Juniper Springs Recreation Area

I hate to do this because this used to be my favorite place. My fiance and I went today and they promised despite the long line of cars it wasn't busy. We walk to the water and we could not even get in because there were so many people, people shoving each other, blocking the stairs, there was not one place we could get access to the water. We immediately asked for a refund, we only went to swim. The very rude girl said no. 15.50 a person is insane. Where does the money go, this is the most run down spring. 😔

Beautiful spring. We brought our masks and snorkels. There are tons if little fish to swim with and eel grass to explore. The pool isn't very large, so on a crowded day would be cramped. We got there early in the off peak weeks before summer and had the place to ourselves for a few hours. Camping in the park looks good. We didn't camp, but explored the sites. Picnic tables, trash hook, bathrooms. If you live close or are passing through, it's a nice stop. Cost was $14 per person. They also have kayak rentals that look fun, but we didn't have time. Staff very friendly and helpful. Clean park and facilities. Swimming area has clean bathrooms with showers. Concession stand has basic needs you may have forgotten (sun block, etc), snacks and drinks. Lots of trails to explore and an old wheel house with historic information. Lots to do.

We go strictly for the kayak run. The rest of the park could use some updating. The run is challenging and not to be taken by beginners. Not that it cant be done but it wont be as fun for someone who cant handle thier boat. It has a couple small rapid areas that are super fun! Wild life is abundant if you can travel quietly. Its quite a paddle even for the seasoned but well worth it. Then you get a nice comfortable ride back to the parking area at the springs. Highly recommended!!

Paddled the river. Shorter kayaks are better as there are a lot of narrow twists and turns. There were 2 rapid water areas for a short distance. Plenty of low trees to go under and sweeps. Challenging for boats over 8 ft if not experienced and going the 7 mi trip. Like paddling through the jungle. Very cool.

The campsites where clean and the fire ring was well kept. A good portion of the sites are pull through and outward facing. Quiet time was well enforced.

The bathhouse have no climate control and the showers are push button so you have to push the button over and over, like every minute, to keep the water flowing. There was no soap at the sinks and the bathroom was filthy.

While it was too cold to swim we hiked out to the spring. The swimming area is small but we'll kept and the Millhouse is in fantastic condition. The boardwalk however leave something to be desired. There is also a kayak run here and they will ferry you back to the headstrong, didn't do it but will likely come back.