The springs in Ocala National Forest are some of the most stunning scenery you’ll find in the Sunshine State. Most people that vacation in Florida head to the beaches or the theme parks…us Floridians, on the other hand, head straight for the springs! There are more than 1,000 natural springs sprinkled throughout Florida- more than any other place on the planet! The springs stay a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year round, making them a great place to beat the heat.
There are five springs in the Ocala National Forest that are accessible to visitors. These springs are: Alexander Springs, Fern Hammock Springs, Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, and Silver Glen Springs. Join us as we explore the springs in Ocala National Forest and explore the real Florida!
Table of Contents
5 Springs in Ocala National Forest
Alexander Springs
Alexander Springs is one of the best springs for snorkeling and diving. The swimming area is a huge, wide open space and there are parts that are shallow enough for little ones to enjoy. There are steps that lead down to the spring. This is a great spot for little ones to get acclimated to the temperature of the water. Once you’re in the water, it isn’t exceptionally deep (but still deep enough that they can swim).
The kayak and paddleboard launch site is also very close to the swimming hole, making it easy to go back and forth between the two.
The swimming area isn’t all shallow, however. In fact, local dive schools use the springs for training since parts of the spring are as deep as 25 feet.
Alexander Springs is also known for camping, hiking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. There is a 0.9 mile interpretive trail called the Timucuan Trail. The loop consists of a shady boardwalk that travels through the forest along the spring run.
Fern Hammock Springs
Fern Hammock Springs are accessible from Juniper Springs. Unlike the other springs in the Ocala National Forest, swimming isn’t permitted here. This spring is environmentally protected and has a higher alligator and snake population. It’s still absolutely worth the short walk from Juniper Springs. Fern Hammock Springs is absolutely stunning and considered by many to be one of the most beautiful springs in the world!
Juniper Springs
An old watermill constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s helps make this one of the most picturesque springs in the area. The springs are popular for swimming, snorkeling, floating, camping, hiking, and paddling.
Juniper Run is a narrow, winding waterway that travels through a dense canopy of an ancient forest. It is an excellent spot to paddle out in search for turtles, fish, birds, and alligators.
Salt Springs
Salt Springs is another excellent swimming hole found in the Ocala National Forest. The swimming area is massive and the parts away from the spring head are shallow enough for wading. The water near the boils, however, are deep and full of slippery rocks.
Salt Springs is unique in the sense that it is salty and is home to an abundance of blue crabs. The water is naturally salty due to the high levels of magnesium and potassium- but not nearly as salty as ocean water.
Silver Glen Springs
Silver Glen Springs is one of many Floridian’s favorite springs! The water is crystal clear and the swimming area is massive. Historians believe that this site has been popular with humans for over 10,000 years! It was once the home to an ancient village. Today, it is home to Florida black bears, racoons, an abundance of fish and birds, turtles, and manatees.
Silver Glen Springs is popular for swimming, snorkeling, floating, and paddling.
When is the Best time to Visit?
The springs are phenomenal year round! If you want a glimpse of the manatees, come during the winter (January and February seem to be peak times). If you want to kayak, canoe, or paddle board you can do so year round, but you’ll find it less crowded in the cooler months.
If you’re brave, you can swim year round. The water temperature is the same all year. Florida’s weather is really inconsistent in the winter. We can go from being in the 80s one day to the 50s the next. As long as you can handle the outside temperatures when you exit the springs, you can absolutely swim in the springs 365 days a year.
Our Spring Essentials
Floats and Rafts
SportsStuff Noodler 2
River Run Inflatable American Flag 2 Person Tube Float with Cooler
Giant Flamingo Float
Giant Unicorn Float
More Fun Stuff!
Inflatable Kayak
Inflatable Paddleboard (I swear by this one!)
Full-Face Snorkel Mask
Safety
Puddle Jumper Vest
Swim Vest
First Aid Kit
Skin Care & Insect Repellent
Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Towels & Swim Suits
Toddler Striped Hooded Poncho Towels
Women’s Boardshorts
Women’s 50+ SPF Shirt
Girl’s Roxy Rashguard
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