Today is officially the first day of summer! With temperatures in June averaging 90 degrees and 91 degrees in July, according to usclimatedata.com, it’s tempting to beat the heat by hiding indoors with the blinds drawn closed. Luckily, we’ve outlined some fun water activities in and around Gainesville. These activities are great for families to enjoy when the sun is shining and hot!
Devil’s Den Spring
Devil’s Den is located in Williston, Florida about 30 minutes outside of Gainesville. It’s a natural spring that is privately owned. The owners do not offer public swimming but do offer scuba diving and snorkeling to the public for a fee. According to the Devil’s Den website, the cost of admission to Devil’s Den is $15/person Monday-Friday and $20/person on weekends and holidays. If you need to rent snorkel equipment it is $10/person for a snorkel, mask, and fins. Devil’s Den is a great way to cool off in 72-degree water. They are open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for Christmas day when they are closed.
Bob’s River Place
Bob’s River Place is a family friendly swimming hole on the Suwannee River in Branford, Florida. The swimming hole offers amenities such as, water slides, rope swings, jumping platforms, picnic tables, pavilions, and areas to barbecue. The cost of entering the area where Bob’s is located is $25/vehicle for the entire day. There are no additional costs and tons of fun things to do. Bob’s is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.
Alachua Spray/Splash Park
Located at the Hal Brady Recreation Center in Alachua, Florida, the Spray/Splash Park is a blast for a family with small children. The facility is open from dawn to dusk daily and free to the public, according to the Visit Alachua website. If you’re interested in using any of their facilities between 10 a.m. and noon for private parties they must be reserved.
Ginnie Springs
Ginnie Springs is one of the highlights of summer in Florida. Located in High Springs, Florida, Ginnie Springs is perfect for tubing, swimming, and snorkeling. The park is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. According to the Ginnie Springs, admission costs $14.02 per adult, $3.63 for children six to 12 years old, and free for children below 5 years of age. If you’re interested in tubing feel free to bring your own tube or rent one for $5.60.
Don’t let the summer heat keep you inside this year!
