Ocala National Forest Travel Guide

Explore the diverse natural features and cultural attractions of Ocala National Forest with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest lies in the heart of North Central Florida, spanning more than 600 square miles of dense forests, rolling hills, pristine lakes, and quiet streams. This massive natural reserve is the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and offers some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the southeastern United States. The area is a beloved destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and history buffs alike, thanks to its diverse range of flora and fauna, hiking trails, scenic waterways, and cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Ocala National Forest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ocala National Forest boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites and museums that offer fascinating insight into the region’s past. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions include:

  • Fort Gates Ferry Museum and Interpretive Center: This museum showcases the history and culture of the region, particularly the stories of the Seminole Wars and the pioneers who established the area.
  • Salt Springs Recreation Area: This popular attraction features an underground springs system that has been a gathering spot for thousands of years. Visitors can explore the nearby historic grist mill and the Civil War-era fortifications.
  • Juniper Springs Recreation Area: This historic landmark includes several buildings dating back to the 1930s, including a restored Cracker-style cabin and a millhouse. Visitors can also relax in the waters of the nearby natural spring pool, which is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round.

Natural Attractions of Ocala National Forest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

One of the main draws of Ocala National Forest is its stunning natural beauty. The park is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in the region, with a range of habitats including sand pine scrub, hardwood hammocks, wet prairie, and cypress swamps. The best natural attractions to explore include:

  • Alexander Springs Recreation Area: This is one of the more popular swimming areas within the forest and features a small, sandy beach. Boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing are also popular activities.
  • Juniper Run: This scenic waterway is a favorite among canoeists, kayakers, and tube floaters. The 7-mile floating river trip winds through a canopy of towering cypress, oak, and pine trees.
  • Ocala Trail: This is a 67-mile multi-use trail that winds through beautiful pine forests, oak hammocks, and freshwater springs within the Ocala National Forest.
  • Silver Glen Springs: This natural spring is the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, thanks to its crystal-clear waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest offers a range of hiking and biking trails for visitors of all fitness levels. Some of the popular routes that should not be missed include:

  • Florida National Scenic Trail: This trail is the longest continuous trail in Florida, stretching 1,300 miles from the Big Cypress National Preserve in South Florida to Fort Pickens in the western panhandle. Within the Ocala National Forest, the trail covers over 70 miles of wilderness trekking, through some of the most scenic landscapes the area has to offer.
  • Big Scrub Loop Trail: This is a 9.5-mile mountain biking trail that takes riders through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the forest, including pristine lakes, rolling hills, and hardwood forests.
  • Hopkins Prairie Trail: This is a scenic 5-mile hiking trail that passes through some of the most stunning pine flatwoods and wet prairies in the forest. Along the way, visitors can spot a variety of native wildlife, including Florida Sandhill Cranes and White-tailed Deer.

Best Things to Do in Ocala National Forest: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of exciting activities and tours to take part in while exploring Ocala National Forest. Some of the best things to do in the area include:

  • Horseback Riding: The forest offers miles of scenic horseback riding trails, making it possible to explore these beautiful landscapes on horseback.
  • Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to a diverse range of animals, including black bears, Florida panthers, and gopher tortoises.
  • Fishing: Visitors can engage in some of the best freshwater fishing in the state at Ocala National Forest’s many lakes. Popular catches include bass, bream, and catfish.
  • ATV Riding: With over 200 miles of ATV trails, the forest provides plenty of opportunities for off-road adventure. Permission is required to ride on the designated trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ocala National Forest

For an immersive experience in the natural beauty and outdoor adventure offerings of Ocala National Forest, consider following this suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Fort Gates Ferry Museum and Interpretive Center and explore the Salt Springs Recreation Area.

Day 2: Hike the Florida National Scenic Trail and take in the picturesque views of the forest.

Day 3: Enjoy a relaxing day at Juniper Springs Recreation Area, swimming in the natural spring pool or exploring the historic buildings.

Day 4: Take a guided wildlife tour of the forest to get up close with the local flora and fauna.

Day 5: Visit the Silver Glen Springs for a day of swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports.

Day 6: Go horseback riding through the forest’s many scenic trails.

