The Emerald coast has many local springs. Ask anyone from Walton/ Okaloosa county about all the beautiful fresh water springs and lakes around our area and they will give you a list of all of their favorites from Vortex to Econfina to Holmes Creek. The most well known around this area is of course Vortex Springs, located in Defuniak Springs, Florida.

They have recently vamped it up with different slides, swings, zip-lines, rental gear to snorkel or scuba dive. This place has and vast cave system to dive through along with a camping area with Rv hook ups. This makes it fun for every age group. Not far from Vortex you will find a more laid back area called Morrison springs. Although there is no rental gear it is still one of the most breath taking springs around. To beat the crowds definitely go during the week, however the area is fairly big regardless. There are platforms to jump off, trees to with rope swings, and caves to dive in. If you are looking to do some canoeing or kayaking, jump onto the Ecofina river which takes you through the lush green forest with more than 6 different fresh springs along the way. Stop to snorkel or relax and have a picnic. Ecofina’s river takes about 3-3 1/2 hours unless you are making stops at all the springs. Econfina also has some springs open to the public without having to paddle down the river. They are located at the very end of the river. If you are looking for a little more adventure I would head to one of my favorite hidden springs, called Holmes Creek. This Spring is located off of HWY 20 towards Panama City Beach, Florida. You will need to rent your own equipment to get down this river, where the spring resides. Some go just for a day but you can make a weekend of it if you want to camping on the river. They have fire pits and built in grills. What makes this natural spring so enticing to is that it is hardly ever crowded making the quiet river run with all the beautiful cypress trees an unforgettable atmosphere and experience. No matter what spring you choose none of them will let you down. They all have their own very unique personalities with different activities to do with your family and friends.