Blue Run of Dunnellon Park
1 / 10

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Dunnellon, United States

A free community park offering access to the stunning Rainbow River for kayaking, tubing, and scenic nature trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Blue Run of Dunnellon Park

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free community park offering access to the stunning Rainbow River for kayaking, tubing, and scenic nature trails.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! Such a BEAUTIFUL walk!!! It's huge! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Main lot fills fast! Arrive early or use the overflow lot nearby. :car:

☀️ River Fun

Perfect for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding. Water is 72°F year-round! :ocean:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rainbow River Kayak Launch

Rainbow River Kayak Launch

Riverfront

Launch your kayak or paddleboard for a free adventure on the crystal-clear Rainbow River.

Instagram
Paved Riverfront Trail

Paved Riverfront Trail

Along Rainbow River

A gentle, paved path perfect for family strolls, biking, or a leisurely nature walk.

Instagram
Withlacoochee River Bridge

Withlacoochee River Bridge

Main trail

Enjoy scenic views and a refreshing breeze from this bridge overlooking the river.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

The main parking lot at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park fills up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to use the overflow lot a block away, which still offers easy access to the river and trails. InstagramReddit

River Ready

This park is a gateway to the Rainbow River, perfect for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding. Water temperatures are a consistent 72°F year-round, making it a refreshing escape. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Secure parking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park • This gentle family-friendly main trail is paved and loops around Rainbow River. There are no fees, but parking is limited! • • #floridatrail #floridahiking #familyhike #familyhiking #ocalaflorida #ocalamarion #rainbowriver #florida #floridalife #floridatravel #visitflorida #lovefl #roamflorida #exploreflorida #floridaliving #nature
trailtotableschool
1 likes • 149 views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Main lot fills fast! Arrive early or use the overflow lot nearby. InstagramReddit :car:

☀️ River Fun

Perfect for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding. Water is 72°F year-round! InstagramReddit :ocean:

Have you ever been to Blue Run of Dunnellon Park? We had a blast, even though it was super windy! The morning that we ended up here, we were actually trying to launch from Kings Bay to head to Three Sisters Springs, but the wind had other plans for us & I am so glad it did! Next time we camp up here we will have to try the 10 mile loop to Rainbow Springs and back! 📍19680 E Pennsylvania Ave Du...
deitaandthedingoes
33 likes • 1.1K views
#tbt kayaking the Rainbow River just outside of Gainesville. I launched from Blue Run of Dunnellon Park for free and paddled up river towards the spring head. I recommend going on a weekday as the parking lot is a small. : : : : : #kayak #kayaker #kayaking #springs #florida #floridasprings #river #outdoors #riverside #jungle #rainbowriver #rainbowsprings #paddling #stateparks #ocala #gainesville #...
kayaking_guy
113 likes • 2.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walks

Dog-friendly trails with chances to spot wildlife like gators and otters. Reddit :dog2:

🚴 Bike Paths

Connects to a network of trails, great for cycling adventures. InstagramReddit :bike:

🔥😈 Monster Push 🛹💨 March 📆 Event Breakdown 💥 🏆 Day 1 - Friday, March 28th, 2025 - Scavenger Race & Gear Raffle 📍 Location: Blue Run of Dunnellon Park, Central Florida 🕐 Time: Raffle at 1:00 PM, Race at 2:00 PM 🎯 Distance: 5K (3.1 miles) (1.55 miles out, 1.55 miles back) What is a Scavenger Race? A unique hybrid event—part skateboard race, part scavenger hunt! Prizes are hidden along the course...
markharrismedia
51 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Main lot fills fast! Arrive early or use the overflow lot nearby. InstagramReddit :car:

☀️ River Fun

Perfect for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding. Water is 72°F year-round! InstagramReddit :ocean:

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walks

Dog-friendly trails with chances to spot wildlife like gators and otters. Reddit :dog2:

🚴 Bike Paths

Connects to a network of trails, great for cycling adventures. InstagramReddit :bike:

💰 Free Admission

Enjoy the park's beauty and activities without any entry fees! Reddit :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Blue Run of Dunnellon Park's stunning natural beauty, especially the crystal-clear Rainbow River and lush cypress trees. It's a highly recommended free spot for kayaking, tubing, and nature walks, though parking can be a challenge. InstagramReddit

"We got some inner tubes and floated around the ramp area for a couple hours, and it was wonderful. Stunning scenery -- Cool, clear water, beautiful cypress everywhere, and we even spotted some river otters.

Definitely tough to get a spot in the little parking lot, but there's an overflow lot just a block away with a short footpath/trail that brings you back to the ramp area (plus access to the other, longer trails)."

Benjamin Miles

"Stopped here for a nature walk. We just walked to the bridge and back and on the way back we saw a gator chilling in the water. The bridge has nice little benches to sit on and enjoy the water and that wonderful breeze 😌 Dog friendly and everyone we passed was friendly too."

Lindsay Miller

"Went for paddleboarding...arrived at 7am as the parking are next time boot ramp filles up fast. Spent a few hours on the water...I recommend this park...have also done the hiking trails."

