NORTH PORT, Fla. — There is one spring in Florida, steeped in history, with water temperatures in the 80s.

What You Need To Know

  • Florida On A Tankful visits Warm Mineral Springs of North Port

  • The location is 12200 San Servando Ave., North Port

  • The regular hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily

We’re talking about the Warm Mineral Springs of North Port.

It’s where Kim Lencki works.

“When I come out here, I always feel I’m in a vintage old Florida movie,” said Lencki, the Community Partnership and Engagement Manager. “I feel like I’m stepping into another world.”

It’s 235-ish feet deep. A constant 85 degrees. And in the 1500s, thought to be the Fountain of Youth.

“Ponce De Leon had discovered the Springs,” explained Lencki.

The explorer long sought waters that would help him gain immortality.

Fast forward to today, as people are still discovering the ancient sinkhole.

“They all come for the same reason, the healing element of the spring,” said Lencki.

With minerals like magnesium potassium and sulfate, soakers believe it’s good for their health.

“And they just sit on their noodle and follow the circular motion that the springs makes naturally and soak in the minerals,” said Lencki.

Soakers spend 90 minutes in the water to absorb the minerals.

Archeological digs in the 1950s and 1970s revealed evidence of life — animals and humans dating to prehistoric times.

“They did find that this is an ancient burial site as well,” said Lencki.

The city of North Port is dealing with modern day problems, however. Their admissions building, gift shop and restaurant were damaged and closed, thanks to Hurricanes Elsa and Ian.

They plan to preserve the springs’ cyclorama and retool the remaining buildings for showers, restrooms and an open-air pavilion.