Planning a trip to Blue Spring State Park just got a little more structured. The beloved Orange City park will begin requiring day-use reservations starting July 15, giving visitors a new step to complete before making the drive.

For those eager to lock in their spot, the reservation window opens on July 8, leaving a short but workable lead time to plan ahead. The change affects day-use access to the park, which draws crowds year-round for its crystal-clear spring run and warm-water refuge for manatees.

Blue Spring is one of Florida's most visited state parks, particularly during winter months when hundreds of manatees gather in its 72-degree waters. The reservation program appears aimed at managing the steady demand on the park's natural resources and infrastructure.

Visitors heading out after July 15 should make sure to secure a reservation before arriving, as walk-up access will no longer be guaranteed. This story was reported by WFTV.