What are the rules for the Rainbow River?

Rainbow River Rules Disposable containers (such as cans, plastics, glass, plastic foam or paper) are not permitted. Items must be in reusable containers. Divers and snorkelers are required to float a "diver-down" flag. The entire Rainbow River is a designated "Idle Speed/No Wake" zone.



The Rainbow River in Florida is a protected "Outstanding Florida Waterway," and the rules are strictly enforced to preserve its crystal-clear spring-fed environment. One of the most important rules is the total ban on disposables; you cannot bring any plastic water bottles, soda cans, plastic bags, or wrappers onto the river. Everything must be in a reusable container. There is also a strict "no alcohol" policy while on the water. If you are tubing, you must enter and exit at designated points, such as the Rainbow Springs State Park or the KP Hole County Park. For those using motorized vessels, the entire river is a "no-wake" zone to prevent erosion and protect the delicate aquatic vegetation and manatees. Fishing is allowed but requires a valid Florida freshwater license, and certain areas near the headsprings are closed to all watercraft to protect the vents. These regulations ensure the river remains a pristine 72°F sanctuary for future generations of snorkelers and kayakers.

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The Following is Prohibited on the River Possession of alcoholic beverages. Possession of food and beverages in disposable containers. Possession of disposable items such as paper sacks, boxes, breakable plastic utensils, etc.

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The kayaking and swimming area is far from the parking area. You can only swim in the swimming area. If you want to swim in the river, you have to paddle at least a mile down from the headsprings before doing so.

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Hole, you cannot bring your own tube. For Rainbow Springs State Park, you can bring your own float, however, the price is the same regardless.

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Taking any type of alcohol or disposables on the Rainbow River is prohibited by law. Acceptable containers include Tupperware, Rubbermaid or a thermos. Unlawful containers include: paper sacks, boxes, plastic water bottles, aluminum cans, breakable plastic utensils, paper napkins and towels.

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WHAT TYPE OF SHOES SHOULD I WEAR? ?TENNIS SHOES, AQUA-SHOES, RIVER SANDALS with Straps or other ?secure footwear? are needed to protect your feet against sharp objects, cuts, scrapes, bruises and the rocky and often slippery river bottom while walking to and from the entry/exit points for tubing on the Guadalupe River.

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The flow of the spring is the fourth highest among all the springs in Florida. The cool, clear waters of the headsprings are incredibly refreshing place to swim. The average depth in the natural swimming area runs from 10 to 18 feet, and the water temperature averages 72 degrees year-round.

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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.

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There is a $7.00 entrance fee per person for kayaks and a $10 fee for tubes to launch from their facility(they accept cash or credit), cash is preferred to expedite the entry into the park where you will embark from.

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The most significant natural feature is the first-magnitude headspring basin which produces between 400 - 600 million gallons (1.5 to 2.3 million m³) 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.

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There is no parking fee however there is a $2.00 State Park Admission Fee per person.

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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.

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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.

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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. No matter how deep the water gets, you can always see the bottom of the river from your craft.

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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.

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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.

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The Rainbow River is located in southwest Marion County near the town of Dunnellon, approximately 20 miles southwest of Ocala.

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