Things to Do in Dunnellon
Just 20 miles west of Ocala, Dunnellon sits at the confluence of the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers. Springs, paddling trails, fishing, and a walkable historic district make it one of the best day trips in Marion County.
Dunnellon, Florida, is a small river town of roughly 2,000 residents that punches well above its weight when it comes to outdoor recreation and Old Florida charm. Situated about 20 miles west of Ocala on US-41, Dunnellon sits at the point where the Rainbow River flows into the Withlacoochee River, giving the town access to two of central Florida's most scenic waterways. The Rainbow River is fed entirely by Rainbow Springs, one of the largest first-magnitude springs in the state, pumping out roughly 400 million gallons of crystal-clear, 72-degree water every day.
For Ocala residents, Dunnellon has long been the go-to destination for tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Rainbow Springs State Park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for its swimming area, tubing run, nature trails, and manicured gardens complete with man-made waterfalls built during the park's days as a private attraction. Downstream, KP Hole County Park and Blue Run Park provide additional access points for paddlers looking to explore the river at their own pace.
Beyond the water, Dunnellon's historic Boomtown District tells the story of a town that once boomed during Florida's phosphate mining era in the late 1800s. Today, about 70 restored buildings house antique shops, art studios, and local eateries. Grumbles House, set in a 1908 home, is one of the most recognizable landmarks, combining an antique market with Sweeties' Cafe housed in a converted World War II barracks building next door.
The Withlacoochee River adds another dimension to Dunnellon's appeal. Stretching 76 miles across central Florida, it is ranked second in the state for TrophyCatch bass and draws anglers from across the Southeast. The river also supports a 76-mile paddling trail that passes through cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, and some of the most undeveloped stretches of river left in Florida.
For those who prefer wheels over paddles, the Dunnellon Trail offers a 2.4-mile paved path built on an old railroad bed that runs alongside the Rainbow River. It connects to the larger Withlacoochee State Trail system, one of Florida's premier rail-trail corridors. Whether you are looking for a morning paddle, an afternoon of antique shopping, or a full day of springs and trails, Dunnellon is an easy and rewarding trip from Ocala.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Must VisitOne of Florida's largest first-magnitude springs, Rainbow Springs maintains a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. The park offers a seasonal tubing run from March through September ($25 per tube plus $2 park entry), a year-round swimming area, kayaking access, and beautifully maintained gardens with man-made waterfalls. Nature trails wind through the park's hardwood hammocks and along the spring run. Camping is available with both tent and RV sites.
KP Hole County Park
The most popular year-round kayak and paddleboard launch point on the Rainbow River. From KP Hole, paddlers head upriver toward the headspring through some of the clearest water in Florida. The park charges $10.75 per person for entry and $10 for a kayak or SUP launch. Expect to see manatees in cooler months and abundant fish and turtles throughout the year. Picnic areas and restrooms are available on site.
Blue Run Park
FreeA free alternative for kayak launching on the Rainbow River, though the launch is only open from October through March. Blue Run Park also features walking trails and a scenic boardwalk along the river that are open year-round. The park is quieter than KP Hole and offers a more peaceful setting for picnics and nature walks. During launch season, it is an excellent starting point for downstream paddling.
Withlacoochee River
Stretching 76 miles across central Florida, the Withlacoochee River offers one of the state's best paddling trails and is ranked second in Florida for TrophyCatch bass. The river supports excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bream, and catfish, and its cypress-lined corridors provide some of the most scenic paddling in the region. Multiple access points near Dunnellon make it easy to plan half-day or full-day trips.
Grumbles House Antiques & Sweeties' Cafe
One of Dunnellon's most beloved landmarks, Grumbles House occupies a 1908 home filled with antiques, gifts, and collectibles spread across multiple rooms. Next door, Sweeties' Cafe operates out of a converted World War II barracks building, serving sandwiches, soups, desserts, and specialty coffees. The property also includes a garden area and gift shops. It is a favorite stop for anyone exploring the Boomtown District.
Historic Downtown (Boomtown District)
Dunnellon's downtown has been a designated US Historic District since 1988, with approximately 70 restored buildings from the town's phosphate mining heyday. The walkable Boomtown District features antique shops, art galleries, cafes, and small boutiques housed in turn-of-the-century buildings. The annual Boomtown Day Festival celebrates the town's mining heritage with live music, food vendors, and community events. It is a window into Old Florida that feels genuinely untouched by modern development.
Dunnellon Trail
FreeA 2.4-mile paved trail built on an old railroad bed that runs alongside the Rainbow River. The flat, shaded path is ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling, and it connects to the larger Withlacoochee State Trail system. The trail offers views of the river and passes through canopy-covered stretches that keep it cool even in summer. It is family-friendly and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Dunnellon from Ocala?
Dunnellon is approximately 20 miles west of Ocala, about a 30-minute drive via US-41 or SR-40. The route passes through rolling countryside and horse farms, making it a scenic drive. Most Ocala residents treat Dunnellon as an easy day trip destination, especially for access to Rainbow Springs and the Rainbow River.
When is tubing season at Rainbow Springs State Park?
Tubing at Rainbow Springs State Park runs from March through September. Tubes cost $25 per person with a separate $2 per person park entrance fee. The tubing run takes you downstream through crystal-clear spring water. Outside of tubing season, you can still swim in the spring-fed swimming area year-round. Arrive early on weekends as the park reaches capacity quickly during summer months.
What is the difference between KP Hole and Blue Run Park for kayaking?
KP Hole County Park is open year-round and costs $10.75 per person with a $10 kayak or SUP launch fee. You paddle upriver toward the headspring through crystal-clear water. Blue Run Park is free but only open for kayak launching from October through March. Blue Run offers walking trails and a scenic boardwalk along the river. KP Hole is the better choice for summer paddling since Blue Run closes its launch during the warmer months.
Is the Withlacoochee River good for fishing?
The Withlacoochee River is ranked second in the state of Florida for TrophyCatch bass, making it one of the best fishing destinations in central Florida. The 76-mile paddling trail offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bream, and catfish. Bank fishing access is available at several parks, and kayak fishing is popular along the quieter stretches of the river.
What is the Dunnellon Boomtown District?
The Boomtown District is Dunnellon's historic downtown, listed as a US Historic District since 1988. It contains approximately 70 restored buildings dating back to the town's phosphate mining boom in the late 1800s. Today you will find antique shops, cafes, art galleries, and small boutiques. The annual Boomtown Day Festival celebrates this mining heritage with live music, food, and community events.
Can you swim at Rainbow Springs year-round?
Yes, the swimming area at Rainbow Springs State Park is open year-round. The spring water maintains a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit regardless of the season, making it comfortable even in winter. The tubing run is seasonal (March through September), but the main swimming area, nature trails, gardens, and waterfall areas are accessible every day of the year.
Plan Your Dunnellon Day Trip
From spring-fed rivers and scenic trails to antique shops and historic streetscapes, Dunnellon is one of the best day trips from Ocala.