Vortex Springs - Updated 2024 Guide

Ponce De Leon, Florida

The Florida Panhandle's coastline is famous for having pristine turquoise waters and powdery white sandy beaches. Among this state's aquatic beauty, one of the most beloved destinations is Vortex Springs. Within its turquoise waters lies a fascinating marine ecosystem unseen from above the surface. Schools of fish swim through crevices and caves concealed below. The rocky underwater landscapes and sandy basins provide endless opportunities for exploration.

Natural Waters

The focal point of Vortex Springs is the stunning 200-foot diameter natural spring basin filled with 68-degree crystal clear blue water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The clean and clear aquamarine waters provide visibility up to 100 feet, allowing visitors to observe the fascinating aquatic life and formations beneath the surface.

Schools of fish like bass and bream are frequently seen swimming through the springs. More elusive creatures like turtles, rays, and eels also inhabit these waters.

The pristine water quality results from the springs being fed by the Floridan Aquifer. Over 150 million gallons daily surge forth, keeping the enormous basin continuously refreshed. This flow prevents stagnation and allows the visibility to remain extraordinarily clear. The cool 68-degree water temperature stays constant year-round, providing refreshing relief from the hot Florida sun.

Important Questions, Answered

Hours: Vortex Spring Adventures is open all year from 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

However, only campers and guests staying at the lodge may enter the park 24/7. If you're a camper or a lodge guest, you can get your admission pass during the store's regular hours or at the gate if it's open after the store closes.

Address: 1517 Vortex Spring Rd, Ponce De Leon.

Phone number: (850) 836-4979

Vortex Spring water temperature: Vortex Springs always stays at a cool 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) thanks to water from the Floridan Aquifer, which keeps the temperature steady all year long.

Pet Policy: Vortex Springs enforces a strict policy that does not allow pets.

This regulation is in effect for a few reasons:

Visitor Safety: Pets can be unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar surroundings and near water. The policy ensures the safety of all guests (including their furry friends) by avoiding any potential conflicts or accidents.

Preserving Wildlife: The area surrounding Vortex Springs is home to a wide range of wildlife. Even well-behaved pets can disrupt the natural ecosystem and threaten native species.

Maintaining Cleanliness: Keeping a clean and hygienic environment for all visitors is a top priority. The no-pet policy helps prevent any issues related to pet waste or shedding.

Aquatic Activities

The unique natural features of Vortex Spring provide endless opportunities for aquatic adventure and recreation. The swimming area lets visitors float, relax, and cool off in the 68-degree spring water. Inner tubes can be rented on-site for lazily circling the basin. For the more adventurous, diving platforms are stationed around the basin's perimeter, allowing brave souls to plunge into the deep waters below.

Canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboards can be rented to explore further into the run and creek surrounding the spring. Paddling these peaceful waterways lets you connect with nature and quietly observe native wildlife. Guided Eco-tours provide another opportunity to learn about ecology and history while gliding through the waters.

The on-site dive shop provides tank and gear rentals for scuba diving throughout the spring. Certified divers can embark on self-guided adventures beneath the surface and explore deeper into the underwater caves and caverns through the cave opening, descending over 300 feet.

More about Diving

The diving at Vortex Spring stands out as one of the top attractions. The crystal clear waters allow extraordinary visibility, while the constant temperature means diving can be enjoyed year-round without a wetsuit. The entrance to the underwater cave system lies 25 feet below the surface, marked by a stone deck and handrail. Certified divers can gradually follow this passage down 130 feet to the first air chamber. The cave continues even deeper to over 300 feet for advanced technical diving. This complex cave system has amazed divers for decades.

Scuba lessons are available for those seeking to learn cave diving. Beginners can enroll in certification courses from open water diver to cave diver. The on-site pool provides a controlled environment to learn skills before venturing into open water. PADI instructors guide students through every step, ensuring proper training for safe diving. Vortex Spring provides the perfect setting to learn diving with some of the best visibility in Florida's freshwater spring.

Piano Room

The "Piano Room" at Vortex Springs is an interesting and eerie underwater destination for experienced divers. It gets its name from an old upright piano placed in the cave years ago by divers.

Here's what you need to know:

Location: The Piano Room is approximately 300 feet back into the Vortex Springs cave system, beyond the large open cavern.
Access: Reaching the Piano Room is considered a technical cave dive and is off-limits to anyone without the proper cave diving training and certification. A steel gate blocks further exploration of the deeper cave system.
The Piano: The old piano remains a curious relic, though time and the underwater environment have taken their toll.
Vortex Springs piano room
Hazards: The Piano Room is an inherently dangerous place. Poor visibility, tight confines, and the depth make it a very unforgiving environment for untrained divers.

Why the Allure?

For experienced cave divers with the appropriate training, the Piano Room represents a challenge and a unique point of interest within the Vortex Springs cave system. The eerie setting and history of the piano create a captivating underwater scene.

Important Note: Diving into the Piano Room should never be attempted by recreational divers. The dangers are significant, and there have been fatalities at this location.

