Blue Spring State Park, located in Orange City, just 35 mi (56 km) north of Orlando, is best known for its magnificent manatees. But its fresh and clean water bodies also attract millions of spectacular fireflies. The sight of them glowing in the dark tropical forest is a fairy-tale-like experience that is only available for a couple of weeks starting from mid-March when fireflies are looking for mates.
Lights at Night, Blue Spring State Park
At this time, Blue Spring State Park holds its annual Lights at Night event. The park stays open for extended hours offering a stunning sight of glowing lightning bugs starting from dusk. There is a designated trail for that, and attendees need to purchase a special pass to stay at the park in the after hours. Tours leave from The Thursby House, starting at 8 pm.
Other firefly places in Florida
Blue Spring Park is not the only firefly site in Florida. However, that's where they show up in great numbers every year. In some years, fireflies are also abundant near water bodies in the Jacksonville area, Northern Florida. Fanning Springs State Park, with its old forest around the Suwanee River, is another perfect spot for fireflies that are most abundant here in April.
Practical info
When is the best time to see fireflies at Blue Spring State Park?
Mid-to-late March is optimal to view the fireflies at Blue Spring State Park. The park's annual Lights at Night event also takes place during this season, wherein the fireflies' glowing spectacle can be witnessed at dusk. An exclusive pass purchase is required to stay in the park after-hours and attend the event. Show more
What is the location of Blue Spring State Park?
Situated in Central Florida 35 miles north of Orlando, Blue Spring State Park is located in Orange City. The park's most notable attraction is its manatee population, and it also houses a crystal clear freshwater spring and various wildlife, including fireflies during springtime. Show more
Do fireflies only inhabit clean water environments?
Fireflies prefer fresh and clear water reservoirs and are commonly found around them, including Blue Spring State Park. The fireflies spend their majority life underground, and they resurface during adulthood to look for mates. The fireflies can only be seen during mid-to-late March, the season when they actively seek a partner. Show more
During which season is the Lights at Night event held in Blue Spring State Park?
The Lights at Night event transpires during springtime's mid-March to April window when the fireflies are active. Visitors can witness the fireflies' natural illuminating beauty in their habitat through the wildlife tour. The tours depart from The Thursby House, commencing at 8 PM. An exclusive pass is required to stay in the park after-hours to attend the event. Show more
Aside from Blue Spring State Park, which other places in Florida are firefly habitats?
Blue Spring State Park is the most popular destination to see fireflies in Florida. However, the area around Jacksonville in Northern Florida is also home to specific firefly hotspots, mainly around water bodies. Fanning Springs State Park, located beside Suwanee River, is also an excellent firefly habitat, with a concentration of fireflies in April. Show more
