Springs in Ocala National Forest
Six crystal-clear natural springs with water that stays about 72 to 74°F, world-class swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and camping in the heart of Central Florida's largest national forest.
The Ocala National Forest contains five major natural springs — Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, Silver Glen Springs, and Fern Hammock Springs — with water that stays about 72 to 74°F year-round. Silver Springs State Park, the world's largest artesian spring, sits adjacent to the forest. Day-use fees are $14.50/person plus tax at forest springs. Swimming is permitted at Alexander, Juniper, Salt, and Silver Glen springs. The 7-mile Juniper Creek canoe run and 6.5-mile Alexander Run are premier paddling destinations.
- -5 springs inside the Ocala National Forest + Silver Springs State Park adjacent — all with 72°F crystal-clear water
- -Day-use: $14.50/person + tax at forest springs; $80 + tax Annual Day Use Pass covers Alexander, Juniper & Silver Glen
- -Best for swimming: Alexander Springs (scuba diving allowed) and Silver Glen Springs (100+ ft visibility)
- -Best for kayaking: Juniper Springs (7-mile canoe run) and Alexander Springs (6.5-mile paddle trail)
- -Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds; summer weekends reach capacity by mid-morning
Ocala National Forest Springs at a Glance
Compare all six springs by activities, fees, and facilities to plan your visit.
| Spring | Magnitude | Fee | Swim | Dive | Kayak | Camp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexander Springs | First-Magnitude | $14.50/person + tax | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Juniper Springs | Second-Magnitude | $14.50/person + tax | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Salt Springs | Second-Magnitude | $14.50/person + tax | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Silver Glen Springs | First-Magnitude | $14.50/person + tax | ✓ | — | ✓ | — |
| Fern Hammock Springs | Juniper Creek Spring | Included in Juniper Springs day-use fee ($14.50/person + tax) | — | — | — | — |
| Silver Springs State Park | First-Magnitude (Largest in Florida) | $2/person vehicle entry; glass-bottom boat tours $14-$20 | — | — | ✓ | ✓ |
Complete Guide to Each Spring
Detailed information on every spring in and near the Ocala National Forest, including water conditions, fees, facilities, and how to get there from Ocala.
The only spring in the Ocala National Forest that permits scuba diving. Alexander Springs produces 70 million gallons of turquoise water daily, with a swimming pool roughly 300 by 250 feet. The 6.5-mile Alexander Run paddle trail winds through subtropical hammock and wetland habitats.
Temperature
72°F
Clarity
90-100 ft visibility
Depth
25 ft at main vent
Entry Fee
$14.50/person + tax
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic pavilions, canoe/kayak rentals, campground (67 sites)
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays year-round; reservations required in summer peak season
From Ocala
48 miles southeast of Ocala via SR 19 to County Road 445. About 1 hour drive.
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s; the Forest Service calls it one of the oldest and best-known recreation areas on the East Coast. The CCC-built swimming area feeds into the famous 7-mile Juniper Creek canoe run, one of the most scenic paddle trails in the state. Wildlife sightings include river otters, turtles, and wading birds.
Temperature
72°F
Clarity
Crystal clear, with tapegrass on the bottom
Depth
Shallow at one end, deep enough to jump into at the other
Entry Fee
$14.50/person + tax
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic area, canoe/kayak rentals, campground (79 sites), camp store
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings for smallest crowds; canoe run requires early start (before 1 PM launch cutoff)
From Ocala
About 30 miles east of Ocala on SR 40, per the Forest Service; the entrance is on the north side of the highway.
Named for its slightly saline mineral content, Salt Springs produces 52 million gallons per day. Shallow, clear water for wading makes it popular with families. The marina provides access to Salt Springs Run and Lake George, making it a hub for boating and fishing in the forest.
Temperature
74°F
Clarity
Clear with slight mineral tint
Depth
Shallow wading area plus a designated swimming area
Entry Fee
$14.50/person + tax
Facilities
Flush toilets, hot showers, marina, boat ramps, campground (94 full-hookup RV and 52 tent-only sites on Recreation.gov), picnic areas with grills
Best Time to Visit
Year-round; less crowded October through March. Fish the coves of Salt Springs Run downstream of the swimming area; fishing is not allowed at the marina itself.
From Ocala
35 miles east of Ocala via SR 40 to SR 19 North. About 45 minutes drive.
One of the clearest springs in the entire forest, Silver Glen produces 65 million gallons daily and connects directly to Lake George. Schools of mullet and other fish are visible from the surface. Archaeological evidence shows 6,000 years of human habitation at this site. The short paddle to Lake George offers exceptional scenery.
