Wekiwa Springs State Park, at 1800 Wekiwa Circle in Apopka, protects about 7,000 acres of spring-fed river, pine flatwoods and wet hammock about 15 miles north of downtown Orlando. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset every day, and day-use entry requires a reservation through the Florida State Parks system; the fee is $6 USD per vehicle with two to eight occupants. A network of marked trails leaves the main parking area, including a multi-use loop of roughly 13.5 miles (21.7 km) shared with cyclists and, on designated sections, horses, plus shorter walks beside the clear spring run and the Wekiva River. All routes are flat, with sandy tread that can be soft or flooded after summer rain, so the effort is about distance and heat rather than climbing. Typical wildlife includes white-tailed deer, river otters, turtles, wading birds and the occasional black bear, and visitors keep food secured and never feed animals. Water is available at the concession and bathhouse near the spring but not along the backcountry trails. The spring swimming area is popular on weekends and can close when it reaches capacity, so arrive early. Ticks, mosquitoes and snakes are present year-round; wear long pants and repellent in the wet season.
| Distance | Multi-use trail system of about 13.5 miles (21.7 km) with shorter spur walks, about 15 miles (24 km) north of downtown Orlando |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-5 hours depending on route |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Best season | November-April (cooler, fewer mosquitoes and ticks) |
| Address | 1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Wekiwa Springs State Park, Apopka
What to bring
- Water
- Insect repellent
- Closed-toe shoes
- Swimsuit for the spring
- Trail map
Location
1800 Wekiwa Circle, Apopka, FL 32712
28.7115, -81.4620 View on map
Highlights
- Flat sandy loops through pine flatwoods and wet hammock
- Spring-fed run with clear water and a swimming area at the trailhead
- Chance to see deer, otters, turtles and wading birds
- Backcountry route of about 13.5 miles for long-distance walkers
Tips for visiting
- Reserve day-use entry online before driving; the park fills on warm weekends.
- Start before 9 a.m. in summer to avoid heat and afternoon lightning.
- Carry all the water needed; none is provided on the backcountry loop.
- Check trail conditions at the ranger station, as parts of the trail flood after heavy rain.
- Use repellent and check for ticks after walking in grass or brush.
When to visit
November-April (cooler, fewer mosquitoes and ticks); go early to avoid midday heat and afternoon storms.
Accessibility
The spring area, concession and the short paved routes beside the spring run are accessible; the long loop trails are sandy and uneven and are not suited to wheelchairs. Confirm current conditions with the park.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the walk?
Multi-use trail system of about 13.5 miles (21.7 km) with shorter spur walks. Most visitors need 1-5 hours depending on route.
Is there a fee?
Entry is $6 USD per vehicle ($4 USD single occupant, $2 USD per pedestrian or cyclist); day-use reservations are required.
When is the best time to go?
November-April (cooler, fewer mosquitoes and ticks).
Can visitors swim in Wekiwa Springs?
Yes. The spring has a designated swimming area with a bathhouse, and it can close when it reaches capacity, so arriving early helps.