Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ocala National Forest's flagship recreation area was developed in the mid-1930s. Conces-
sions sell groceries and firewood, and rent kayaks and canoes ($33.50 per day, 8am to
8pm) for making the 7-mile, palmetto- and cypress-lined run down Juniper Creek. There's
a pickup and return shuttle at the end of the creek between 1:30pm and 4:40pm ($6 per
person and $6 per boat). Swimming is sublime at Juniper Springs: the water is a crisp 72°F
(22°C) year-round.
Salt Springs Recreation Area OUTDOORS
( GOOGLE MAP ; 352-685-2048; www.floridasprings.org/visit/map/salt-springs ; 13851 N Hwy 19,
Salt Springs; admission $5.50, campsites with/without hookups $26/19; 8am-8pm)
Rumored to have curative powers, Salt Springs is a favorite with RV owners for its lovely
shady areas.
Salt Springs Run Marina BOAT RENTAL
( 352-685-2255; www.saltspringsmarina.com ; 25711 NE 134th Pl, Salt Springs; 7am-4pm)
Rent a variety of water vessels to cruise enormous Lake Kerr: canoes ($25 per day), pon-
toon boats ($90/140 per four hours/day plus gas) or a 16ft Carolina Skiff ($36/50 per four
hours/day plus gas).
Alexander Springs Recreation Area OUTDOORS
( GOOGLE MAP ; 352-669-3522; www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recarea/?recid=32209 ; 49525
County Rd 445, Altoona; admission/campsites $5.50/21; 8am-8pm)
This picturesque recreation area has one of the last untouched subtropical forests left in
Florida. The stunning sapphire-blue freshwater spring attracts wildlife, swimmers, scuba
divers (an extra $6.50 fee) and sunbathers. Canoe rental ($16/38 per two hours/daily) in-
cludes a welcome rehaul at the end of the 7-mile paddle.
Information
Rangers serve most of the area and all campgrounds have resident volunteers who are
good sources of information. There's no single admission fee and no one number to call;
day-use areas are generally open 8am to 8pm. Pick up free literature and maps or buy a to-
pographical version at any of the visitor centers, all open 8am to 5pm.
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