Temperature
72°F
Clarity
Crystal clear, 100+ ft visibility
Depth
15-20 ft at main boil
Entry Fee
$14.50/person + tax
Facilities
Restrooms, picnic area, parking. No camping on-site (nearby campgrounds available)
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays, especially early mornings. Summer weekends reach capacity by mid-morning.
From Ocala
50 miles southeast of Ocala via SR 19 South. About 1 hour drive.
A clear spring inside Juniper Springs Recreation Area, nicknamed "The Aquarium" for its clarity. The Forest Service says Juniper and Fern Hammock springs together flow about 13 million gallons a day into Juniper Creek. The Forest Service does not allow wading in the springs or runs, so Fern Hammock is a look-only spring, reached on foot from inside the recreation area.
Temperature
72°F
Clarity
Exceptional — nicknamed "The Aquarium"
Depth
Viewing only; no swimming or wading
Entry Fee
Included in Juniper Springs day-use fee ($14.50/person + tax)
Facilities
No separate facilities; use the restrooms, parking and picnic areas at Juniper Springs Recreation Area.
Best Time to Visit
Any time of day; late morning light creates the best viewing conditions
From Ocala
Same access as Juniper Springs Recreation Area, entered from the north side of SR 40. The Juniper Springs boardwalk area is closed for renovations as of October 2026, so ask at the gatehouse about access.
While technically adjacent to the Ocala National Forest rather than inside it, Silver Springs is the largest artesian spring formation in the world, producing 550 million gallons daily. Famous as the original Florida attraction since the 1870s, it pioneered glass-bottom boat tours. Now a state park, it offers exceptional kayaking, wildlife viewing, and winter manatee encounters.
Temperature
72°F
Clarity
World-famous clarity, 80+ ft visibility
Depth
Varies; up to 35 ft in main spring
Entry Fee
$2/person vehicle entry; glass-bottom boat tours $14-$20
Facilities
Restrooms, gift shop, kayak/canoe rentals, campground (59 sites), museum, picnic pavilions
Best Time to Visit
December through February for manatee viewing (hundreds gather in warm spring water). Weekday mornings for kayaking.
From Ocala
15 miles east of downtown Ocala via SR 40 (Silver Springs Boulevard). About 20 minutes drive.
What Can You Do at Ocala National Forest Springs?
From swimming and scuba diving to multi-mile paddle trails and lakeside camping.
Swimming & Snorkeling
Four springs offer designated swimming areas with crystal-clear 72°F water. Alexander Springs and Silver Glen Springs provide the deepest, clearest pools. Snorkeling reveals fish, turtles, and aquatic plants in exceptional visibility. No special equipment needed beyond a mask and snorkel. None of these are hot water springs; Florida has none, and the official Forest Service temperatures run 72°F to 74°F.
Scuba Diving
Alexander Springs is the only spring in the Ocala National Forest that permits scuba diving. The main vent reaches 25 feet with 90-100 feet of horizontal visibility. Divers must display a dive flag and follow posted regulations. Ideal for both beginners and experienced divers.
Kayaking & Canoeing
The 7-mile Juniper Creek canoe run and 6.5-mile Alexander Run are premier paddle trails. Salt Springs marina connects to Lake George for open-water paddling. Rentals available on-site at multiple locations.
Camping
Campgrounds at four springs: Salt Springs (146 sites on Recreation.gov), Juniper Springs (79 sites), Alexander Springs (67 sites), and Silver Springs State Park (59 sites). Only Salt Springs has full RV hookups in the national forest. Reservations recommended for weekends and holidays.
Hiking
Multiple trails connect to the spring areas. The Timucuan Trail at Alexander Springs (0.9 miles) explores archaeological sites. The Florida Trail passes through the forest with spring access points. Nature trails at Juniper and Salt Springs offer shorter walks.
Wildlife Viewing
Springs attract diverse wildlife year-round. Winter months bring manatees to Silver Springs. River otters, alligators, great blue herons, and barred owls frequent spring runs. Underwater viewing reveals mullet, bass, gar, and turtles in the clear water.
Planning Your Springs Visit from Ocala
Essential tips for visiting the springs in the Ocala National Forest.
Save with the Springs Hopper Pass
The Annual Springs Hopper Pass costs $80 plus tax and covers day-use admission at the Naventure-run springs: the Forest Service lists Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, Silver Glen Springs and Salt Springs (its Alexander Springs page names Clearwater Lake and Wildcat Lake instead of Salt Springs). At $14.50 a visit, it pays for itself on the sixth visit. It is sold on site at the recreation areas.
