17 Ocala Natural Springs Vacation ideas

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Ocala/Marion County VCB. All opinions are 100% mine.

If you are looking for a gorgeous place to play and explore Ocala/Marion County, Florida is the place for you. Whether you are a retiree, an adventurer, or a young family there is something for everyone at the Ocala/Marion County, Natural Springs. I love a vacation at the beach, but I am also a big fan of experiencing new and exciting things that I have never done before. Here are 17 ways you can celebrate life in a brand new way. Ocala Natural Springs are full of new adventures waiting just for you. One of my favorite spots is Juniper Springs which is full of historical campgrounds that date back all the way to the 1930’s! This campground is available all year as it is the perfect getaway and shaded perfectly under a canopy of trees. The water remains at the perfect temperature of 72 degrees F all year round and makes this destination a perfect place to relax and escape! This campground area is perfect for a family as it is conveniently located near a small shop selling snacks, groceries, firewood, groceries, and ice. You can also enjoy a hot shower, convenient parking, drinking fountains, ATM’s, restrooms, and picnic tables.

Swimming in the natural springs.

Did you know that swimming is actually beneficial to your health? It has been proven to reduce stress, aid skin problems, relieve pain, and increase blood circulation! So pull on that suit and get ready for a soak!

Canoeing.

The Juniper Springs run, named one of the top 25 runs in all of America, is a one mile trip that takes you on a beautiful ride through the gorgeous layers of lake trees and waterways. If you would like to bring your own canoe you are welcome to do so, or you can rent one for $33 a day.

Snorkeling.

The water is really that clear! If you are looking for a fun photo opportunity don’t forget your underwater camera! This is the perfect place to explore and take some fun pictures.

Hiking.

Whether you are a skilled hiker or a beginner you can find miles and miles of trails to choose from in the Ocala National Forest. You can find a complete list of hiking trails and amenities here.

Birding.

If you love exploring the outdoors and finding wildlife in its natural environment this is the perfect place for an adventure. You can expect to see alligators, turtles, deer, black bear, turkey, raccoons, and many birds.

Horse Back Riding.

If you are a lover of all things equestrian, this is the place for you. You can enjoy a day of horse back riding through the canopies of trees or even visit a horse farm, horse show, or other horse venues. You have never seen more beautiful horses!

Ziplining.

Biking.

Birding.

Boating.

Boating has always been near and dear to my heart and I love that it is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages at the same time! The Ray Wayside Park (Ocala Boat Basin) offers boat ramps that are perfect for embarking on a day in the boat or swimming. You can also enjoy fishing, a playground, a picnic pavilion and restrooms.

Fishing.

Hunting.

If you are an outdoorsmen/woman who loves to hunt you can enjoy the outdoors and hunt in the Ocala National forest, Goethe trailhead, Salt Springs, or even the shooting range. Keep in mind that you will need a Florida hunting license to enjoy these activities.

Tubing.

Scuba Dive.

You can explore the waters of Paradise Springs away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the calm, clear waters. It really is an oasis of beauty!

Motorsports.

Hunt for Fossils.

My son loves to hunt for rocks and fossils and it can often be hard to find an authentic fossil ground without feeling like you are damaging a historical site. At Silver Glen Springs visitors are allowed to look for stone tools or historic shells that were created and piled by Native Americans thousands of years ago! You can take photos of the trees that have grown over the shell deposits that make the trees look like they are growing in mid-air!

Waterways.

Dine Out.

Ocala Natural Springs is beautiful and if you are wanting to celebrate Memorial Day in a special way you may want to consider attending Vet’s memorial park as a special way to honor our veterans. If you are a veteran please consider staying at one of the many hotels/cabins that offer a discount to save you money on your stay.

You can find more on Florida Travel and Ocala/Marion County Activities here.

Ocala/Marion County Activities Keep in mind that there are many options available for Ocala/Marion County Lodging. You can choose from hotels, cabins, vacation rentals or camping grounds to fit the kind of experience you are looking for in Ocala/Marion County! What experience are you going to try next? Ocala Natural Springs is waiting for you! You might also like: