Florida Springs recommendations

[mcf57]

I have been a certified diver for about 3yrs now and have about 20 dives logged so far. I've wanted to dive some of the Florida natural springs for a while now and this summer might present me with the opportunity to do so.

I live in the Atlanta area and am looking to possibly do a long weekend with the family at one of these natural Springs. Also probably gonna have a buddy and his family tag along too. It will be 4 adults and 4 kids (ages 3-7). Therefore, I'm looking for a place or area that might offer something for everyone. We would want to probably get some sort of cabin for accommodations too.

I am the only certified diver so would obivously need to find a partner when I get to a dive place. Also, I have none of my own equipment so will probably need to rent stuff on-site. Although, there is a local dive shop near my home that I could probably rent stuff for the weekend as well. So if needed, could do that.

I think I've seen one (can't remember the name off-hand) where you can dive & float down the river. Maybe the rest of the family go do that as well while I'm diving. Or maybe some of the springs offer general swimming for the rest of the family while I am diving. Any suggestions on a place that would be enjoyed by all?

 

[metaldector]

I think the place you are thinking about is Rainbow River in Dunnellon, FL. Nice clear water, max depth about 20', lots of fresh water life (fish, turtles, etc.). There is tubing on the river for those that don't dive, fishing, and site seeing. We've even seen river otters on the river from time to time.
Another place you might like is Troy Springs (google it for details). You can probably find a buddy at the gate as it requires a buddy to dive.
And there is Crystal River on the West coast of Florida where the manatee hangout in the winter months.
Since you have so few dives, no equipment, and no buddy I'd stay away from those springs with caves, and caverns (except for Devil's Den). Good luck and have fun.

 

[mcf57]

Yea, I think you are right. Rainbow River is the one I was thinking of. I also just found this site that seems to have a lot of info for various FL springs. I didn't realize there were this many too.

Florida Springs: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Florida Springs

 

[SkimFisher]

Just watch out for boats and make sure you tow a dive flag.

 

[The Mighty Thor]

Ginnie Springs is not a bad option either. It's not far from the GA border, you can rent equipment there, there are a couple of good areas for non cave certed divers, there is tubing for the kids and lots of open spaces and woods to explore. Not sure about cabins, although plenty of people camp there.

 

[ColinB]

In December I was in Fl for work and added a day to my trip to dive, and I did the Rainbow River as well as a morning snorkle with the manatees, which I would think would be a cool thing to to with the family. I've heard good things about Birds Underwater on this site (they were full when I went), so they might be a good resource to check on options with.
Manatee Tours Florida Manatee Swims Swimming With Manatee Florida

Hope this helps and have fun!
-Colin