Between Jacksonville And Orlando Lies A Natural Spring Haven In Ocala National Forest

Florida has more miles of coastline than any state in the contiguous U.S. However, its water features are not all coastal. As if its share of America's most beautiful shorelines wasn't enough, Florida also has several natural springs across its interior. One particular Florida springs destination stands out for its unsurpassed blend of natural beauty, ecological significance, and recreational activities. Just one hour north of Orlando by car and two hours south of Jacksonville, Florida's Alexander Springs Recreation Area is a natural spring haven tucked away in a lush Florida forest preserve. 

Alexander Springs is something of a microcosm of Florida's exceptional natural resources on both land and in the water. The spring itself maintains consistently warm temperatures similar to the state's warmest and sunniest beaches. These warm waters stretch over a soft sand foundation that would not look out of place on a sunny beach in Miami or the Florida Keys. What sets Alexander Springs apart from Florida's beach destinations, however, is its surrounding environment of towering forest canopies and biodiverse subtropical ecosystems. Such a setting is undeniably lovely, but Alexander Springs' status as a "recreation area" tucked in the Ocala National Forest comes from its comprehensive offerings of outdoor activities, both in the spring waters themselves and on dry land. Regardless of whether you want to get wet or stay dry, the Alexander Springs Recreation Area is a can't-miss escape into Florida's interior wilderness and a perfect way to get acquainted with the state's lesser-known freshwater gems. 

Alexander Springs is a particularly stunning example of the many natural springs across Central Florida. Other Florida spring destinations include top stops like Ichetucknee Springs State Park and its superb swimming and paddling opportunities. Unique to Alexander Springs, however, is its combination of easy access and a lush, biodiverse setting. One of only 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida, and one of only two in a federally managed area, Alexander Springs draws from the Alexander Springs Creek and a network of natural vents to form a jewel-like pool of clear, blue water. 

Alexander Springs measures just 300 feet by 250 feet. A small size, though, often means a more intimate, immersive experience, and Alexander Springs is no exception. More importantly for would-be swimmers, the spring maintains a consistent temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The environment around Alexander Springs showcases Florida's beautiful forest ecology. The Alexander Springs Recreation Area is part of the much larger Ocala National Forest. Though not far from the attractions of some of Florida's largest cities, Ocala National Forest protects approximately 387,000 acres of biodiverse forests, wetlands, and rivers. Being part of a federal nature reserve, Alexander Springs enjoys a backdrop of exquisite floodplain forests and canopies of maple, sweetgum, and cabbage palm trees. The national forest setting also links the Alexander Springs Recreation Area to the less developed Alexander Springs Wilderness and its complex ecosystems of swamps, hammock forests, and rare and ancient sand pine scrub groves. 

While many of the world's most famous hot springs are ideal for relaxing getaways, Alexander Springs' water quality and infrastructure allow for much more active immersion. As a swimming hole with warm (but not too hot) and relatively shallow water, Alexander Springs is ideal for visitors of all ages. Both the beach and swimming area itself lie along a gentle slope that's perfect for casually wading into the water at your preferred pace. 

Other than swimming, Alexander Springs is wonderful for kayaking or canoeing trips through Ocala National Forest. Prospective paddlers can even rent canoes from an on-site outfitter. Alexander Springs connects to the 6-mile Alexander Run through the ravishing Alexander Springs Wilderness, and to Florida's St. Johns River via a 14-mile paddling route. With clear water and a lack of currents, Alexander Springs is also a great spot for snorkeling. And, as the only place in Ocala National Forest allowing scuba diving, Alexander Springs is arguably one of Florida's best dive sites for beginner scuba divers. 

The Alexander Springs Campground has 67 campsites spread out across four loops near the swimming area. Campers and day-visitors alike have access to Alexander Springs' easy 12-mile hiking loop and 0.9-mile interpretive trail. Ocala National Forest's biodiversity gives hikers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Alexander Springs is also a great base camp for exploring Florida's many spring-adjacent communities. For example, 90 minutes away is the laid-back river city of Green Cove Springs and its natural spring park, where travelers can find a more urban spring experience.