Florida’s Alligator-Infested Rivers: Can You Swim In the Rainbow River?

American alligators are the only species that can be found natively in the United States (and also in Mexico’s Gulf Coast waters). These ferocious creatures are famous for roaming around the rivers in the South. Although they are not quite dangerous to humans, they have been known to attack them if provoked. That is why swimming in the rivers in the South can be a dangerous ordeal for people. Florida is famous for having alligator-infested rivers in its midst. When it comes to the Rainbow River, can you swim there? Let’s find out if you can swim in the Rainbow River.

About the Rainbow River

The Rainbow River is a 5.7-mile long waterway that is located in Dunnellon, FL. It is about 20 miles from Ocala and 100 miles northwest of Orlando. According to scientific evidence, the Rainbow River has had human settlements for about 10,000 years. In 1972, it was designated as a Registered Natural landmark, and in 1986, it was designated as an Aquatic Preserve. At the head of the Rainbow River is Rainbow Springs State Park, which is a popular tourist destination. Rainbow Springs State Park has it all for tourists — camping, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, bird-watching, and more.

Can You Swim in the Rainbow River?

Now to answer the question you’ve been waiting for. The simple answer is yes. Because the state park is located at the head of the Rainbow River, it’s a popular tourist destination for families of all kinds and sizes. Although you can swim in the Rainbow River, alligators are inside these waters. There have been close calls with people over the years. Furthermore, Dunnellon officials have cautioned people in the surrounding areas to be careful when in the Rainbow River and the surrounding areas, as alligators have been known to walk around on land.

Alligators in Florida Rivers

Alligators are notorious for loving the rivers in Florida. If you think that the Rainbow River is the most alligator-infested river in the state, think again. The number one spot belongs to the St. John’s River, although Lake Jesup, which is along the middle basin of the river, is the body of water with the most alligators — a whopping 13,000! So, exercise some caution when traversing Floridian rivers and lakes.

Conclusion

And there you have it, although you can swim in the Rainbow River, it is an alligator-infested one. You should always be careful when splashing around in the river because of the potential danger of having an alligator swim toward you. The bottom line is that using cautionary measures when swimming in a body of water is always the smartest idea. The last thing you want to become is alligator food, just like Captain Hook!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © David Radzieta/iStock via Getty Images