How long does it take for your hair to dry naturally?

I think my hair holds way too much moisture for way too long. I hate to have to blow dry it all the time because I don't want the heat damage. I showered at 9am this morning and it's still damp 12 hrs later (9 pm). I naturally have long, thick, curly hair but 12 hrs seems ridiculous. Do I have no choice but to blow dry it, or, is there some trick I'm not aware of? When I blow dry it, I look like a crackhead that's just been through a tornado. It's not a pleasant sight.