River Cruise with De Leon Adventures in De Leon Springs
Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical activity required.
Overview
Set sail on a historic and scenic 50-minute cruise in De Leon Springs with De Leon Adventures. Discover native history and navigate serene waters that showcase Florida’s natural beauty—and learn why this experience is a highlight for visitors seeking a relaxing, educational outing.
DeLeon Springs River Cruise
50 minutes • All ages
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 50-minute journey aboard Sunshine Sally, exploring the historic waters once navigated by Mayaca Indians and Civil War soldiers. Experience breathtaking views of Spring Garden Lake and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, enriched with fascinating narration about the area's history and natural beauty.
Welcome aboard Sunshine Sally as we explore the “healing waters” once traversed by Mayaca Indians, Civil War Soldiers, and even water-skiing elephants!
Duration
50 Minutes
About
Our tour departs from De Leon Springs State Park and travels west through Spring Garden Creek. Take in iconic views of Spring Garden Lake, Jones Island, and the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. The tour will be approximately 50 minutes in duration and will include narration on the history and natural resources of our waterway.
More info
-
De Leon Springs is a very popular park. Lines to enter the park can be long in the early morning and at peak times. Plan to arrive more than 1 hour early to ensure you make your tour.
-
If you plan on eating at the Old Sugar Mill, make sure to get your name on the list before boarding to decrease your wait time on shore.
What to bring
- Binoculars
- A camera
- Sunglasses/hat (the boat is totally shaded, but sun exposure varies with the movement of the boat)
- Bug spray
Adventure Tips
Bring Sun Protection
Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as much of the cruise is held in direct sunlight.
Arrive Early
Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures ample time for check-in and boarding.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather—layers are also helpful.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and bird identification with a pair of binoculars.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys
- Great Blue Herons
History
The waters once served as transportation routes for indigenous peoples and Civil War soldiers, deepening the area's cultural layers.
Conservation
De Leon Adventures emphasizes low-impact tourism, helping preserve the natural environment while educating visitors about local ecosystems.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Orlando
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun Protection
A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are key to staying comfortable during open-air boat trips.
summer specific
Binoculars
Use binoculars to catch more details of distant birds and wildlife.
Light Layered Clothing
Dressing in layers helps you adjust to changing temperatures during the cruise.
spring|fall specific
Camera
Capture the scenic views and wildlife encounters along the way.