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Springs
Water plays an important part in a variety of
recreational opportunities on the forest. There are huge springs, twisting streams and lakes
for fishing and water skiing. Many of the scenic lakes were formed when limestone bedrock
dissolved, permitting the surface layer to slump and fill with water. The cool crystal-clear
water of Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, Salt Springs and Silver Glen Springs entice many
visitors to take a cool dip. Snorkelers frequently find a thrilling underwater view of fish,
swaying vegetation and cavernous springs.
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Notable springs of the Ocala National Forest
include:
Juniper Springs
Showcasing
sparkling springs in a subtropical setting, Juniper Springs is one of the oldest and best known
recreation areas on the East Coast. Located between Ocala and Ormond Beach along SR 40, this complex of
swimming and picnic area, campground, and
trails was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC). The setting is unlike any other found in the United States, with hundreds of
tiny bubbling springs and massive springs gushing out of crevices in the earth beneath a dense canopy of
palms and oaks, an oasis within the heart of the desert-like Big Scrub.
Salt Springs
Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the
Ocala National Forest. The recreation area is located in the lush, semi-tropical setting of central Florida.
Within the recreation area is a natural spring rising from vertical fissures from deep within the earth. The
presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts give the waters in the spring a slight salinity. Hence the
name Salt Springs.
Alexander Springs
There
are only 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida, and Alexander Springs is by far one of the easiest for
visitors to enjoy. A broad and naturally gently sloped spring pool becomes a natural water park when visitors
come to picnic, swim, and play. The water is a constant 72°F and extraordinarily clear. Ripples play across
the sand bottom as small fish dart about. Surrounded by a floodplain forest of maples, sweetgum, and
cabbage palms, this recreation area feels almost tropical.
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