Loading Page...

What can you bring on the Rainbow River?

Yes you can bring food and drink, Coolers are subject to search and disposable containers (such as cans, plastics, glass, plastic foam or paper) are not permitted on the rainbow river.? Please remember, alcohol is not permitted. All other food and drink items must be in non-disposable containers.



The Rainbow River in Florida is a protected Outstanding Florida Waterway, and its rules are strictly enforced to preserve its crystal-clear clarity. You cannot bring any "disposables" on the river; this includes plastic water bottles, soda cans, plastic bags, or paper wrappers. If you want to bring food or drinks, they must be in reusable containers, such as a thermos, a reusable silicone bag, or a Tupperware-style container. Alcohol is strictly prohibited on the river, and law enforcement frequently patrols to check coolers. Regarding equipment, you can bring tubes (no larger than 60 inches), kayaks, or canoes. If you are tubing, you should bring a tether to stay with your group, but avoid long ropes that can tangle in the vegetation. Because the river is spring-fed and stays at a constant 72°F, many visitors also bring snorkeling gear to view the underwater grass beds and diverse fish populations, provided they adhere to the "no-touch" policy regarding the riverbed and wildlife.

People Also Ask

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Rainbow Springs is a State Park that has a $2 entry fee and offers a two hour float rental for $26. Personal tubes and coolers are allowed and coolers are available for rent on site also.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

The upstream paddle towards Rainbow Springs State Park takes approximately 1.5 hours and is extremely beautiful. If you'd like to launch your own paddleboard or kayak, you will only be charged the $5 daily entrance fee.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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

MORE DETAILS

Tip: Rainbow Springs State Park has very high visitation on weekends and holidays, and will close once it reaches capacity. If you are planning a visit during these times be sure to arrive right at 8AM to get in.

MORE DETAILS