Spring fed river, incredibly clear.  In addition to abundant underwater wildlife, see springs bubbling into river (looks like bubbling sand).  Easy snorkel since you get taken upriver in a boat and "float" down.

Biology interest is based on both land and water creatures, especially birds and large freshwater fish. Week-end frequency based on holidays and summertime, otherwise not too bad in the early morning when the best animals are active.

Very quiet setting, recommended to get there EARLY, 8am when the park opens, to beat any crowds and big dive classes (they arrive around 11:30 or 12 usually). Gentle current allows good introduction into handling your buoyancy on a drift dive. Gentle sloping landscape underwater, worst thing you'll run into is tall grass or a sunken log.

In various spots the spring feeding the river bubbles up from the sand, and from small caves, which is quite interesting the first time someone experiences it (seeing the sand "boil," feeling the temperature differences). Large alligator gar and turtles may come by to say hello

You can easily access the first entry point by going to the main gate for the park and hopping a boat, or simply taking the short trail down to the water's edge. The docks and walkways are brand new, either paved or wooden depending which you choose. Very easy access either way.

Paved parking, small fee to enter park.

From Orlando - Approximately 83 miles ( time 1 hour & 40 min)  1. Take I-4 East or West or Florida Turnpike North exit #77  2. Go North on the Florida Turnpike approximately 55 miles 3. Turnpike will turn to I-75 North  4. Take I-75 North for 10 miles to Hwy.484 exit # 341 turn left 5. Take Hwy. 484 West to Dunnellon Fl. Approximately 20 miles to Hwy 41 6. Go right , North 3 miles to SW 99th Place. Turn right at light go 1 mile cross RR track then go left after crossings, 1 mile on right is KP Hole County Park

Rainbow River

My family and I have been down the Rainbow River several times, both snorkeling and diving, both day and night. The water is very clear. Water temperature is in the lower 70s year round. There is always lots of wildlife around to be seen. Turtles, garfish, river otters, and lots of water birds can be seen. We went with American Pro Divers, but other dive shops do training and operate boats on this river. The main access point for the rainbow river is a very nice local park called KP Hole. They have access for boats on trailers. Also you can rent canoes. If you are not with a group (away from a dive boat) be sure to tow a dive flag.

Danny's Dive Log

@danny

1 dives