The 30 Best Florida waterway adventures in Ocala, Florida

The Alexander Springs Day Use Area, located in the Ocala National Forest in Altoona, Florida, is a campground, lodging, and park facility that offers a wide range of outdoor experiences for visitors to enjoy. With over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country, Recreation.gov is here to help you plan your next adventure and reserve your experiences. Whether you're interested in camping, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, monument tours, or ranger-led activities, Recreation.gov has something for everyone. With tools and resources to help you plan your trip, manage your details, and enter for special events and excursions, you can make the most out of your Recreation.gov experience.

The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway Park is a unique and diverse institution located at 8282 Southeast Highway 314 in Ocala, Florida, United States. This park is part of one of the nation's largest incomplete public works projects, now transformed into a 110-mile linear park spanning Central Florida from the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Johns River. Covering more than 70,000 acres of land formerly known as the Cross Florida Barge Canal, the Greenway offers over 300 miles of trails for paddling, hiking, mountain biking, equestrian activities, and paved multi-use paths. It is also a wildlife corridor, with a "land bridge" across a major interstate that both trail users and wildlife utilize. Black bears are known to use the Greenway as a major corridor, especially near the Ocala National Forest.

Sweetwater Oaks is a charming lodging and RV park located in the picturesque city of Ocala, Florida. Situated on 45 acres, our community offers 242 beautifully maintained sites surrounded by rolling pastures and scenic waterways. Residents can enjoy the lush, oak-lined streets and world-renowned horse shows that make Ocala the "Horse Capital of the World." With convenient access to top thoroughbred farms, training centers, and natural attractions like the Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs State Park, residents of Sweetwater Oaks have endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. The College of Central Florida also provides educational opportunities for active seniors seeking to expand their knowledge.

Silver Springs State Park, Campground and Museum Entrance is a popular destination located at 1425 Northeast 58th Avenue in Ocala, Florida, United States. Visitors can explore the park's famous glass bottom boats to see an underwater world in one of America's largest springs. Surrounded by serene gardens and historic structures, the main spring offers a glimpse into the past when Silver Springs was a major destination for travelers arriving by steamship. The park is also home to the annual Springsfest, celebrating the protection and restoration of Florida's springs and waterways. Please note that as of March 5, 2024, the Half Mile Creek Trail and Fort King Paddle Trail are partially closed for boardwalk construction. Additionally, new restroom facilities are being built near the paddle craft launch area, with the day use picnic area closed for construction. Cabin furniture provided includes one queen mattress and two twin mattresses, but visitors should bring additional accommodations if needed.

Juniper Prairie Wilderness is a stunning park located in East Marion, Florida, United States. This institution offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with vast expanses of untouched wilderness to explore. From lush forests to crystal-clear springs, Juniper Prairie Wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, camp, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. With its serene atmosphere and diverse ecosystems, this park is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Florida's wilderness.