Malcolm Taylor

What People Like

Beautiful Rainbow River
Free admission
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is located in Dunnellon, Florida. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Many visitors use GPS navigation. Instagram+1

Yes, there is a parking lot, but it's quite small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Visitors often recommend arriving early or being prepared to use the overflow parking lot located just a block away, which still provides access to the park's amenities. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Blue Run of Dunnellon Park offers direct access to the Rainbow River, making it a popular spot for launching kayaks, paddleboards, and for tubing. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park features both paved and unpaved trails. The paved trail follows the water and is part of a larger bike path network, while unpaved trails wind through the woods. InstagramReddit

Definitely! It's a fantastic spot for a day trip, offering opportunities for water activities, nature walks, and enjoying the beautiful Florida scenery. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is completely free to enter and enjoy its amenities. This makes it a very accessible and popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Reddit

While specific hours aren't always listed, parks like this are generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours to make the most of the park's natural beauty and activities. Instagram

No advance booking is required for general park entry. However, if you plan on participating in specific events like the 'Monster Push' race, you would need to register for those separately. Instagram

Yes, the park is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for nature walks and to enjoy the outdoor spaces. Reddit

The paved trails offer a more accessible experience for those with mobility challenges. The main paved trail loops around the Rainbow River, providing scenic views. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing on the Rainbow River, hiking on paved and unpaved trails, biking, and wildlife viewing. It's also a great spot for a relaxing nature walk. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors have reported seeing a variety of wildlife, including fish, turtles, river otters, alligators, and numerous birds. The clear waters of the Rainbow River are teeming with life. Reddit

The Rainbow River is known for its clear, cool waters (around 72°F year-round) and is generally safe for swimming and water activities. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

While not explicitly detailed in all sources, community parks typically offer basic facilities. It's advisable to check local listings or be prepared with your own supplies for longer visits. Reddit

The 'Monster Push' is a unique hybrid event that combines skateboarding with a scavenger race, held annually at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park. It typically includes a 5K race and a gear raffle. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is a natural park and does not typically have on-site restaurants or food vendors. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks for a picnic. Reddit

Dunnellon and nearby Ocala offer various dining options, from casual eateries to local restaurants. It's recommended to explore these areas for post-park meals. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can bring your own food and enjoy it at designated areas or simply find a scenic spot along the trails or riverbanks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverbanks, the Withlacoochee River bridge, and the lush cypress trees offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capturing wildlife in its natural habitat is also a highlight. Reddit

Yes, the park's open spaces and river views can provide beautiful sunset backdrops, especially when combined with the natural Florida landscape. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing wildlife. For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Waterproof gear is a plus if you plan on water activities. Reddit

Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, the unique cypress trees, and the clear, flowing waters of the Rainbow River. The bridge also offers a great vantage point. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary by park and local ordinances. It's best to check with park authorities or local aviation guidelines before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is a fantastic, free destination for families. The paved main trail is perfect for strollers and little legs, offering easy access to the river for supervised water play. InstagramReddit The gentle nature of the Rainbow River makes it ideal for tubing and short floats, providing a fun and refreshing experience for children. Reddit Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site. The opportunity to spot wildlife like turtles and otters can be a huge hit with kids, adding an educational element to the visit. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is a dream come true. Admission is completely free, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and activities without any cost. Reddit You can spend hours kayaking, tubing, or simply relaxing by the river without spending a dime on entry fees. Pack a picnic lunch and snacks to save on dining expenses, making it an incredibly affordable day out. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Bring your furry friends along! Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for a walk with your canine companion. Reddit The paved and unpaved trails offer varied terrain for your dog to explore. Ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the park pristine for everyone. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Rainbow River

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park serves as a fantastic access point to the renowned Rainbow River. This natural spring-fed river is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and a consistent, refreshing temperature of 72°F year-round. Reddit Visitors can easily launch kayaks, paddleboards, and tubes directly from the park's ramp, embarking on a serene journey through lush Florida landscapes. The river is known for its abundant wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a gentle float or paddle, taking in the sights of cypress trees and the diverse aquatic life. The clarity of the water allows for excellent visibility, enhancing the experience of spotting fish, turtles, and even the occasional gar. Reddit Whether you're seeking a peaceful paddle or a refreshing dip, the Rainbow River accessible from Blue Run offers a quintessential Florida springs experience. Instagram

Trails for Every Explorer

The park offers a variety of trails catering to different preferences. The main trail is paved, providing a smooth and accessible path that loops around the Rainbow River. This trail is ideal for families with strollers, cyclists, and those who prefer a well-maintained surface. Instagram It's also noted as being part of a larger bike path network, suggesting opportunities for longer cycling excursions. Instagram

Beyond the paved path, unpaved trails wind through the surrounding woods, offering a more rustic hiking experience. These trails allow visitors to immerse themselves deeper into the natural environment of the park. Reddit Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk to a viewpoint or a longer trek, Blue Run of Dunnellon Park provides options for a refreshing outdoor adventure. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the type of trail you plan to explore. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters

Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is a haven for local wildlife, offering visitors exciting opportunities for observation. The clear waters of the Rainbow River are teeming with aquatic life, including various species of fish and turtles. Reddit Keep an eye out for schools of gar, a common sight in these pristine waters. Reddit

On land and along the riverbanks, you might encounter river otters playing or alligators basking in the sun. Reddit The park's natural setting, with its cypress trees and riverside vegetation, provides a perfect habitat for these creatures. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to observe, with numerous bird species likely to be present. Remember to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them to preserve their natural behaviors. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2