Another great thing about Florida is that it is home to a river that flows north! Impossible? Not if the river’s headwaters are only 27 feet higher elevation than where it ends at the Atlantic Ocean. Flowing 310 miles, the St. Johns River is the longest in Florida, from its headwaters at Blue Cypress Lake to emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The St. Johns River Watershed Basin covers an astounding 16% of the state. That’s almost 9,000 square miles! The Timucuan Indians first named the St. Johns River, “Wekiva,” meaning “a river of lakes,” because there are nearly 3,500 lakes in the Watershed. See it for yourself when you relocate to Orlando.
The St. John’s River Basin is divided into three parts: Upper, Middle, and Lower. Each section has its own natural beauty and unique features, much like Orlando real estate.
Beginning at the headwaters in the upper basin is Blue Cypress Lake. This portion of the river has many swamps and shallow lakes, making it difficult to navigate because of the lack of a central channel. At this location, the river’s flow is fed by other springs and rainwater.
Looking at the middle basin, we see that it is where the St. John’s River widens after joining with the Econlockhatchee River. The Econ River is one of three major tributaries of this mighty river. Water from the tributary causes the current in the St. Johns River to speed up. In the area, this, plus more than 100 springs, contribute 30% of the river’s flow. During the winter months, upwards of a third of the manatee population in Florida seeks shelter at Blue Springs and its 72-degree water. The middle basin also runs through the Ocala National Forest and Lake George.
The lower basin starts at the point where the Ocklawaha River joins the St. John’s River. Near Clay County, home to Black Creek and Doctor’s Lake, the width averages two miles. Strong tides and heavy industry predominately characterize this section of the river. Its broader and straighter river channel and spans of estuaries make it one of the richest ecosystems on the planet! Once the river meets Jacksonville, it turns east and empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
Now that a bit of geography is complete, here are some things you can do on the fabulous St. John’s River. According to local anglers, there’s no place better for boating and fishing than along the St. Johns River in Florida. You’ll want to check out these famous fishing spots for relocation in Orlando.
Our first great spot for boating and fishing is Lake George near Astor, Florida. Lake George is the state’s second-largest lake and is full of bass. It’s the perfect place to plan a day fishing trip with your Orlando realtor.
Visiting a freshwater spring is a must! The crystal water stays consistently 72 degrees all year and is a fantastic place to snorkel and swim! The most popular spring on St. Johns is Silver Glen Springs.
Do you like to boat and camp too? You’ll do both when moving to Orlando. Have the best of both worlds when you visit the Juniper Springs Recreation Area. It’s one of the oldest recreation areas in the country. It offers an onsite campground and hiking trails along the St. Johns River.
If you love spotting manatees while enjoying pristine scenery, then Blue Springs State Park should be on your list of must-dos. Manatees hang out in the springs during the colder months because the water stays a constant 72 degrees. The park also has canoeing, fishing, and opportunities to snorkel.
De Leon Springs State Park has boat ramps, canoe, and kayak rentals. This spring also offers grills, picnic tables, and a playground area. You don’t want to miss breakfast at the historic Sugar Mill Restaurant for the best pancakes you’ll ever eat, created by you and a realtor in Orlando at your table.
Just a 45-minute ride from Astor, Florida, is Rodman Reservoir. This man-made reservoir, also known as Lake Ocklawaha, is a dam reservoir and a bass fishery for anglers.
Serious about relocating to Orlando? Don’t wait too long because, just like the beautiful St. John’s River, the real estate in Orlando is a sight to behold.