FLORIDA IS SO MUCH MORE THAN DISNEY!

Many families traveling through Florida to Disney World forget to consider the many hidden treasures in the state.  I am not talking about the beautiful beaches either.  Waterfalls? Caves? Pristine spring fed swimming holes?  Did you know all of these can be found in the "sunshine state" and not far from your path when traveling to and from a visit to the home of your favorite mouse!  Whether you are planning your next trip to Disney World or just a trip to to Florida, consider the offerings below! Your Frugal Family Travelers will not be disappointed!

Many of our readers already know how our Frugal Family Travelers feel about state parks.  Many unique places are under the purview of state governments and Florida is no exception.   While known for its beaches and of course, Disney, Florida is also home to many pristine spring fed swimming holes which provide unique opportunities for outdoor fun.  Our Frugal Family Travelers have visited one of these locations but the one featured in this post was actually suggested by a reader and friend!  

Madison Blue Spring State Park features an amazing 82 ft wide and 25 ft deep spring fed swimming hole.  This is truly an oasis like something found on a tropical island. 

Cost:  Florida State Park Fee Schedule 

Directions: 

8300 NE State Road 6

Lee, FL 32059

(850) 971-5003

Madison Blue Spring is approximately 10 miles (16 km) east of Madison on the west bank of the Withlacoochee River. Madison is located not far from the I-10 corridor between Tallahassee and Lake City.  From Madison, drive east on SR 6 to the Withlacoochee River. Turn south on the west side of the bridge at the park sign. Spring is 525 ft (160 m) south of the highway.

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Falling Creek Falls is quite the unexpected location, particularly when thinking about Florida.  It is part of the Suwannee River Water Management Area in Columbia County Florida and is located just outside Lake City.  Our Frugal Family Travelers  really enjoyed our visit here! 

Cost: Free 

Directions from Lake City:

Travel north on US 41, pass under I-10, turn right on NW Falling Creek Road; travel 1 mile. The park is on the right before crossing the creek.  

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Our third suggestions for "off the beaten path" travel is the Florida Caverns State Park.  Not only will a beautiful cave with limestone formations be found here but one can also hike, bike, canoe and golf! There is something here for Frugal Family Traveler in your group!

Cost: Florida State Park Fee Schedule

Directions: 

3345 Caverns Road

Marianna, FL 32446

(850) 482-1228

Click on ALL underlined text for access to more information regarding each location above!

Disclaimer:

All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

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