Yes, there is a booth at the entrance where you buy your tics and walk in from there. Have fun.

I think there was an admission fee to access the boardwalk around the springs. The manatees are only in the springs when the gulf temperatures drop, so usually from November to March.

There are rocks around the springs. I saw many kayakers when I went. Nobody seemed to have difficulty getting back in. 😀

I didn't see any alligators while we there and many people in the water, so I assume it is fairly safe.

You can rent Kayaks, Boats, Paddleboard

As many have stated there are no rentals at Three Sisters Spring. The main attraction here is a beautiful boardwalk staffed by knowledgeable volunteers whose knowledge will enhance your visit. If you wish to view some of the hundreds of manatee that winter in and around the Springs the Gulf temperature should be below 68F for best viewing as the manatee does not tolerate water lower than this temp and retreats to the Springs where the viewing from the land is great. The is NO access from the land to the water nor the water to the land. There are tie ups just outside the Spring to allow you to swim in from Nov 15-March 31. Check the USFWS webpage to monitor access.

You can call them to confirm, but they said it would be a good time to go as the Gulf is still colder.

Sorry, just saw this. We took the shuttle, it is free and our driver gave us hints as to what to see. Plus you would not only have to walk to the gate but It is quite a walk from the gate to the park, the shuttle delivers one right to the walk way.