Ocala's Favorite Forest Retreats

The Ocala National Forest offers a wealth of natural getaways, from more than 2 dozen primitive campsites to complete resort facilities. Here are a few favorites:

HORSESHOE LAKE. This new retreat and conference center is located 2.5 miles east of Orange Springs on CR318, at the north end of the Ocala National Forest. The park surrounds a spring-fed lake and offers nature trails, fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Cabins are equipped with central air and heat, refrigerators, screened porches, picnic tables and barbecue grills.

NOTE: Horseshoe Lake Park is currently under renovation and we expect to be able to rent by September 2005. Rentals will be weekly or monthly with pricing and amenities yet to be determined. Information requests should be directed to:

Marion County Parks & Recreation
111 SE 11th Avenue
Ocala, Fl. 34471
352-671-8560

JUNIPER SPRINGS RECREATION AREA. A perennial favorite, Juniper Springs recreation area offers camping in semi-tropical scenery along the scenic Juniper Creek. The 7-mile spring run is among the most popular canoeing destinations in the state. The unique swimming area at the spring’s source dates from the 1930s. Primitive camping is available to backpackers at Hidden Pond in the Juniper Prairie Wilderness. Campsite fees begin at $13 a night, and showers are available. Canoe rentals begin at $23 for the day. The Juniper Springs Recreation Area is located on SR 40, about 17 miles east of Silver Springs. For information, contact the Ocala National Forest Visitor Center, 3199 NE Hwy. 315, Silver Springs Fl 34488. Phone: (352) 236-0288.

SALT SPRINGS RECREATION AREA. Since the turn of the century — when visitors sought the healing power of its slightly salty water — Salt Springs has been a popular destination for campers. The park was completely renovated in 1999. Local activities include fishing, snorkeling, bird watching, hiking and swimming in the spring’s headwaters. The recreation area is located on State Road 19 in Salt Springs, just north of Highway 314. In addition to tent camping, the recreation area offers full-hookup camping for trailers and motor homes. Showers are available. Primitive campsites cost $13 a night, or $17 with full-service hookups. For additional information, contact the Salt Springs Visitor Center, 14100 North Highway 19, Salt Springs, FL 32134. Phone: (352) 685-3070.

ALEXANDER SPRINGS RECREATION AREA. This scenic forest spring has been popular with the locals for something like a thousand years. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of native Timucuan Indian settlements dating back to 1,000 A.D., and these are explained on the short nature trail near the campground. The spring provides swimming and snorkeling year-round, as well as one of the better canoe runs in the region. Campsites cost $15 a night, and canoe rentals cost $26 per day. For additional information, contact the Pittman Visitor Center, 45621 South SR 19, Altoona, FL 32702. Phone (352) 669-7495 or (352) 669-3522.