Starting at $20.00
Kids aged 7-12 can learn pancake-making hands-on at De Leon Springs, Florida, combining outdoor fun with cooking skills in a safe, friendly setting. Discover how this unique experience creates lasting memories for families visiting this natural spring haven.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, requiring mostly sitting and light standing during cooking
Wildlife
History
De Leon Springs holds Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León’s namesake and has been a freshwater oasis for centuries, including use by Indigenous peoples.
Conservation
The park emphasizes sustainable tourism by promoting 'leave no trace' practices and protecting the natural spring environment.
De Leon Adventures
Starting at $20.00
De Leon Adventures operates from De Leon Springs, Florida, offering guided tours, boat cruises, rentals, and educational experiences focused on the local springs, waterways, and wildlife. The company provides a narrated 50-minute DeLeon Springs River Cruise aboard Sunshine Sally that explores Spring Garden Lake and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge and highlights the area's natural and historical significance. Guided kayak and paddlecraft tours on Spring Garden Creek introduce visitors to wading birds, manatees, and occasional alligators, with small group sizes that emphasize safety and personalized attention. Guided hiking tours traverse trails where birding and wildlife photography are common, led by knowledgeable naturalists who point out regional flora and fauna. Seasonal and themed offerings include a Haunted Halloween Boat Tour that runs as a seasonal attraction and a Children’s Pancake Cooking Class designed for ages seven to twelve, combining hands-on cooking with a meal. Non-guided options include pedal boat and other equipment rentals for self-guided exploration of the spring areas.
De Leon Adventures focuses on interpretive narration, wildlife viewing, and family-friendly activities that match the natural and historical character of De Leon Springs. Safety and stewardship of the springs are integrated into guided programs through small group management and on-water oversight. Visitors can choose from short narrated cruises, guided paddling excursions, hikes, and specialty programs that suit a range of interests and ages. The organization is based in De Leon Springs and operates within the local spring and creek environments.
Programs emphasize respectful wildlife viewing and strict adherence to local rules.
Location
De Leon Springs, FL
Historic springside setting
Signature Cruise
50 min
Narrated river cruise aboard Sunshine Sally
Tours Offered
8
Range of guided and rental options
Family Friendly
Children’s classes
Activities for ages 7–12
Reserve narrated cruises, guided paddles, hikes, rentals, or family classes to experience De Leon Springs' natural beauty.
Arrive Early to Secure Your Spot
Classes may fill quickly, so try to book and arrive early to ensure your child gets to participate.
Dress for Mess and Comfort
Children should wear comfortable, easy-to-clean clothing as cooking can get messy.
Hydrate and Snack Afterwards
The class is active and fun; having water and snacks on hand is helpful post-session.
Check Weather for Outdoor Activities
De Leon Springs offers plenty of additional outdoor options; plan accordingly for sun or rain.
Apron
Protects clothing during pancake preparation and keeps kids clean.
Chef’s Hat or Hair Tie
Keeps hair secured and hygienic while cooking.
Comfortable Clothing
Allows kids to move freely and enjoy the class without restrictions.
Reusable Water Bottle
Helpful to stay hydrated during the class and outdoor activities afterward.
summer