Florida is full of white sand beaches and postcard-worthy vacation destinations. But they’re also pretty expensive.
So wouldn’t it be great to find a free, beautiful place to spend the day? Morrison Springs offers just that opportunity.
Whether you want to spend a few hours kayaking or splashing in the spring water, Morrison Springs is a stunning oasis.
We want to know more!
Where is Morrison Springs located?
There are many natural hot springs in the Sunshine State. Morrison Springs is a popular place for locals and tourists.
You will find these hot springs at 874 Morrison Springs Road in Ponce de Leon at the end of the Choctawhatchee River in the Florida Panhandle.
It is about an hour north of the west coast beaches of Panama City, Destin and Seaside. Less than 10 minutes north is Ponce de Leon Springs State Park.
If you want to spend a day in Morrison Springs, combine it with a visit to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, which offers more opportunities for swimming, hiking, snorkeling and fishing. Admission to the state park is $4 per vehicle.
What is Morrison Springs known for?
Some visit this Florida spring for the beautiful views and scenic location, while others go to Ponce de Leon to relax in the water. However, many enjoy the diving and swimming here.
The 250-foot diameter spring-fed pool is an ideal place for year-round fun. Visitors have access to large docks overlooking the springs, a diving dock and a boat ramp surrounded by beautiful old-growth cypress trees.
Who owns Morrison Springs?
Although Morrison Springs was once privately owned, the park is now managed by Walton County. In 2004, the state purchased the park and leased it to the county for maintenance. It is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week.
How big is Morrison Springs?
The entire park is 161 acres, but the spring is about 250 feet in diameter. The springs themselves produce an estimated 48 million gallons of water per day.
The deepest well extends to a depth of about 300 feet. The depth and crystal clear water make this an ideal dive site.
There is also a spring-fed stream here that carries water into the Choctawhatchee River. The slow-moving spring run is about 150 feet wide and flows less than a mile to join the river.
How much does it cost to visit Morrison Springs?
Unlike many other hot springs in Florida, visiting Morrison Springs costs nothing. Anyone can swim or snorkel without paying admission or making a reservation.
At the popular Devil’s Den outside Ocala, Florida, visitors who do not want to snorkel or dive must pay a $7 fee to enter the site. Admission is $38 for divers and $18 to $25 for snorkelers.
Don’t forget: Are you ready to visit more hot springs in Florida? These are the best hot springs in the Sunshine State worth visiting!
Is scuba diving allowed in Morrison Springs?
Many people enjoy scuba diving in Morrison Springs. The color of the water is beautifully turquoise, as in other areas of Florida. While diving, fishing or swimming, you may encounter turtles, freshwater eels, bluefish, bass, cichlids, catfish and tilapia.
The website includes a report on water clarity with a scale of one to five, where one is completely clear and five is muddy. In this way, divers can learn about the water conditions before they head out.
The deep cavities and cave system attract divers to this site daily. The platform at the end of the boardwalk makes it easy to get in and out.
Is swimming allowed in Morrison Springs?
Like scuba diving, swimming is also very popular in Morrison Springs. The average water temperature of 68 degrees makes for a pleasant swim year-round. There is also a platform from which children can jump into the water. So it is likely that you will hear squeals and laughter during your visit.
This popular spot is not a peaceful, quiet place to relax. But if you’re looking for a family-friendly environment where the kids can play in the water all day, take them to this little oasis.
Are boats allowed in Morrison Springs?
You can bring boats, kayaks and canoes. The spring run offers paddlers beautiful views and easy access to the Choctawhatchee River.
It’s also a great place to view wildlife. Plus, you can easily launch boats, kayaks and canoes from the boat ramp just past the parking lot.
Please note: Move your kayak to Morrison Springs with ease with one of the best kayak trailers!
When is the best time to visit Morrison Springs?
The Florida Panhandle offers some of the best weather in the country year-round. Whether you visit in December or July, you’ll find your stay in Morrison Springs to be a pleasant one.
However, it does get a bit crowded in the summer due to the influx of families after school ends. If you prefer things to be a little quieter, visit in the spring or fall.
Enjoy a day at one of Florida’s most beautiful springs
Florida is known for its beautiful springs. Morrison Springs may not be one of the most popular places like Crystal River, Rainbow Springs or Juniper Springs, but it is definitely worth a visit, especially since it is free. It’s a great place to spend a fun day with the family and enjoy the picturesque scenery and beautiful blue water.
Have you ever visited Morrison Springs in Ponce de Leon, Florida?