Juniper Springs State Park: Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Florida's Natural Springs

Juniper Springs is a beautiful natural area located in the Ocala National Forest in Central Florida. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities to enjoy, including swimming, hiking, camping, and more. Here are some of the top things to do and see at Juniper Springs:

 

Swim: The highlight of Juniper Springs is the beautiful, clear-water swimming hole, which is fed by the Juniper Springs Run. The water is a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.

Canoeing and Kayaking: The Juniper Springs Run is also a great spot for canoeing and kayaking. The run is a narrow, winding waterway that meanders through the forest and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, turtles, and alligators.

Hiking: Juniper Springs offers several hiking trails that wind through the forest, including the Juniper Springs Trail, which is a 7.3-mile loop that passes by the swimming hole and offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness.

Camping: Juniper Springs offers several camping options, including primitive tent camping and RV sites with full hookups. Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of the Ocala National Forest up close and personal.

Historic Millhouse: Visitors to Juniper Springs can also explore the historic millhouse, which was built in the 1930s and served as a hydroelectric power plant. The millhouse is now a museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area.

Juniper Springs is a beautiful natural area that is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the beauty of Florida's wilderness. With its clear-water swimming hole, winding waterways, hiking trails, and historic millhouse, Juniper Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Central Florida.

Address:

26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488

 

Hours:

8AM -6pm daily

 

Admission:

$9 per person on weekdays

$12 per person on weekends

Happy Travels!

       Sherri

      

3 Natural Springs in North & Central Florida

Juniper Springs Recreation Area

Juniper Springs is a subtropical paradise located in the middle of the Ocala National Forest. The water temperature of the crystal clear water is 72 degrees year round.

We decided to stop by Juniper Springs on our way back home from a cruise out of Tallahassee. I wish we would have allowed more time to explore the area! It is one of those places that doesn’t feel quiet real. It is so pretty!

Address :

26701 FL-40

Silver Springs, FL 34488

Fanning Springs State Park

Fanning Springs State Park is a great place for swimming, snorkeling, or watching manatees. 

We drove past this places and decided to go back and check it out. I am so glad we did!

We drove past this places and decided to go back and check it out. I am so glad we did!

There were a couple of manatees swimming around with the people. This is the first time for me to see manatees so close. It was a little too cool of a day for me to get in the water, but the couple swimming said that the temperature of the water was comfortable. I will definitely go back when the weather is warmer!

*Remember that it is against the law to harass manatees. Look, but don’t touch!

Address:

18020 N.W. HWY 19
Fanning Springs, FL 32693

Manatee Springs State Park

Manatee Springs is a popular place for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and spotting manatees.

 A long boardwalk allows for a quite stroll through Cyprus trees.

It is common to see deer throughout the park, many times walking right up to you.

I have been to Manatee Springs twice and have yet to see a manatee!  It is a very interesting place though. It seems a little bit like “Jurassic Park” to me… maybe because the first visit was right after a rain storm. It was cloudy and foggy.

The second time was early morning and there were hundreds of buzzards flying around our heads!

Address:

11650 NW 115 Street

Chiefland, FL 32626

Happy Travels! 

The Best of Islamorada - Florida Keys

When I start dreaming about another trip to the Florida Keys, I’m not thinking about laying on a beach in Key West or snorkeling in Key Largo….. I’m thinking about Islamorada! I love everything about the place! It’s right in the middle of everything. It has pretty beaches, great snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and good places to eat without all of the crowds. It is located about half way between Key West and Key Largo, which makes it perfect for a day trip in either direction.

Where to Stay

1)  Chesapeake Beach Resort 

The Chesapeake Beach Resort has nice clean accommodations surrounded by tropical gardens at a reasonable price. Spend some time playing tennis, kayaking, swimming in one of the heated pools, or just relaxing in a hammock. This place is the perfect place to get away from it all and have fun!

Address: 83409 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

2) Pines and Palms

While visiting the Pines and Palms, we stayed in an ocean view suite. It was minimal, but clean. What sold us on the places was the grounds. The area was beautifully landscaped with stunning views of the water. We spent hours in the pool overlooking the ocean and then lounged in the hammocks.

Address: 80401 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Where to Eat

1).  Island Grill 

The perfect upbeat place. Loved the live entertainment. 

Address: 85501 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

2). Islamorada Fish Company

Good food with a laid back feel. Very relaxing.

Address: 81532 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Places to Visit

1). Anne’s Beach

This Lower Matecumbe Key beach is located on the oceanside, but there is almost no wave action due to the wide expanse of shallow water typical for Florida Keys beaches.

Located at Mile Marker 73, there are two parking area ¼ mile apart with a boardwalk connecting the areas.

Address: Mile marker 73, Overseas Highway

2). Robbie's

A trip to the Keys would not be complete without a visit to the famous Robbie’s to feed the tarpon.

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

It is also a great place to charter a fishing trip or snorkeling adventure.

Happy Travels!