| About Ocala National Forest |
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| Alexander Springs Recreation Area |
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Elevation:
5 - 10 Feet
Length of Stay:
14 Days
Number of Sites:
67
Reservation Status:
First Come, First Served
Reservation:
No
Season:
Year-round
From Astor Park, FL, Travel south on Country Route 445 about 8 miles.
Location Information
Alexander Springs is a major recreation, scenic, and historical area in the Ocala National Forest. The focal point is a freshwater spring that gushes out approximately 70 million gallons of 72 degree Fahrenheit crystal clear water daily. It is one of Florida's 27 first-magnitude freshwater springs. The surrounding subtropical vegetation of palms, hardwood swamp, and sand pine ridge provide a variety of botanical area.Archaeological excavation in 1972 indicates human habitation about 1000 A.D. Among the artifacts was a clay cooking pot containing the remnants of a meal. Alexander Springs features camping and day use facilities for picnicking, water activities, birding and hiking. There is an entrance fee charge. The facilities are open year-round, and a concessionaire sells snacks, limited groceries, ice and supplies in summer and out-of-season weekends. Pets are prohibited in swimming and picnic areas. Dogs are permitted in camping areas and on roadways, but are to be controlled by a leash no longer than six feet. All motorized vehicles are restricted to established roads and are to be used only to enter or leave day use parking areas or campsites. Day use hours vary according to the season. There are no boat launch facilities other than for cartop boats / canoes. The 67-unit campground can accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 feet. Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis and the maximum stay is 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period from April 1st to September 30th. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups, but hot showers and a dump station are provided. Detailed camping regulations are posted and available at the entrance gatehouse. A natural pool offers year-round swimming with change house facilities available. Snorkeling is an excellent way to enjoy the abundant fish and swaying underwater vegetation. Scuba diving is permitted in the large spring boil, but valid proof of certification is required and must be presented on demand. Canoeing is extremely popular all year and offers an alternate opportunity to view Alexander Creek and the adjoining subtropical environment. Some snorkeling equipment, rental canoes and back haul service are offered daily. The Timucuan Indian nature trail leads from the picnic area through various habitats. The 1.1-mile loop trail highlights vegetation used by early Native Americans and offers excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife along Alexander Creek. For the more serious hiker, a blue-blazed spur trail connects the area with the nearby orange-blazed Florida National Scenic Trail, which runs 66 miles through Ocala National Forest. There is a free parking area for hikers just before the entrance.
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