The Chassahowitzka River drains a vast complex of springs about fifteen minutes south of Homosassa. Most of the river runs through a national wildlife refuge of saw-grass, cypress and mangrove. There are no roads in — only kayaks and small motorboats from the county campground at the river mouth.
Rent a kayak at the campground in the morning and paddle upriver to the main spring boil. Side-springs run off in every direction, each a swimmable freshwater pool. Manatees winter in the warmer water; alligators are around but uninterested. Allow a full half-day and pack lunch.