Rainbow Springs facts for kids
Rainbow Springs, once called Blue Spring, is a huge natural spring in Marion County, Florida, USA. It's located a few miles north of Dunnellon. This amazing spring is the main feature of Rainbow Springs State Park. It's the fourth-largest spring in Florida, releasing over 490 million gallons of water every day! Rainbow Springs is where the Rainbow River begins, and this river eventually flows into the Withlacoochee River.
History of Rainbow Springs
The Seminole Indians originally knew Rainbow Springs as Wekiwa Creek.
From Blue Spring to Tourist Spot
Until the 1930s, the spring was called Blue Spring. But then, people wanted to turn it into a fun place for tourists. They changed the name to Rainbow Springs to make it sound more special. There were many other springs in Florida named "Wekiwa" or "Blue."
To attract visitors, Rainbow Springs offered unique experiences. Just like Silver Springs, Florida had glass-bottom boats, Rainbow Springs had "submarine" tours. On these tours, people could sit below the water and look out through windows to see the underwater world.
In the 1950s, "mermaid shows" were also a big hit. Performers dressed as mermaids would swim and entertain guests. While the tourist attraction at Rainbow Springs closed in the 1970s, mermaid shows still happen daily at Weeki Wachee Springs.
Protecting the River and Springs
The entire Rainbow River was recognized as a special natural area in 1972. It was named a Registered Natural Landmark. Later, in 1986, it became an Aquatic Preserve. In 1987, it was called an "Outstanding Florida Waterway."
The land around the springs stayed privately owned for a long time. But in 1990, the State of Florida bought the springs. This saved them from being built on and helped protect their natural beauty. Many volunteers from the local community worked hard to help open Rainbow Springs State Park for everyone to enjoy.
