Ocala National Forest – Image Gallery
Ocala National Forest
The Ocala National Forest is a vast and diverse wilderness area in central Florida known for its natural springs, diverse wildlife, and extensive trail system. - National Forest Official WebsiteDetails
Ocala National Forest
The Ocala National Forest is located in central Florida and covers over 600 square miles. It is the southernmost forest in the United States and is known for its diverse ecosystems and unique features.
Features:
- Over 600 lakes, rivers, and springs
- The largest sand pine scrub forest in the world
- Miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails
- Scenic drives, including the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway
- Historic sites, such as the remains of an old steamboat dock
Ecological Significance:
The Ocala National Forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the area. The forest provides habitat for endangered species, such as the Florida scrub jay and the red-cockaded woodpecker. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality in the region, with its numerous lakes, rivers, and springs serving as important sources of freshwater.
Additionally, the forest is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from around the world to its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether hiking through the sand pine scrub or paddling along the Juniper Run, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Ocala National Forest.
Ocala National Forest
Points of Interest
Most Popular Points of Interest in Ocala National Forest
- Silver Springs State Park: Known for its crystal-clear springs and glass-bottom boat tours, Silver Springs State Park is a must-visit attraction in the Ocala National Forest. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking in this beautiful park.
- Juniper Springs Recreation Area: Juniper Springs is another popular spot in the Ocala National Forest, offering opportunities for swimming, canoeing, and picnicking. The natural spring feeds into a pristine swimming hole surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Alexander Springs Recreation Area: Alexander Springs is a favorite destination for snorkeling and diving in the Ocala National Forest. The spring-fed swimming area is teeming with fish and other aquatic life, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Big Scrub Trail: The Big Scrub Trail is a scenic hiking trail that winds through the heart of the Ocala National Forest. This 8-mile loop trail offers hikers the chance to see diverse plant and animal life, including the rare Florida scrub jay.
- Fore Lake Recreation Area: Fore Lake is a tranquil spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking in the Ocala National Forest. The lake is surrounded by pine forests and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Ocala National Forest – Images
Description: Local call number: c037658 Title: Campers in Ocala National Forest Date: October 1961 Photographer: http://floridamemory.com/solr-search/results/?q=collection: Physical descrip: 1 photoprint - b&w - 5 x 4 in. Series Title: http://floridamemory.com/photographiccollection/collections/?id=6 Repository: http://www.floridamemory.com/, 500 S. Bronough St., Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250 USA. Contact: 850.245.6700. Archives@dos.state.fl.us Persistent URL: http://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/57988 Visit Florida Memory to learn more about the http://floridamemory.com/photographiccollection/photo_exhibits/tincans/, founded in Tampa, Florida.
Image by State Library and Archives of Florida – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Distant eastbound view of the Central Fire Lookout Tower along Florida State Road 40 across from the intersection with Northeast 231st Avenue (a.k.a.; Forest Road 88) in Ocala National Forest.
Image by DanTD – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Close-up view of the Central Fire Tower along Florida State Road 40 across from the intersection with Northeast 231st Avenue (a.k.a.; Forest Road 88) in Ocala National Forest.
Image by DanTD – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Farles Prairie in Ocala National Forest — located in northeastern Florida. In the Flooded grasslands and savannas biome.
Image by Sandra Friend – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: GRASSY PRAIRIE OCALA NATIONAL FOREST 579 & 569
Image by James Sotherden – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Persistent URL: floridamemory.com/items/show/322369 Local call number: PR78882 Title: Neal "Petey" Chapline Swalm cooking outdoors at campsite in the Ocala National Forest Date: ca. 1946 Physical descrip: 1 photoprint - b&w - 10 x 8 in. Series Title: Print Collections Repository: State Library and Archives of Florida 500 S. Bronough St., Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0250 USA, Contact: 850.245.6700, Archives@dos.myflorida.com
Image by Florida Memory – No restrictions – Wikimedia
Description: Persistent URL: floridamemory.com/items/show/322164 Local call number: PR78871 Title: Neal "Petey" Chapline Swalm ironing at campsite in the Ocala National Forest Date: ca. 1946 Physical descrip: 1 photoprint - b&w - 10 x 8 in. Series Title: Print Collections Repository: State Library and Archives of Florida 500 S. Bronough St., Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0250 USA, Contact: 850.245.6700, Archives@dos.myflorida.com
Image by Florida Memory – No restrictions – Wikimedia
Description: Ocala National Forest Midden No. 2 during excavation
Image by Bullen, Ripley P. and Bryant, William J., – CC0 – Wikimedia
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