The community that has grown up around De Leon Springs State Park is located north of the major city of DeLand. Residents of the De Leon Springs area enjoy an idyllic location surrounded by ancient cypress and oak trees and an environment rich in native wildlife. De Leon Springs was named for the Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon, who discovered in the spring what he believed to be the legendary "fountain of youth." The 603-acre park offers a wide range of water-oriented and outdoor activities as well as a popular restaurant. De Leon Springs is also home to Spring Garden Ranch Training Center, a training ground for harness racing horses, and Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Here, canoeists can explore 21,500 acres of lakes, creeks, and marshes. Volusia Speedway Park is another area attraction, recognized as one of the finest dirt raceways in Florida. Newcomers to this area will find a pleasing selection of homes in handsome residential developments located near Deland's first-rate services and amenities as well as exceptional outdoor recreation.