Discover the wildlife and natural beauty of Wakulla Springs on a guided River Boat Tour led by expert rangers. Glide through towering cypress trees and spot alligators, wading birds, and more in an unforgettable Florida setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable boat seating and minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Wakulla Springs has been recognized as one of the world's largest springs and served as a natural filming location for Hollywood classics like 'Creature from the Black Lagoon.'
Conservation
The area is actively managed to preserve its water quality and wildlife populations, with ongoing efforts to protect its delicate ecosystems from development impacts.
The Lodge at Wakulla Springs
Discover the wildlife and natural beauty of Wakulla Springs on a guided River Boat Tour led by expert rangers. Glide through towering cypress trees and spot alligators, wading birds, and more in an unforgettable Florida setting.
The Lodge at Wakulla Springs offers curated outdoor and dining experiences on the Wakulla River in Wakulla Springs, Florida. Guided river boat tours highlight the area's signature bald cypress trees and abundant wildlife, including wading birds and alligators, and are led by a knowledgeable ranger who shares local history and natural science context. The River Boat Tour is designed for nature lovers and families seeking close-up wildlife viewing in a scenic riverside setting.
In addition to wildlife cruises, The Lodge at Wakulla Springs hosts a Boat and Brunch experience that combines a scenic boat tour with a waterfront terrace buffet. The brunch menu features breakfast favorites such as mini waffles, chicken tenders, and fresh pastries, with mimosas and Bloody Marys available to complement the meal. Dining takes place on the terrace after the boat portion of the event to maximize waterfront views.
The Lodge also presents seasonal themed evenings. Murder Mystery events scheduled for October 2025 include immersive themes such as 1930s Old Hollywood and 1980s nostalgia; these evenings feature a buffet and encourage costumes for an interactive puzzle-solving experience. The Creature Cruise on October 30th and 31st is a Halloween-focused offering with a haunted boat ride at dusk, a festive buffet with spooky dishes, costume opportunities, and a prize — a $50 dining gift certificate — for a stand-out costume. Reservations are recommended to secure spots for these popular experiences.
All descriptions above are based on the Lodge's published offerings and event details for the specified dates.
Location
Wakulla Springs, FL
Scenic waterfront setting
Tours Offered
4
Boat tours, brunch, themed events
Family Friendly
Yes
Suitable for families
Seasonal Events
October
Halloween and themed evenings
Book River Boat Tours, Boat and Brunch, Murder Mystery nights, or the Creature Cruise — limited seating for waterfront dining and themed evenings, reserve early.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with binoculars for distant sightings.
Wear sun protection
Sun, hats, and sunscreen are recommended since the boat offers little shade.
Wear comfortable clothing
Dress in lightweight, quick-drying clothes suitable for sitting on the boat for extended periods.
Bring a camera
Capture the scenic landscapes and wildlife in high quality to remember your trip.
Sun hat
Keeps the sun off your face during long hours on the water.
summer
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sun exposure, especially during afternoon trips.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for sudden rain showers or cooler temperatures.
spring|fall|winter
Natural sunscreen (e.g., biodegradable lotion)
Eco-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and preserve wildlife habitats.
summer