There is something about Ponce de Leon Springs State recreation area that just takes you back in time. The spring itself, is it the mythical fountain of youth searched for by its namesake? Some say it is. The shoring of concrete around the spring was constructed almost fifty years ago (by the Civilian Conservation Corps), replacing the wood surround placed there by the family who owned the land in the 1920s to help slow erosion. The 443 acre tract was donated to the state of Florida in 1970. The canopy of live oaks that surround the site were seedlings in antebellum times, the Spanish moss is an appropriate accouterment, considering the area's proximity to the old Spanish Trail.

Clearwater springs are abundant in Florida, especially in the peninsula. Notable clearwater springs include: Rainbow Springs, Salt Springs, Silver Springs, and Juniper Springs among many others. These Springs are less common in the western panhandle, and the springs in this area are smaller in scale than the peninsular springs (Salt Springs, for example, feeds into Lake George and subsequently into the St. Johns river). These springs have always been recreation sites and supreme swimming holes for the landlocked Floridian. Many of the peninsular springs can be accessed by boat due to their association with larger bodies of water.

Ponce de Leon Springs is located west of Crestview and north of Panama City, just off of Interstate 10. It is near the tiny town of Ponce de Leon, on the crossroads of state road 81 and I-10, and it occupies land in both Holmes and Walton counties. Millions of people drive by on I-10, it is the main east/west artery of this region, connecting points west with I-75 and I-95, two of the most traveled interstates in the southeast. Not many people stop in Ponce de Leon, there are few services, and the price of gas is a little high. There is a rest area in Ponce de Leon that gives a hint of the picturesque splendor that the area offers.

The Spring: The spring pumps forth 14 million gallons of supremely pure water a day. The water is filtered from the subterranean source by layers of limerock. The water also maintains a consistent temperature year round, 68 degrees. Therein lies the draw. A cool, pure swimming hole that contrasts wonderfully with the simmering hot summer temperatures of the inland panhandle. If spring break revelers in Panama City knew about this place, they just might trek this far north for a purifying dip in the crystal water. It would offer an attractive respite from the salty gulf waters, and it very well might be the secret cure for hangovers. One note about the water temperature, on a really cold day (we get them here, believe it or not) the spring is transformed into a hot spring of sorts. Due to the consistent temperature regulated by tens of feet of earth, the spring contrasts with cold temperatures as well.

The facilities: The facilities are simple and adequate, and the park is small by park standards. There are picnic tables among the live oaks and the native vegetation. There are two nature trails, I highly recommend strolling along both of them. There is ample parking, and the park is well maintained, although some litter may build up on heavy use days. Bring a cooler with what you want to eat and drink. I wouldn't count on finding anything other than a vending machine in the park area. Take some cold fried chicken.

When to go: Skip major holidays, such as the Fourth, Labor day and Memorial day. The locals come out in force on holidays. I recommend a weekday during the summer. You'll likely be sharing the park with some moms and kids and a few visitors. Going when the crowds are light will enhance your experience, the spring's swimming area is small and it can get crowded.

If you are in our neck of the woods, give Ponce de Leon springs a look. It is an idyllic swimming hole that harkens back to simpler times. There is history in every nook and cranny, and if you are like me, you just might feel like you stepped into a time warp.



Recommended: Yes