Beat the Crowds
Silver Glen Springs and Alexander Springs reach capacity earliest on summer weekends, often by 10 AM. Arrive before 9 AM for guaranteed entry. Weekdays offer a dramatically different experience with space to spread out. October through March provides warm-enough water for swimming with a fraction of the visitors.
What to Bring
Pack reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreens can harm spring ecosystems), water shoes for rocky spring bottoms, snorkel gear for underwater viewing, and a waterproof phone case. Bring your own food and drinks as concessions are limited. Cash is recommended as some areas have unreliable cell service for card processing.
Getting There from Ocala
Silver Springs is the closest at 15 miles (20 minutes). Juniper Springs and Salt Springs are accessible via SR 40 and SR 19 (45-55 minutes). Alexander Springs and Silver Glen Springs require about 1 hour via SR 19. Download offline maps before departing — cell service is spotty throughout the Ocala National Forest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ocala National Forest Springs
What is the best spring for swimming in Ocala National Forest?
Alexander Springs and Silver Glen Springs are considered the best swimming springs in the Ocala National Forest. Alexander Springs has a large 300-by-250-foot turquoise pool with depths up to 25 feet, and it is the only spring in the forest that allows scuba diving. Silver Glen Springs offers crystal-clear water with over 100 feet of visibility. Both maintain a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round and charge $14.50 per person plus tax for day-use admission.
How much does it cost to visit springs in Ocala National Forest?
Day-use admission at Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, and Silver Glen Springs is $14.50 per person plus tax (children 5 and under free). An Annual Day Use Pass (Springs Hopper Pass) is sold on site for $80 plus tax; the Forest Service's Juniper Springs and Silver Glen Springs pages say it covers Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, Silver Glen Springs and Salt Springs, while its Alexander Springs page lists Clearwater Lake and Wildcat Lake in place of Salt Springs, so confirm coverage where you buy it. Fern Hammock Springs has no separate fee; it is reached from inside Juniper Springs Recreation Area, so the Juniper Springs day-use fee applies. Silver Springs State Park charges $2 per person for vehicle entry, with glass-bottom boat tours priced between $14 and $20.
Can you kayak at springs in Ocala National Forest?
Yes, kayaking is available at most springs in the Ocala National Forest. Juniper Springs offers the famous 7-mile Juniper Creek canoe run through subtropical forest. Alexander Springs has the 6.5-mile Alexander Run paddle trail. Salt Springs provides marina access to Salt Springs Run and Lake George. Silver Glen Springs allows paddling to Lake George. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at Juniper Springs and at the Salt Springs marina; at Alexander Springs, bring your own boat.
Is there camping near the springs in Ocala National Forest?
Yes, several springs offer on-site campgrounds. Salt Springs has the largest campground in the forest, with 94 full-hookup RV sites and 52 tent-only sites on Recreation.gov. Juniper Springs has 79 campsites in a forested setting. Alexander Springs offers 67 campsites. Silver Springs State Park has 59 campsites. Campsite reservations are recommended, especially during summer months and holidays. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 for national forest campgrounds.
When is the best time to visit Ocala springs to avoid crowds?
Visit on weekday mornings for the smallest crowds at any spring. October through March is the least crowded season overall, though water activities remain comfortable due to the constant 72-degree water temperature. Summer weekends are the busiest, with Silver Glen Springs and Alexander Springs often reaching capacity by mid-morning. During peak summer months, vehicle reservations may be required at Alexander Springs. Arriving before 9 AM on weekends provides the best chance of entry without long waits.
Can you see manatees at springs in Ocala National Forest?
Silver Springs State Park is the premier location for manatee viewing near the Ocala National Forest. During winter months from December through February, hundreds of manatees gather in the warm 72-degree spring water as river temperatures drop. Manatees are protected wildlife, and visitors must maintain a safe distance and never touch or feed them.
What is the water quality like at Ocala National Forest springs?
Ocala National Forest springs produce some of the purest natural spring water in Florida. All major springs maintain a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The water originates from the Floridan Aquifer, filtered through limestone over thousands of years. Alexander Springs offers 90 to 100 feet of visibility. Silver Glen Springs exceeds 100 feet of visibility. The spring water is naturally clear, free of tannins, and supports diverse aquatic ecosystems including fish, turtles, and aquatic plants.
Explore More Ocala Outdoor Recreation
All Springs Near Ocala
Complete guide to every spring within driving distance
Ocala National Forest Guide
Everything to see and do in the forest
Hiking in Ocala National Forest
Trail guides and hiking tips
Kayaking in Ocala
Best paddling destinations and rentals
Manatee Viewing in Ocala
Where and when to see manatees
Alexander Springs Guide
Swimming, diving & camping details