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You Can't Go Wrong on the Timucuan by Barrett If you find yourself some day in the jungles of central Florida's Ocala National Forest, there's a little gem called Alexander Springs you should head straight for. 70 million gallons a day of crystal clear 72 degree water rise through the Earth and form an amazing pool that makes for prime swimming, snorkeling, and even SCUBA diving. An entrance fee of $5.50 gets you into the recreation area, which includes bathrooms, ramadas, grills, concessions, and a campground, all within a short walk from the springs. Around the pool itself the Timucuan Trail allows you to enter the otherwise almost impenetrable jungle, complete with boardwalk sections over the swamp and interpretive signs illustrating the plants and animals of the area. Named after the Timucuan Tribe that inhabited the area near the springs 1000 years ago, the trail winds through four separate natural environments (Aquatic, Swamp/Riverbottom, Oak Hammock, and Sand Pine Scrub) while poking it's head out twice on the spring pool itself via small docks. The ground can be muddy depending on rain, and the boardwalk sections have sunk and twisted on their pilings, so although it's a million times better than hacking through with a machete, it's not exactly wheelchair friendly. Fishing from the docks is permitted, and there are also kayak rentals to add to the ways you can experience the area, just keep in mind that even though it's far from civilization, people come from all over the world to check it out. Weekends during the warmer months can pack the place, but we were the only ones in the springs on a Wednesday morning in April, and the water was perfect. Other than not allowing alcohol in the day use area, it might just be the perfect swimming hole. ( Of course there is always the campground! ) Check out the Triplog. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
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WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Most recent Triplog Review
Timucuan Trail - Ocala NF
Timucuan Trail - Ocala NF
My family camped at these springs 40 years ago, and we couldn't pass up the opportunity to see them again.
My wife Karen and I flew in for a week at The Villages (words fall short) to visit with my Dad and his wife Barb. Our two nieces and nephew, who we haven't seen in 5 years, also flew down to escape the still icy north.
We arrived at the springs and almost had the place to ourselves, with everyone making it out to the "boil" with snorkeling gear to take in the amazing view underneath. The main vents form a funnel about 30 feet deep, and the water is ridiculously clear, flowing out with such strength it's almost impossible to approach the vent itself.
After warming up in the sun for a bit and lunch, we hit the Timucuan Trail, appreciating the view but being reminded of why I love hiking in the desert. I can't imagine trying to plow through this stuff in the summer with heat, humidity, mosquitos, and poison ivy everywhere.
My wife Karen and I flew in for a week at The Villages (words fall short) to visit with my Dad and his wife Barb. Our two nieces and nephew, who we haven't seen in 5 years, also flew down to escape the still icy north.
We arrived at the springs and almost had the place to ourselves, with everyone making it out to the "boil" with snorkeling gear to take in the amazing view underneath. The main vents form a funnel about 30 feet deep, and the water is ridiculously clear, flowing out with such strength it's almost impossible to approach the vent itself.
After warming up in the sun for a bit and lunch, we hit the Timucuan Trail, appreciating the view but being reminded of why I love hiking in the desert. I can't imagine trying to plow through this stuff in the summer with heat, humidity, mosquitos, and poison ivy everywhere.
2015-04-08 Barrett
