Sanlando Springs is a historic second-magnitude spring in Seminole County, Florida, located near Longwood along the Wekiva River system. Today the spring sits within a private gated community, but for decades it was one of Central Florida’s best-known swimming destinations and a classic example of “Old Florida” spring culture.
The spring forms a large circular swimming basin with exceptionally clear water flowing from limestone openings beneath the surface. Its outflow eventually joins the Little Wekiva and Wekiva River system. Although public access is no longer available, Sanlando Springs remains an important historic and hydrologic feature within the region’s spring network.
History
Early settlers reportedly called the spring Hoosier Springs, a name connected to pioneer families who settled in the area during the late 1800s. Over time, the name evolved into Sanlando Springs, combining “San” from Sanford and “lando” from Orlando to reflect its location between the two growing Central Florida cities.
Beginning in the 1930s, Sanlando Springs developed into a popular privately operated recreation park. During the mid-20th century, thousands of visitors came to swim in the cool spring water, picnic beneath the cypress trees, and enjoy a relaxed natural setting before the era of major theme parks and large-scale suburban development.
Historic photos and postcards show crowded swimming areas, floating docks, diving platforms, and water slides that made Sanlando Springs a beloved summer destination for generations of Central Florida families. Many longtime residents still remember spending entire days at the spring during the 1950s through 1970s.
In 1970, the property was sold and redeveloped into The Springs, a gated residential community built around the spring basin. The spring itself remains active today, though it is now restricted to residents and guests of the community rather than the general public.
Sanlando Springs is also part of the broader Wekiva River headwaters system, alongside nearby springs such as Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs, and Palm Springs. Together, these springs help support one of Central Florida’s most important river ecosystems.
Nearby Springs
- Wekiwa Springs
- Rock Springs
- Palm Springs
- Island Spring
- Elder Spring
Related Historic Springs
- Kissengen Spring
- Warm Mineral Springs
- Manatee Mineral Spring
- Socrum Spring
Photo courtesy of FloridaMemory.com
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