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5 Ways to Enjoy & Show Some LOVE to the Weeki Wachee Springs & River on Your Next Florida Glamping Trip

Weeki Wachee Springs is one of Florida’s most breathtaking natural treasures — a place where crystal-clear water glows turquoise, wildlife thrives, and adventure waits around every bend. Whether you're planning a day trip or staying at a nearby Florida glamping site, there are countless ways to experience this spring-fed paradise while protecting it for future generations.

 

Below are five ways to enjoy the Weeki Wachee River - including tips and resources to help you plan a meaningful, low-impact visit.


1. Float the Weeki Wachee River


Kayaking and paddleboarding the Weeki Wachee River is one of the most peaceful ways to experience its beauty. The gentle current, which varies depending on ocean tides (~8 mph), carries you past lush shorelines, crystal-clear water, and abundant wildlife — a perfect adventure for Florida glamping travelers seeking nature and relaxation.

 

Tips for floating down the river & showing Mother Nature some love:


  • Human-powered vessels like kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards are great on the river (boats are permitted too)

  • You can cool off in the river, but please avoid beaching your vessel and crushing vegetation

  • Bring your reusable water bottle – avoid single-use plastics or other one-time use items that can easily blow away

 

PRO TIP: Consider booking a waterfront property that includes kayaks.  This will maximize your time on the water.  You can rent kayaks from the Weeki Wachee State Park (return shuttle is offered a few miles downriver), but you must reserve ahead, and it books up! 

 

Helpful resource: Check out a map of the river and learn about the Spring Protection Zone.

 

2. Visit the Weeki Wachee Springhead & Buccaneer Bay Waterpark


The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park offers iconic Florida experiences, including their world-famous mermaid shows, Buccaneer Bay (one of Florida’s only spring-fed water parks), and a short boat ride to see the river.

 

Know before you go:


  • Arrive early — the park often reaches capacity, especially in the summer

  • Check showtimes and seasonal hours in advance

  • Don’t expect hiking trails & serenity with nature – it’s not that sort of state park 😊

 

PRO TIP:  If you book a waterfront property with kayaks, you can paddle up the river through the state park; however, the springhead is roped off to prevent access.  In my humble opinion, unless you have kids or are interested in the mermaid show, I’d pass on the state park.

 

Helpful resource: Check Florida State Parks – Weeki Wachee Springs for launch points, rentals, shuttle services, and river rules.

 

3. Observe Wildlife like Manatee From a Distance


The Weeki Wachee ecosystem is home to manatees, turtles, river otters, fish, and countless bird species. If you are lucky, you may even spot a dolphin coming from the Gulf.  One of the most rewarding experiences for glampers and nature lovers is slowing down and observing wildlife without disturbing it.


Wildlife-friendly best practices:


  • Keep noise levels low

  • Never feed wildlife

  • Keep your distance – it’s actually illegal to touch manatees in Florida 😊


PRO TIP: Manatees frequent the river during the winter months as the ocean is chilly and they seek out the warm spring water, which comes out of the earth around 72 degrees F.


Helpful resource:  Take into account the weather based on what activities interest you for your trip.


4. Leave No Trace or Better


A hallmark of eco-friendly glamping adventures is leaving nature better than you found it. The Weeki Wachee River benefits when visitors take extra care. 


Simple ways to help:


  • Use a waterproof bag to store loose items (so they do not end up at the bottom of the river 😊)

  • Make a game out of grabbing any litter you might see

  • Don’t climb trees, as it can cause damage and erode riverbanks


Local organizations like Keep Hernando Beautiful and Save the Manatee Club offer river cleanup events and educational resources.  


PRO TIP: Big Love Glamping donates to local preservation organizations, and your stay helps!  


Helpful Resource:  There is a video that explains the state park’s rules on disposable containers – this is especially important if you book kayaking through the state park.


5. Support Local, Eco-Minded Businesses


From kayak outfitters to cafés and vacation rentals, supporting businesses that prioritize conservation helps protect the river for everyone.


What to look for:


  • Education about spring & river for guests

  • Promotion of Wildlife-safe practices

  • Offers water filtration at rental and other eco-friendly amenities  


Choosing eco-conscious Florida glamping accommodations allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of Weeki Wachee and show the river some love.


Enjoy the Weeki Wachee River & Show It Some Love


Whether you’re glamping in style at Big Love Glamping or simply visiting for a day, the Weeki Wachee River isn’t just a destination — it’s a living ecosystem. Treat it with care, and it will remain magical for everyone who comes after you. 💚


 
 
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