Summertime means fun and relaxation. As long as you can find a way to make the sweltering heat bearable, that is. While there are plenty of water activities to enjoy throughout the state, we have something that the whole family can enjoy together. The best lazy river in Florida happens to be an excellent place to set up shop on a hot summer day. Read on to discover one of Florida's most beautiful outdoor destinations where you can truly get away from it all.

Nothing says relaxation quite like a lazy river. But we're not talking about the man-made water park variety. Florida is home to some incredible natural lazy rivers, where you can float for hours.

One of the best and most well-known lazy rivers can be found at Ichetucknee Springs State Park. The park is located just northwest of Fort White in North Florida.

The crystal-clear water of the lazy river at Ichetucknee Springs remains a cool 72 degrees year-round, making it perfect for those sweltering summer days. Tall trees provide shade and lush scenery along the banks. It's easy to see why it has earned the distinction as a National Natural Landmark.

Visitors can bring their own tubes or rent one from vendors near the park. Just make sure that your tube isn't more than five feet wide so you can navigate some narrow spots along the run.

Tubing season at the park begins Memorial Day Weekend when the north entrance opens. Visitors can take a relaxing float down the river surrounded by beautiful Florida wildlife.

The park is on the Great Florida Birding Trail, so remember to keep an eye out for native birds, including owls, turkeys, woodpeckers, and a variety of water birds. You'll be able to see why it's such a popular park for birdwatching.

If you work up an appetite along the way, don't worry. At the south entrance, there is a concession stand with burgers, sandwiches, treats, and more. There's also a tram to take you back to the north entrance.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park also offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking, as well as tables and grills for picnics.

If you can't wait until Memorial Day weekend to check out this lazy river, you can still go tubing, but only from the park's south entrance. The south gate is closed during the summer Florida tubing season, so after Memorial Day, you should start at the north entrance. Entry is $6 per vehicle, but you will also need $5 for tram wristbands, which are sold at the concession stand.

Address: 12087 SW U.S. Highway 27, Fort White, FL 32038

Hours of Operation: Open every day from 8:00 a.m. until sundown.

Have you ever gone tubing at Ichetucknee Springs State Park? What's your favorite way to spend a hot summer day in Florida?