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

Find the KP Hole Park, then pay to get in.  The boat ramp is on the side of the park.  You can rent a kayak right there.  The current is light, and the locals told me no rain has made river low. Paddle up less than two miles.  Takes 60 or more minutes. Suit up (the water is cold). Drift back down. We actually snorkeled this time.  Water is pretty shallow for diving, probably 5-20 feet at most.  We saw an alligator while snorkeling.  You can't take your dog in the park, but you can take him on the river (we had a triple kayak). There is a large parking area, and a place for RV's also.

Lori File's Dive Log

@lori_file

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