Silver Springs is one of Florida’s most famous state parks. We went there today and truly enjoyed to beauty of the park. We first went to the entrance that leads to the campgrounds and the main hiking trails. Here we paid our $8 entrance fee. The ranger directed us to the north entrance, and our receipt got us in there too.
The entrance from the parking lot
The entrance from the huge parking lot is quite impressive. Once past the long walkway we got to an area that overlooked the water. In addition there was a large strip building that looked like a shopping mall. There was a restaurant, ice crea store and a gift shop open. It turns out that there were also meeting rooms and an outdoor amphitheater for large groups to host events in this complex.
Some of the big fish swiming over the eel grass
The water was really striking in its clarity. These springs are the largest in the country and discharge about 500 million gallons a day! You could see the bottom no matter how deep the water was.
We only saw this bird’s head: he spent most of the time underwater fishing!
Glass bottom boat
We were considering taking one of the famous glass bottom boat trips. Just then a tour bus load of people showed up, and we found out that the next available trip was after the tour had their boat rides. Maybe the next time we visit we’ll take the glass bottom boat trip.
This bird repeatedly ducked his head in the water then vigorously splashed the water with his wings for about 15 seconds.
Silver Springs State Park should be on your list of attractions when you are in the Ocala area. The scenery is pretty, there is lots of wildlife to see, and their trails are fun to walk.
Here is one photo that leaves no question as to when it was taken!
Roadtirement 