One of the Closest Natural Springs to Polk County: Lithia Springs
If you live in Polk County and have been wanting to check out one of Florida’s natural springs without committing to a long drive, Lithia Springs Park is one of the most convenient options.
Located in the small town of Lithia in Hillsborough County, this spring is just under 40 minutes from Mulberry and typically less than an hour from Lakeland. That makes it one of the closest true spring experiences for Central Florida residents who don’t want to head hours north.
What makes Lithia Springs stand out isn’t just the proximity—it’s how easy and affordable it is to visit.
When I went, admission was only $2 per vehicle to enter the park, and an additional $2 per person if you want to swim in the spring itself. Compared to many of Florida’s more well-known springs, that’s about as low-cost as it gets.
The spring feeds into a designated swimming area where you can cool off in clear, mineral-rich water. The park also has shaded areas, picnic spots, walking trails, and open space, making it a solid option whether you’re going for a quick swim or planning to spend a few hours outdoors.
One thing to know before you go: Lithia Springs can get busy, especially on weekends and during the hotter months. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, earlier in the day is your best bet.
It’s also a bit more “park-style” compared to some of the larger, more natural-looking springs further north. So if your expectation is something like a remote, untouched spring in the woods, this isn’t that. But if you’re looking for convenience, affordability, and a quick escape from the heat, it delivers.
For Polk County residents, this is one of those spots that’s close enough to visit without overthinking it. No long road trip, no major planning—just an easy day trip when you want to get outside and cool off.
If you’ve never been, it’s worth checking out. And if you have, you already know how nice it is to have something like this so close to home.
