As the temperature soars up toward the triple digits, everyone seeks relief from the heat. Here in Central Florida, we have a few options. The east coast provides us access to the Atlantic Ocean and the beaches at New Smyrna Beach, Daytona, Beach and the Space Coast. But if you’re inland and want to escape the mind altering heat you can head to the lakes and springs.
A popular inland recreational destination is the Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area. The Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area is located in the Ocala National Forest directly across from the trailhead to the “Yearling” trail in what is known as the Big Scrub an area made famous by author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. This trail is part of the network which connects to the Florida Trail, one of 11 designated National Scenic Trails in the USA .
At Silver Glen Springs near Ocala, Florida, you can cool off in the crystal clear water. It’s not unusual in the summer for it to be a sweltering 101 degrees and above in the Recreation Area, however, the waters in the Spring offer a refreshing change of pace. The water temperature in the springs seldom gets above 72 degrees. There is a roped off area for swimmers, divers and snorkelers which is relatively shallow except for an area above the boil. There’s a conical depression where water flows through the sand and limestone into the springs. Walls of fish linger in the marine grass. Both freshwater and saltwater species inhabit this area, so even though the Springs are fresh water, it’s not uncommon to make out the outline of a ray buried in the sand or to see mullet leaping from the waters. Boaters (those with shallow draft craft) come in to Silver Glen Run from Lake George. Kayakers, jet-ski and canoe enthusiasts abound. Rental houseboats and canoes are available so that you can float or paddle in the waters surrounding the swimming area or go further afield.
Should you come in the entrance from SR 19, there are changing stalls available to the side of the parking area. A daily entrance fee ($5.50 per person in 2011) is payable at a little store/registration office. Purchase an Ocala National Forest Recreation Pass ($60 per person) which will save you money if you frequent the area Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, Salt Springs, Clearwater Lake and Wildcat Lake.
A few things you might want to bear in mind. The parking lot is relatively small. Once the lot is filled, the parking area is closed. You may want to plan your visit accordingly and arrive early in the day to avoid disappointment. Also, should you have someone with you in a wheelchair or using a cane, there is a walkway to the kiosk, but after that the ground has a lot of roots and areas that may be a bit difficult to navigate without assistance. Picnic tables are grouped primarily in two areas of the springs. Bring your own lunch or breakfast and enjoy a meal al fresco. Do not bring glass containers or alcohol. Both are prohibited. Toilets are in the form of Port-o-Lets (not real pleasant when its super hot outside-also, you need to beware of wasps that make their way inside the toilet stalls, so check for stinging insects before you close the door).
Sources:
United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service www.fs.usda.gov
National Public Radio http://www.npr.org/.
