Friday Finds; Manatee Springs State Park

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Today's "find" is another interesting Florida State Park: Manatee Springs!
If you enjoy camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking, swimming in pure spring water and seeing Manatees--this is the place to go!
Apparently, they even have a service providing in-park take-out Barbecue!



Located on the west side of Florida along the Suwanee River, Manatee Springs State Park is just north of the Lower Suwanee National Wildlife Refuge, west of of Highway 19/98.
Abundant Cypress Trees
are a unique feature of this park.
They're common throughout Florida. I see them here in the fall.Their feathery leaves turn a brilliant orange!



Plus the park has a lovely boardwalk for you to enjoy viewing the Cypress grove,  since Cypress are trees that like standing in water and bog.






There's Manatees, of course, and to protect them, no boating is allowed on the Springs. Just Canoes & Kayaks, which are available for rent in the park can be used on the Springs!
(Boating is allowed out on the Suwanee River.)



 


For the Scuba fan, Manatee Springs has a sink hole & caves that certified divers can enjoy exploring!














Hiking:  There's 8. 5 miles of nature trails available!
Camping:  86 sites with water & electric. Some sites are paved, some are gravel and there's areas for tents. Pets are allowed, but must be on a 6 foot leash & under the owners control at all times.
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Hope you enjoyed this mini-tour of Manatee Springs State Park!
If you'd like your kids to see wild Manatees in their native environment, you'll want to put it on your list!
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See for Good Eating Monday!

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