During the extreme heat wave that’s broiling the region, Volusia County offers at least two cooling escapes at its popular natural springs.

The prospect of a dip in 72-degree spring-fed waters has generated long lines of cars awaiting entry, especially on the weekends, at both Blue Spring State Park in Orange City and DeLeon Springs State Park in DeLeon Springs, just north of DeLand.

If you’re planning a weekend visit before Volusia County schools start on Monday, it would be a good idea to start early, before the parks reach capacity. An early start also is a good way to avoid the excessive midday temperatures expected to climb to the mid- to high-90s.

Here’s what you need to know about both parks:

Blue Spring State Park

Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving are available at the park. To ensure entry to the park, make a reservation for boat tours or canoe/kayak rentals for use on the St. Johns River.

The spring features a nearly circular pool about 135 feet long from north to south and 100 feet from east to west. Steep banks 10 feet to 20 feet high surround the pool except to the south, where the pool opens to the spring run.

The pool bottom is mostly limestone and sand. From the limestone ledge, the spring vent slopes precipitously to about 40 feet in depth.

Water vessels are not permitted in the swimming area from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For inquiries on boat tour times and pricing, contact Blue Spring Adventures, 386-775-0046.

How much does it cost?

Admission is $6 per vehicle (two to eight people); $4 for single-occupant vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of annual individual entrance pass.

Are there still manatees?

The peak manatee season is in the colder winter months of the year. In 2023, the daily manatee count reached a record high of 729.

What is the best time of day?

The earlier, the better.

The park is open from 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year.

The park is at 2100 W. French Ave., in Orange City.

Visit floridastateparks.org or call 386-775-3663 for more information.

DeLeon Springs State Park

Swimming is permitted from 8 a.m. until 30 minutes before the park’s sunset closing time. The swimming area is a constant 72 degrees, with depths from 18 inches to 30 feet at the spring boil.

Children and non-swimmers should be accompanied by an adult swimmer at all times and stay in the roped-off areas.

Old Sugar Mill Pancake House

Under new ownership since 2022, the longtime eatery where you can cook your own pancakes on a tabletop griddle is open for breakfast and lunch from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

Park admission is required to visit and dine at the restaurant.

What is the best time of day?

Again, the earlier the better.

During peak periods, visitors may experience long lines to enter the park, which frequently reaches capacity and may temporarily close. Closures occur intermittently and for an unknown duration of time. Pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed to enter until the park reopens.

Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset, 365 days a year.

Admission is $6 per vehicle (two to eight people); $4 for single-occupant vehicle; $4 for motorcycle; $2 for pedestrian, bicyclist and extra passengers.

The park is at 601 Ponce de Leon Blvd., in DeLeon Springs.

Visit floridastateparks.org or call 386-985-4212 for more information.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Volusia County's natural springs offer a cool heat wave activity