As Central Florida natives, we feel as if it is our duty to tell our guests about all the local spots they shouldn’t miss during their stay at Sweetwater Branch Inn. One of our favorite places to go is Poe Springs Park! This gorgeous area is surrounded by expansive greenery, natural springs, and playgrounds. It’s perfect for the whole family to enjoy!
Florida is filled with countless other gorgeous outdoor areas to explore like Poe Springs Park. For a list of local, handpicked recommendations, take a look at our complimentary Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to plan the trip of a lifetime! Not only will it save you from hours of research, you’ll have access to all of the best things to do in the area. Get your copy today!
4 of the Best Things to Do at Poe Springs Park
Enjoy the Natural Springs
The natural springs of Poe Springs Park pump about 45 million gallons of cool, clear water each day! You can get to the basin of Poe Springs from the Santa Fe River or the boardwalk that is located about 1,000 feet from the parking area. The deepest part of this refreshing pool is 25 feet deep, but there are many shallow spots that make it perfect for kids. People love to come here to swim, snorkel, and splash around on a hot day!
Explore the Greenery
If you’re looking for a great place to hike, look no further than Poe Springs Park! This expansive area is the perfect showcase of Florida’s greenery. Begin your journey from the parking lot onto the boardwalk that brings you to Poe Springs. There, you will find the nature trail next to the restrooms. You’ll be taken through forests past floodplains and cypress knees, and you’ll even have the chance to see boulders with fossilized shells along the way! There are benches to rest on; they’re also the perfect place to pause in the quiet and enjoy the nature around you.
Have a Picnic
Whether you are spending the entire day in Poe Springs Park or a looking for a great place to eat outdoors, this is a great area to enjoy a picnic! There are 
pavilions in the park with tables and grills. You are sure to see a family or two enjoying freshly made burgers and sandwiches! There are not picnic tables located directly next to the springs, but you can always grab a blanket or portable chairs to enjoy a meal with a view.
Play in the Outdoors
Not only are there hiking trails and swimming areas in Poe Springs Park, there are also multiple areas for children to play! Kids can enjoy a playground, and people of all ages can enjoy the fields. You’ll find a softball field, volleyball court, and soccer field. Kick a ball around or challenge your friends to a game!
Where to Stay
Looking to experience all the beauty that Gainesville has to offer? Start with a stay at Sweetwater Branch Inn! Our elegant Victorian homes and cozy cottages are the perfect place to relax after a day in the sun at Poe Springs Park. Continue to enjoy the outdoors in our gorgeous gardens and saltwater pool, or use our prime location to bike to downtown! Begin your planning by browsing our accommodations. We look forward to seeing you!