Blue Springs State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located east of Clio in Barbour County, Alabama. The 103acre state park features a clear blue, natural underground spring that pumps 3600gal of water per hour into two concrete-ringed swimming pools.HistoryHarrison's Hotel built in 1890 was among the first efforts to turn the village of Blue Springs into a health spa. Ten years later, J.T.E. Whigham began work on the Blue Springs Hotel, which eventually featured 28 rooms and modern bathhouse. In 1913, the spring pool was lined with concrete and another smaller pool designed for use by children was added to the site. The area became a popular spot for political rallies, three-day horse-trading events, and annual reunions of Confederate soldiers. The large pool remained in operation until about 1938. J.D. McLaughlin sold the property to the state resulting in creation of the state park in 1963.Activities and amenitiesSwimming: The natural spring for which the park is named has a sandy bottom, pumps 3600gal of water per minute and stays at a constant temperature of. Swimming (without lifeguards) is permitted.Camping: The park has modern and primitive campsites, rental cabins, and rental campers.Fishing: A small pond is stocked with catfish, bass, and bream.Picnicking: The park's picnicking facilities include pavilions for rent.Playground: A playground made from 100% recycled material with two main structures suitable for children ages 2–5 and 5-12 and a large sandbox for younger children was added in 2014.Volleyball: The park's sand volleyball court offers tournaments in spring and summer.
