The organized volunteer effort at Rainbow Springs State Park began in 1990 immediately following the purchase of the site of the former commercial attraction. Volunteers cleaned the garden of more than 15 years of debris and did repairs to make existing facilities usable. In 1992 the volunteers were allowed to open the Park on a weekend only basis with the understanding that they would initiate the incorporation of a group based on a state sanctioned program for a Park CSO or "Citizen Support Organization" in order to raise funds. The corporation became a reality in 1993 as FORS or "The Friends of Rainbow Springs State Park, Inc.". The weekend operation, facility rehabilitation and the introduction of fundraising events called "Santa Livingroom" and the Annual Benefit Golf Event were early efforts of the volunteers. The work of the volunteers was merged with a basic Florida Park Service staff to make full time park operations possible in 1995.

The original cadre of supporters has grown from some 30 volunteers to almost 200 FORS members, many of whom are active volunteers.

The volunteers continue to be an integral part of the Park, contributing over 15,000 hours annually. A substantial percentage of that time is in areas of visitor services such as the gift shop, food concession and special events. These activities along with donations, grants, and membership dues provide the funding for projects in the park which could not be accomplished within the state budget.

Christmas Light Displays

December 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd and 26th & 27th,

 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Rainbow Springs State Park

19158 Southwest 81st Pl. Road

Dunnellon, Florida

Guests can enjoy thousands of decorative park lights in celebration of the holiday season. A $1.00 park entrance fee applies.

Just spectacular!