Day 7: Spend the day off-roading on the designated ATV trails within the forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Ocala National Forest

Must-Try Dishes

The local cuisine of Ocala National Forest is primarily made up of comfort food dishes with a southern flair. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Fried Green Tomatoes: This classic southern dish is made by dipping slices of green tomatoes in batter and frying them until they are golden brown.
  • Catfish: Fried or grilled catfish is a popular dish in the region and can be found on many restaurant menus.
  • Shrimp and Grits: This dish combines creamy grits with tender shrimp, usually served in a buttery sauce.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: Biscuits and gravy is a breakfast staple throughout the south, and Ocala National Forest is no exception.

Local Beverages

The local beverage scene is equally impressive, with a range of delicious drinks to enjoy. Be sure to try:

  • Florida Orange Juice: The sunshine state is famous for its citrus industry, and the orange juice produced here is some of the best in the country.
  • Sweet Tea: Sweet tea is a southern classic and a refreshing way to cool down on a hot day.
  • Florida Craft Beer: The state of Florida has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing delicious brews with unique flavors.

Where to Stay in Ocala National Forest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Ocala National Forest will find a range of accommodation options, depending on their budget and preferences. Some of the top-rated places to stay include:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Silver Springs: This hotel is located in the heart of the Silver Springs area and offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Orlando: For a luxury experience, consider staying at The Ritz-Carlton, which features an on-site spa, pool, and fitness center.
  • Juniper Springs Recreation Area Camping: For a more immersive experience in the great outdoors, camping is always a great option, and the Juniper Springs Recreation Area is a great location for this.

What to Buy in Ocala National Forest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to shopping in Ocala National Forest, visitors will find a range of unique souvenirs and locally produced goods. Some of the top items to purchase include:

  • Handmade Jewelry: Many local artisans create beautiful jewelry pieces inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding forests.
  • Local Honey and Jams: The forests are teaming with wildflowers and fruit trees, making for some delicious local honey and jams.
  • Outdoor Gear: If you plan to spend time exploring the wilderness, you can purchase gear such as camping equipment, backpacks, and hiking boots from a number of local outfitters.

Local Culture and Customs of Ocala National Forest

The surrounding communities of Ocala National Forest are known for their friendly and laid-back way of life. Visitors should make an effort to respect the local culture and customs by being polite, courteous, and aware of their impact on the environment.

Best Time to Visit Ocala National Forest

The best time to visit Ocala National Forest is during the fall and winter months, when the weather is milder and more pleasant, and tourist crowds are fewer. However, visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ocala National Forest

Do:

  • Be aware of fire regulations and restrictions during dry seasons.
  • Stay on designated trails and pack out all rubbish.
  • Respect the appearance and behavior of wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Take any plants, animals, rocks, or artifacts from the forest.
  • Leave campfires unattended.
  • Use off-road vehicles outside of designated areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ocala National Forest

The park is generally safe for visitors, but there are some precautions to take, including:

  • Always carry plenty of drinking water and stay hydrated.
  • Be aware of the risk of sunburn and wear sunscreen and protective clothing.
  • Take care when swimming in natural spring pools and rivers as water levels and currents can vary.

Health in Ocala National Forest

Visitors to the park should make sure they are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations. Additionally, tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, are possible, so be sure to take extra precautions such as wearing long sleeves and pants, checking yourself frequently for ticks, and using insect repellent.

Getting to Ocala National Forest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ocala National Forest

The nearest major airport to Ocala National Forest is Orlando International Airport, which is approximately 95 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Ocala National Forest

Greyhound operates a bus service to the town of Ocala, which is located close to the national forest.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Ocala National Forest by following the major highways that are easily accessible by most major cities in Florida.

How to Get Around in Ocala National Forest

A car is the most convenient way to get around Ocala National Forest, with rental cars available at most major airports and transportation hubs.

Where to Go Next from Ocala National Forest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Ocala National Forest, visitors can continue their adventure by visiting nearby destinations such as:

  • The Villages: Located approximately 30 minutes from Ocala National Forest, The Villages is a popular retirement community that offers plenty of amenities, such as shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • Wekiva Springs State Park: Just a short drive south of Ocala National Forest, Wekiva Springs State Park is home to a beautiful natural spring, as well as hiking trails, canoeing, and camping.
  • Orlando: The city of Orlando is just a short drive from the forest and offers a number of popular tourist attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Conclusion

Ocala National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise, offering visitors a range of exciting outdoor activities and cultural attractions. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and fascinating history, it is a must-visit destination in Florida. This guide has covered everything visitors need to know to make the most of their time in the region, from a week-long itinerary to tips on where to stay and what to eat. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, Ocala National Forest is a destination that will satisfy visitors of all ages and interests.