By Gail Radley
You can stop studying Michael Phelps’ technique. No more grueling sloshing up and down the swim lanes. Tell your coach to pocket her whistle. I’m going to let you in on a four-word secret that will have you swimming like a champ:
Blue Spring State Park. But if you want to sound like a local, just call it Blue Springs.
Just $4 ($6 for a carload of two to eight) gets you into this 2,600-acre state park in Orange City. Nestled on along the St. Johns River, it’s famous for
its large spring, home to numerous West Indian Manatees during the winter months. These gentle, multi-ton “sea cows” lumber into the spring run to enjoy the 73-degree warm water to escape the chilly St. Johns. At that time, the swimming hole is theirs alone, so bring binoculars and cameras and join the nature lovers at the overlooks if you come then.
But from April through early November, it’s generally clear swimming for the humanoids. You can climb into 73-degree water in the crystal-clear, roped-in swimming area or jump from the dock if you prefer a fast and cooling dunk. The more adventurous stroke their way up to the “boil” (that’s the cave from which the water bubbles up; don’t expect warmer waters). Along the way, soak in the beauty of natural Florida — no cement siding here. Overhanging trees shelter you from the sun, scrub jays and herons flit to and fro overhead. You will be one with nature. One thing you probably won’t see is fish: the closer to the boil, the less oxygen is in the water, so they stay closer to the St. Johns. (P.S. You will need a strong stroke & a good kick to make this swim.)
Many forego the long swim and wade in at the landing just below the boil. (Follow the boardwalk through the hammock to find the landing.) From this point, you may swim a little, but will probably wade most of the way. Water shoes are an asset because of the rocky bottom and—because rangers try not to tamper with Mother Nature—there may also be submerged tree trunks.
Soon enough, you’ll be at the basin-like springhead. It’s plenty deep there and wide enough for some fun swimming. The cave below is difficult to make out, but you can locate it by the swirling water above. Snorkeling is permitted, and certified scuba divers can register and explore, buddy system required.
What about swimming like an Olympian? That’s for the trip back! You can practically float all the way, letting the current carry you to the roped area, if you wish. But why not make like Michael Phelps in slow-mo? Focus on your beautiful stroke as you effortlessly race to the finish line. The birds will cheer you every kick of the way.