Lithia Springs
Swimming hole in Tampa, Florida · Spring
Guide to Lithia Springs near Tampa. Details on swimming, facilities, directions, and safety for a family-friendly Florida spring visit.
About Lithia Springs
Tucked into the green heart of Hillsborough County, Lithia Springs is one of Florida's most accessible and genuinely refreshing natural swimming destinations. Fed by a natural freshwater spring, the pool maintains a cool, steady temperature year-round — a welcome contrast to the thick, humid air that blankets the Tampa Bay region through most of the year. The water is crystal clear, tinted with the faint blue-green hue characteristic of Florida's limestone-filtered springs, and the surrounding landscape is draped in lush subtropical vegetation that provides deep, cooling shade along the banks.
The Setting and Landscape
You arrive to find a site that feels genuinely unspoiled despite its easy access from Brandon and Tampa. Tall oaks and cypress trees lean over the spring, their canopies filtering the Florida sunlight into shifting patterns on the water's surface. The spring itself carries a mild mineral quality — a nod to the lithia minerals that gave this place its name and once drew visitors seeking the supposed health benefits of its waters. That history adds a quiet, distinctive character to the site. Birdsong is a constant backdrop, and patient visitors often spot wildlife moving through the vegetation at the water's edge, making this as rewarding for photographers as it is for swimmers.
Swimming and the Water
Stepping into the spring, you feel the immediate, almost electric cool of the water against your skin — a sensation that feels especially dramatic on a sweltering Florida afternoon. The water is fed directly from the underground aquifer, so it remains consistently cool regardless of the season, hovering in the low-to-mid 70s Fahrenheit. Clarity is a hallmark of natural springs like this one, and you can expect to see clearly to the sandy bottom. The swimming area is family-friendly, and the easy access means visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the water without difficulty. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise appropriate caution, particularly with young children near the water.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Fall and winter months for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; spring for blooming flowers; summer for a refreshing escape from the heat.
- Access Easy access with paved roads leading directly to the springs; suitable for all ages and skill levels.
- Facilities Toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables available; camping permitted on-site for extended stays.
- Camping nearby At site
Highlights & features
- Refreshing freshwater spring
- Shaded by lush vegetation
- Camping available on-site
- Family-friendly swimming areas
- Wildlife and photography opportunities
- Crystal-clear waters fed by a natural spring
- Historical significance tied to lithia mineral content
- Blend of accessibility and unspoiled natural beauty
How to get there
Driving Directions to Lithia Springs, Florida If you're traveling from Brandon (located south of Tampa), follow these step-by-step directions to reach Lithia Springs:
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Start in Brandon
Begin by heading east on State Route 60 (SR-60). Drive East on SR-60 Continue on SR-60 for approximately 15 miles. Turn Right onto State Route 39 (SR-39) When you reach SR-39, turn right and head south toward the town of Lithia. Continue to Lithia Springs Drive about 3 miles west of Lithia to reach the vicinity of the springs.
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Cross the Alafia River Bridge
After crossing the Alafia River Bridge, continue southeast for 0.6 miles on Pinecrest-Lithia Road. Turn Right onto the Paved Access Road Look for a paved road on your right (heading west). Turn onto this road and continue driving for 1.4 miles.
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Arrive at Lithia
Springs Follow the paved road to the designated parking area near Lithia Springs.
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Additional Information
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Parking
Ample parking is available near the springs. Be sure to park only in designated areas. Trailheads and Final Approach From the parking area, there are clear signs and paths leading directly to the springs. Follow these marked trails to access the swimming area. Landmarks The Alafia River Bridge is a key landmark to watch for as you approach the turn onto the paved access road. Enjoy your visit to Lithia Springs!
Plan your visit
Lithia Springs sits within easy reach of both Brandon and Tampa, making it a practical day trip or weekend escape from the urban core of the Tampa Bay area. Pack a picnic, bring water shoes for the spring entry, and plan to linger — this is a place that rewards those who slow down and let the natural setting wash over them.
Lithia Springs sits within easy reach of both Brandon and Tampa, making it a practical day trip or weekend escape from the urban core of the Tampa Bay area. Pack a picnic, bring water shoes for the spring entry, and plan to linger — this is a place that rewards those who slow down and let the natural setting wash over them.
Access & fees
No entrance fee is indicated. Facilities include toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables. Park only in designated areas. The water conditions (temperature, clarity) are not specified.
No entrance fee is indicated. Facilities include toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables. Park only in designated areas. The water conditions (temperature, clarity) are not specified.
Frequently asked questions
Is LITHIA SPRINGS free to visit?
LITHIA SPRINGS may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at LITHIA SPRINGS?
Yes, LITHIA SPRINGS is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is LITHIA SPRINGS?
LITHIA SPRINGS is a spring located in FL, near TAMPA. Guide to Lithia Springs near Tampa. Details on swimming, facilities, directions, and safety for a family-friendly Florida spring visit.
When is the best time to visit LITHIA SPRINGS?
The best time to visit LITHIA SPRINGS is Fall and winter months for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; spring for blooming flowers; summer for a refreshing escape from the heat.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at LITHIA SPRINGS?
Reported facilities at LITHIA SPRINGS include: Toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables available; camping permitted on-site for extended stays.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near LITHIA SPRINGS?
At site
Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Historically tied to the Alafia River and Florida’s early settlers, Lithia Springs reflects the significance of freshwater sources in shaping communities.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Preserve the delicate ecosystem by avoiding littering and minimizing disturbance to wildlife.