About 100 miles north of Tampa,in the small Town of Dunellon,lies the Rainbow River.It is formed by Rainbow Springs,which is a first magnitude spring(actually it is not just one spring,but many springs that bubble up) and is ranked fourth in the state for volume of discharge.
Originally called Blue Springs,the area became popular in the 1880’s when hard rock phosphate was discovered.In the 1930’s the area was developed into a tourist attraction.
It’s real hey day was in the 1960’s,but,alas,with the construction of I-75,the tourists were diverted to other attractions,and the park fell into disrepair,and the park closed in 1974.It was designated a Registered National Landmark in 1972,an Aquatic Preserve in 1986,and an “Outstanding Florida Waterway” in 1987.In 1990,the state purchased the original park,and with help from community volunteers,it opened as Rainbow Springs State Park in 1995.
At this time of year,it is known for the outstanding show put on by the flowering azaleas.
But there is wildlife there,too…..
Makes you wish fishing were allowed in the park,doesn’t it?
Posted for Outdoor Wednesday……….
and Waterside Wednesday………..
10 comments:
Fantastic shots.
Sydney - City and Suburbs
A wonderful park, and great place to kayak!
I definitely would want to go fishing there! Probably not allowed, huh? Beautiful scenery.
I love the turtle. the place looks so serene. wish I was there.
How wonderful...and what a cute turtle!
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
: )
Julie M.
Wow beautiful outdoor scenes.
Thank you for sharing.
Rainbow is my favorite park, thanks to its roots as a roadside attraction. It's especially great for seniors who want a surer-footed path.
Great photos! I was there earlier in the year and didn't get to see anything flowering, so I am going to have to go back.
Rainbow is, in my mind, the best entertainment value in Florida. Two dollars? Can't beat that!
I like this series of shots. Thanks for sharing and doing a Watery Wednesday. :-)
Great shots! I have not been to Rainbow River in quite a while. I used to go camping and canoeing there when the boys were little.
~ Tracy
Ok, this place is definitely on my list of places to visit. Great shots!
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