The first magnitude spring system that forms the Rainbow River has an average discharge rate of 763 cubic feet per second (cfs), or 493 million gallons per day (mgd) and is one of 33 first magnitude spring systems in the State.
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The Rainbow Springs run is one of the largest spring runs in the world. It averages a discharge of more than 400 million gallons of water per day.
Canoeing/Kayaking the Rainbow RiverSo Rainbow Springs (the headspring) is a first magnitude spring (the 4th largest in Florida), pumping out approximately 400 -600 million gallons of beautiful spring water a day.
The tourist attraction has been forced to close its doors as high maintenance costs and an uncertain future meant it was not financially viable, according to Ngai Tahu Holdings chief operating officer Craig Ellison.
The Withlacoochee River ultimately discharges into the Gulf of Mexico on the border of Citrus and Levy counties. Rainbow Springs has the fourth largest flow of all Florida's springs and provides fresh water to the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers.
History of Rainbow SpringsThese falls are human-made, and telling their story can reveal how the land around Rainbow Springs was used and shaped by people.
Rainbow Springs State Park's refreshing cool waters of the headsprings are a perfect place to go for a swim or snorkel. You can also tube or kayak down the gentle spring run that is known as Rainbow Springs River. Besides the water activities, there are also shady gardens laced with azaleas, magnolias, and oaks.
Welcome to Rainbow Springs State ParkWhen swimmers take their first dip in the sapphire-blue waters of Rainbow Springs, they become characters in a story that stretches back over 10,000 years, when humans first visited this place.
Tubing the Rainbow River is a wonderful experience but is not allowed within the headsprings area of the park. Instead, visit our tubing entrance located on S.W. 180th Avenue Road, Dunnellon.
The most significant natural feature is the first-magnitude headspring basin which produces between 400 - 600 million gallons (1.5 to 2.3 million m?) of fresh water per day, forming the Rainbow River. The looking-glass waters of Rainbow Springs come from several vents, not one large bubbling spring.
Before the building of the attraction, the Rainbow River was known at different times as Wekiwa Creek or Blue Run. 'Rainbow River' seemed more marketable and the names of the river and springs were changed to the names they bear today.
During the five-year period, 37 different species of fish were collected from the Rainbow River System. The study helps biologists tell how any impact, whether natural or man-made, is affecting the spring's ecosystem and ecology.
On average, the Rainbow River is less than 10 feet deep, although there are places where it drops 25 feet. Close to the banks, it's shallow enough to stand. Look out for big branches to jump from and a rope swing or two.
We Have Delicious Food Options Available!We take pride in serving delicious food right in the park. From Texas-style pretzels spritzed with kosher salt to tortilla chips smothered in gooey cheese (the perfect treat to enjoy while walking), our Rainbow Snacks make for a perfect appetizer or shared plate.
The land around the headwaters of the springs remained privately owned until 1990, when the State of Florida acquired the springs and saved them from development. Much of the work to open Rainbow Springs State Park was done by volunteers from the community.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Rainbow Springs State Park. They must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times, and they are not allowed to enter the water, including headsprings, swim areas, river and ponds. Pet waste bags are provided in order to keep the park beautiful and safe for everyone. See our Pet Policy.