Accommodation

Image courtesy of @**yourbestbeachlife**

Vortex Spring's secluded setting amongst Ocala National Forest provides a range of lodging options, from RV sites to cozy cabins. The park offers primitive campsites for tent camping under the stars and full hook-up RV sites. Shared comfort stations provide hot showers and restroom facilities.

Visitors prioritizing more comfort can choose from charming vacation rental homes. These multi-bedroom houses feature fully equipped kitchens, HDTVs, and covered porches overlooking the springs. The unique duplex-style Waterfront Inn places you right at the spring's edge, with sliding doors opening directly onto the diving deck.

More Lodging Nearby

For those seeking more luxurious lodging near Vortex Spring, there are a few good options we suggest:

The Hampton Inn & Suites Ocala is 15 miles from Vortex Spring and offers amenities like an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ocala Northwest is 14 miles from Vortex Spring in Ocala, with an outdoor pool, breakfast, and free WiFi.

History

The history of Vortex Spring dates back to prehistoric times when Native Americans used the area as a campsite and freshwater source. Artifacts found date human activity at the springs to 10,000 BC.

In the late 1800s, the spring area was utilized for timbering, turpentine production, and cattle grazing. The natural spring basin was a swimming hole for loggers working in the forest.

In the 1970s, scuba divers discovered the extensive underwater cave system hidden beneath the spring, and exploration began.

Vortex Spring officially opened as a recreation area in 2004, allowing public access to this natural wonder.

Wildlife Encounters

The spring-fed waters create an ecological habitat supporting a diversity of plant and animal species. Below the surface, freshwater fish like largemouth bass, bream, and catfish thrive in the crystal waters. Brown and red-bellied turtles can be spotted basking atop logs. Eels slither along the rocky cavern floors, surprising unsuspecting divers. Lucky snorkelers may glimpse a rare sturgeon fish inhabiting the deepest waters. Above water, birds like ibises, herons, woodpeckers, and warblers flock to the trees surrounding the springs. Deer, foxes, bobcats, black bears, and river otters also populate the Ocala National Forest region.

The destination is alluring for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and water sports fanatics due to its refreshing waters and dynamic activities.

Admission Fee: Admission starts at $15 for adults, $10 for kids (ages 5-12), and free for children (under 4). Upgrades are available, such as snorkeling bands for the cavern area. Discounts are offered for first responders and military members.

Location: 1517 Vortex Spring Rd, Ponce De Leon

Phone: (850) 333-0896

Vortex Spring Mud Park

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Vortex Springs isn't just famous for its clear spring waters and diving opportunities. There's a whole different side to explore - the muddy side! Vortex Spring Adventures organizes various events throughout the year, including a designated mud park area for off-road enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions is the Xtreme Bounty Racing (XBR) events. These competitions bring in seriously modified ATVs and UTVs to conquer the park's mud pits and obstacle courses. It's an adrenaline-pumping experience! But that's not all.

The mud park can also be transformed into a challenging mud racing track for Xtreme Bounty Racing Mud Racing. It's the perfect opportunity to put your 4x4s and dirt bikes to the test. Get ready for some thrilling off-road action!

If speed is more your thing, Vortex Springs also hosts dirt drag racing events. Feel the rush as you zoom through the dirt tracks, competing against other speed enthusiasts. It's an exhilarating experience you won't want to miss. And for those who love a unique challenge, there's Treeapalooza. This event combines mudding with the exciting task of scaling trees. It's a one-of-a-kind adventure that will test your skills and push your limits.

Vortex Spring Cave Warning

The Grim Reaper Sign: One of the most recognizable warning signs at Vortex Spring shows the Grim Reaper, serving as a clear reminder of the dangers that lie within the cave system.

Best Places to Eat Near Vortex Spring

Near Vortex Springs in Florida, there are a few good places to eat that range from casual bites to more sit-down meals. Here's a list of some of the best spots around:

Barefoot BBQ: Known for their delicious barbecue dishes, offering everything from pulled pork to ribs. It's a casual place, great for a quick and tasty meal.
The Boathouse Landing: Offers seafood and Southern cuisine with nice views. It's a bit more upscale, good for a sit-down dinner.
Cafe Rico: A cozy spot for coffee and light bites, like sandwiches and pastries. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
La Paz Restaurant & Cantina: Serves up Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly.
Nick's Seafood Restaurant: A local favorite for fresh seafood, from fried shrimp to oysters. It's casual dining right by the water.
Stinky’s Fish Camp: Despite the name, it's a great place for seafood lovers. The vibe is relaxed, and they have a good selection of wines and beers.

These restaurants give you a variety of choices, whether you're in the mood for BBQ, seafood, or something quick and easy.

About Vortex Spring

Vortex Spring was established by Doc and Ruth Dockery. The recreation area spans over 500 acres and produces around 32 million gallons of fresh water every day. This dive park is special because it features a 200ft basin with water temperatures of 68 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. Despite its appearance, it's not your average spring. You can explore the depths of its waters, including a cave that goes down 115 feet. Vortex Spring holds the title of the largest diving facility in Florida. Divers often venture into a sunken 28 ft sailboat with a fully intact cabin. The cavern system within the springs is considered one of the largest, with new discoveries made regularly.