of campsites ($22) on hand and…

2. Ichetucknee Springs State Park

11.57 MILES

Relax in a giant inner tube and float through gin-clear waters at this popular park, plopped on the lazy, spring-fed Ichetucknee River.

4. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

20.13 MILES

Central Florida's lush native plants – azaleas, rare double-crowned cabbage palms, southern magnolias – are on proud display at this highly rated 62-acre…

5. Samuel P Harn Museum of Art

21.26 MILES

Peer in at ancient Native American sculptures and contemporary paintings at this excellent art gallery on the University of Florida campus. Also open on…

6. Bat House & Bat Barn

21.27 MILES

Across from Gainesville's little Lake Alice, adjacent to a student garden, stands what appears to be two oversized birdhouses. However, these stilted gray…

7. Florida Museum of Natural History

21.28 MILES

The highlight of this excellent natural-history museum is the expansive Butterfly Rainforest (adult/child $13/6). Hundreds of butterflies from 55 to 65…

8. University of Florida

22.38 MILES

The city is dominated by the UF campus, the second largest in the country. Pop in to the Welcome Center for tips on where best to wander around to check…