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.
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History. Rainbow Springs was known as Wekiwa Creek by the Seminole Indians. It was known as Blue Spring until the 1930s, when the site was developed as a tourist attraction and the promoter sought a more distinctive name (there are several other springs in Florida named Wekiwa and Blue).
Rainbow Springs State Park is Florida's fourth largest spring churning out over 450 million gallons of water per day. The park is filled with history and there is evidence that the springs have been used by people for 10 000 years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The river supports abundant wildlife, including otters, alligators, many species of turtles and fish, and every variety of water bird—waders, divers and dabblers. Osprey, hawks and swallowtail kites soar along the river corridor while smaller birds and animals hide in the lush vegetation.
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.
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.
Rainbow Springs State Park is a Florida state park located on U.S. 41, 3 miles (5 km) north of Dunnellon, Florida. It comprises 1,459.07 acres (5.9046 km2) upland (which includes around 100 acres (0.40 km2) of wetlands) and 12.83 acres (51,900 m2) submerged.
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.
The Following is Prohibited on the RiverPossession of alcoholic beverages. Possession of food and beverages in disposable containers. Possession of disposable items such as paper sacks, boxes, breakable plastic utensils, etc. Possession of Tubes over 60 Inches in diameter.
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.
Rainbow Springs State Park... serene, peaceful, beauty, blue/green water, azaleas, trees with Spanish moss swaying in the breeze from the branches, water falls, Florida blue sky and warm weather, picture ops...all of this for a small entrance fee of $2.00...