Historic Silver Springs State Park is located in Marion County, Florida, only 6 miles east of Ocala and 85 miles north of Orlando.
The park’s main attraction, the Silver Springs, has been a popular tourist destination since 1870. This beloved natural spring is surrounded by picturesque gardens and historic structures. Glass bottom boats showcase the clear waters of the spring and the varied wildlife that live within, as well as remnants of Hollywood movie sets and more.
Visitors to this beautiful and unique Florida state park also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, birdwatching and more.
Activities
Silver Springs State Park has much to offer visitors and has long been a popular tourist destination. Explore the trails, gardens and the historic village and museum, kayak or canoe on the Silver River, or have a peaceful lunch in the wooded or garden view picnic areas.
The Pioneer Village is open on the weekends and features a 19th century Cracker settlement of historic buildings.
The Silver River Museum showcases exhibits and other informative displays about nature and wildlife and the people who have lived in this area throughout the years.
Here’s some more information about the many activities that you can do during your visit to Silver Springs State Park:
Boating at Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is known for their historic glass bottom boat tours. Discover this beautiful area and enjoy a leisurely ride on one of these enjoyable cruises over the springs.
Or bring your kayak or canoe and paddle the 1.1 mile loop around Ross Allen Island. Kayak and canoe rentals are available within the park beginning daily at 8am.
Hiking at Silver Springs State Park
Explore the diverse landscape in and around Silver Springs State Park. See the historic gardens, Silver River and more as you make your walk, run or stroll. Strategically placed benches, picnic tables and rocking chairs are available for when you want to take a break.
Here are a few of the trails at Silver Springs State Park:
- The Creek Trail – An easy ¾ mile loop through the gardens and along the creek.
- The Sandhill Trail – Easy 1.7 mile loop through the pine uplands area.
- The Sinkhole Trail – Easy 2.2 mile loop through pine trees with beautiful views of the river.
- The Swamp Trail – Easy 1.9 mile loop through the forest and across a boardwalk overlooking the swamp area.
Biking at Silver Springs State Park
Many of the trails at Silver Springs State Park are open to mountain bikes. The park also has 4.5 miles of off-road trails ideal for bikes, especially fat tire ones. The nearby Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway also has multi-use trails.
Horseback Riding at Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State park equestrian trails are open from 8am to one hour before sunset each day. These trails begin on State Road 40 about 1.3 miles east of the park’s main entrance and follow along through the wetland area around the park.
Birding at Silver Springs State Park
The park’s various habitats attract both native and migratory birds. And Silver Springs is the east section of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Look for ducks, wild turkey, warblers, quail, thrushes, vireos, kestrels and woodpeckers.
Nature and Wildlife at Silver Springs State Park
A visit to Silver Springs State Park is an opportunity to see various types of wildlife such as deer, fox, birds, alligators, turtles, squirrels, armadillos, bobcats and snakes. Grab a wildlife guide at the ranger station to learn more.
Pets at Silver Springs State Park
Pets are allowed at Silver Springs State Park but must be leashed and supervised. Pets are not allowed on the glass bottom boats, in any buildings or cabins. Service animals are not considered pets and allowed anywhere inside the park.
Camping at Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park has shaded campsites and cabins, and a separate primitive group camping area along the Silver River.
The 59 large campsites are ideal for RVs, trailers and tents. Each site has electric and water hookups, a picnic table, fire ring and grill. And are conveniently located near bathhouses.
The primitive site, for organized groups only, has picnic tables, a fire ring and a boat launch for kayaks and canoes.
Cabins have 2 bedrooms, bath, full kitchen, dining area and screened in porch with rocking chairs and a picnic table. Each cabin can comfortably sleep up to 6 people. A two night minimum stay is required and pets are not allowed in the cabin area.
Park Location
Silver Springs State Park
5656 E Silver Springs Blvd
Silver Springs, FL 34488
Phone: 352.261.5840
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Silver Springs State Park:
Leave A Comment