Roger's Park — Attraction in Spring Hill

Easiest way to get your dog out of the Weeki Wachee waters without having to deal directly with the State Park. Well mannered dogs can enjoy being on water vessels and have a good time. They can not actually actually at Roger's Park, so if your not launching from there, the dogs can't attend your day. The park itself is set up for a day at the "beach". There's a sandy area leading to the spring which is roped off showing where the intended perimeter is. There are restrooms on site. There's no food options here and you may eventually need to pay for parking. The parking machines were removed after Hurricane season in 2023, but have not been replaced so as of this review in September 2024, it is free to park, however you need to be there early to get a spot. Limited spots are available in 3 rows and a 4th further off row. There's a separate row for boat trailers. There's a boat ramp and kayak launch spot. Do not park outside the gates, you will be quickly towed. If you visit the park, enjoy your day there. If you go down the river, hang all rights for the full spring experience. When you've had enough, turn around and hang all lefts to get out. Manatees can be seen all year round but they like when the weather cools down because the water feels warmer to them, so in those months especially, but really all the time, be mindful to look for them so sightsee and if you're in a boat look to avoid hurting them. New rules: don't dock your vessel, don't tie to anything. You will be ticketed, officers patrol the spring daily. If you want to swim, hang off your vessel or find an area your boat can be, but not disrupt nature. Bring your own food and water in containers. Try to avoid plastics as they can easily get ripped and fall in the water, along with water no-no's such as 4, 6 and 8 pack plastic rings. If you lose trash, pick it up. The boat ramp and kayak launch area constantly has people looking for their items that fell in. Do yourself a favor and bring a waterproof container for phones and keys. If an item is important or sentimental to you and you can skip bringing it, do that instead. Otherwise, just know that the water isn't always clear to the bottom and the consistency of the bottom can make it hard to find things as they can easily get...

This park does have bathrooms and outdoor showers and a place to swim in the river. The parking is limited and is 10 dollars. You often have to wait for a spot and it can be a bit hectic if there is the typical crowd of boaters and kayakers. Most of the people who visit this park are using it as a means for gaining access to the river for boats or kayaks.

The swimming area is often quite crowded and there is not a tree in sight. There are sandy beach areas but then you have a concrete sea wall between the sand and water. There are just a few covered tables. This is a very busy area, but we will go on occasion just to get in the cool water for a few minutes, enjoy the show put on by all the locals and just be amazed at the constant stream of kayaks and powerboats moving along the river.

This river is stunning, but it is so overused that it can be difficult to enjoy. This is a major spot of congestion along the river, so you also get a good bit of sand, and such kicked up into the water at this area.

If you just want to cool down for a bit in a nice cool river, go here and enjoy a dip, the swimming area is roped off from boats. There is little to no enforcement of any rules so go with the "Florida Rules" mentality and bring your lucky rabbit's foot for hopefully getting a parking spot. We take our swimwear and a change of clothes. We swim, shower off, dress and head elsewhere to enjoy a picnic. It can be tricky to find a way onto this river, so this is the only option I know of. ...

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A Lifetime of Memories at Rodgers Park!

I've been visiting Rodgers Park since I was 9 years old, and now, at 30, I'm still creating amazing memories here! This park holds a special place in my heart, and I'm so grateful to have it in my life.

The water is stunning, and the park offers a boat launch and kayak launch, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. Plus, its connection to the Weeki Wachee River is a bonus!

But what really makes Rodgers Park special is the incredible wildlife that calls it home. I've been lucky enough to spot dolphins and manatees on multiple occasions, and it's truly magical.

❌🛑⭕️PLEASE BE AWARE:⭕️❌🛑Due to the presence of these amazing creatures, it's essential to exercise caution and respect their habitat. If you're boating or kayaking, PLEASE SHUT OFF YOUR MOTORS when approaching or near these animals. Let's work together to protect and preserve this incredible ecosystem.

However, I do have one caveat: parking can be a challenge. You need to arrive super early to secure a spot, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Despite the parking issue, Rodgers Park remains one of my favorite places to visit. The natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and nostalgic value make it a must-visit destination.

If you're looking for a wonderful outdoor experience, add Rodgers Park...