One Of The Most Popular Swimming Spots In Florida Is In An Underrated Park

Crystal clear waters in a natural spring with just a tinge of sparkling blue hues make Madison Blue Spring State Park in Lee, Florida, worthy of all the accolades. Voted "America's Best Swimming Hole" by USA Today's 10Best, Madison Blue Spring is also designated as an "Outstanding Florida Spring" by the Florida Springs Institute. With a 150-foot spring run that merges into the Withlacoochee River, the spring invites you to enjoy swimming, tubing, and snorkeling in a popular swimming hole. Imagine floating down the lazy river in a tube with a cool lemonade in your hand as you gaze through the trees and commune with nature. Take the stairs down into the water, or just jump in for the ultimate plunge. The lake is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. to sunset with a consistent average water temperature of a refreshing 72 degrees.

Measuring about 82 feet wide and up to 25 feet deep, this first-magnitude spring is an ideal place to cool off in the warm Florida sun surrounded by shaded pine trees and picturesque woodlands. Located on the banks of the Withlacoochee River, the lake opens up for scuba diving, paddling, and fishing. Exciting fish catches include catfish, yellow bullhead, bluegill, and spotted sunfish. For something a little more challenging, put on your mask and snorkel through the waters in search of sunfish and turtles in their natural environment. Here, you'll see why the spring and its surrounding park make the list of Florida's most underrated state parks.

Madison Blue Spring resides in one of Florida's newest state parks, Madison Blue Spring State Park, which offers outstanding outdoor recreation. Enjoy hiking, spotting wildlife, and picnicking at three spacious picnic pavilions within the serene grounds. There's even a playground for the kids. Birding enthusiasts will be amazed at the park's selection of species, including great horned owls, hawks, woodpeckers, and yellow-throated warblers. Be sure to have your binoculars, camera, and field guide on hand. Then, canoe or kayak your way through the gentle waters of the Withlacoochee River.

Considered one of Florida's top spots for cave diving, the park's large, popular cave system with over 26,000 feet of passages attracts divers from all over the world. However, you must be certified for cave and cavern diving (and dive in pairs) to explore the mysteries hidden below. Intricate limestone passages some 30 feet below the surface of the springs feature an aquatic cave where you will find beautiful underwater scenery, unique fish, and stunning cave formations. 

If you're interested in finding out more about cave exploration, read up on the beginner's guide to spelunking and cave camping. When you're ready, put your skills to the test in another dangerous underwater cave dive in Florida.