Sanlando Springs, Florida facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sanlando Springs
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![]() Flooding of Sanlando Springs after Hurricane Frances in 2004
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Country | United States |
State | Florida |
County | Seminole |
Elevation | 56 ft (17 m) |
Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
Area code(s) | 407, 689 & 321 |
GNIS feature ID | 290643 |
Sanlando Springs is a natural freshwater spring and a small community in Seminole County, Florida, United States. It is located just west of Longwood, Florida. The spring was first called Hoosier Springs by an early settler named Ingram Fletcher. Later, it was renamed Sanlando because it sits between the cities of Sanford and Orlando.
For many years, from the 1930s to 1970, Sanlando Springs was a popular place for fun and relaxation. It was a private park where anyone could visit by paying an entrance fee.
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What Happened to Sanlando Springs?
In 1970, the land around Sanlando Springs was sold. It was turned into a private neighborhood called The Springs. This meant it was no longer a public park.
Is Sanlando Springs Open to the Public?
Today, the spring is located behind the clubhouse of The Springs, which is a gated community. This means it's a private area. Even though the St. Johns River Water Management District helps manage the spring, it is now only for the people who live in The Springs community and their guests. It is not open to everyone anymore.
Exploring the Main Spring Area
The main swimming area at Sanlando Springs used to have a diving platform. This platform was about 6 feet (1.8 meters) above the water. However, the community board decided to remove it.
What Can You Do at the Spring?
There is a floating dock in the main spring, about 40 feet (12.2 meters) from the shore. Visitors can swim out to this dock. The water from the main spring flows into the Wekiva River. From there, it continues into the larger St. Johns River. Sanlando Springs, along with other nearby springs like Rock Springs, Wekiwa Springs, and Palm Springs, are the starting points for the Wekiva River.
Understanding Spring Flooding
Sometimes, when there is a lot of rain, like during the 2005 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the springs can flood a lot. During these times, some parts of the spring might become unsafe.
What Are Sulfur Springs?
Close to the main spring, there are several sulfur springs. These springs usually have a bad smell. Because of the smell and the chance of seeing wild animals like alligators, these sulfur springs are generally not safe for swimming.