Alexander Springs

Nestled in the heart of the Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is a hidden gem in central Florida. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and diverse wildlife, this natural haven offers a peaceful retreat for families & seniors looking to enjoy the beauty of nature. This article covers the history, amenities, costs, accessibility, camping options, dining, and tips to ensure a pleasurable visit.

Brief History

Alexander Springs has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The springs were named after the early settler John Alexander, who was among the first to discover the pristine waters. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by Native American tribes long before European settlers arrived. The springs have since been preserved as part of the Ocala National Forest, which was established in 1908, making it one of the oldest national forests in the eastern United States.

Amenities

Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit:

Swimming: The main attraction is the crystal-clear spring, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The water maintains a constant temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Picnicking: Numerous picnic tables and pavilions are available, providing a great spot for family gatherings and picnics. Grills are also provided for those who wish to barbecue.
Hiking: Several well-marked trails, including the Timucuan Trail (Which has been closed for repairs. Call before heading out here if you are interested in this trail), offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding forest.
Paddling: Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on the spring run, which eventually feed into the St. Johns River. Canoe rentals are available on-site.
Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Events

While Alexander Springs is primarily a natural recreation area, it occasionally hosts special events such as guided nature walks, educational programs, and volunteer clean-up days. It’s best to check the Ocala National Forest’s official website or contact the visitor center for information on upcoming events during your visit.

Costs

There is an entrance fee to access Alexander Springs Recreation Area. As of the time I wrote this, the fees are as follows:

Day-use fee: $11 per person
Canoe rental: Approximately $20 per hour or $35 for the day

Starting around Memorial Day Weekend and running through around Labor Day weekend, vehicle registration will be required for weekends and holidays. This is in addition to the day-use fees. The rates are $20 per vehicle plus a $2 reservation fee. If you cancel within 48 hours of your selected date, there is no refund.

These fees help maintain the facilities and preserve the natural beauty of the area. Seniors with a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass can receive discounts on entrance fees.

Accessibility

Alexander Springs Recreation Area is committed to providing accessibility for all visitors. Key accessible features include:

Parking: Designated handicapped parking spaces are available close to the main facilities.
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available near the picnic area and campground.
Paths and Trails: Paved pathways and boardwalks ensure easy access to the main spring, picnic areas, and other amenities.

Camping

Camping at Alexander Springs is a delightful experience, with several options available:

Campground: The campground offers 67 sites suitable for tents and RVs. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to potable water. There are no hook-ups available but there are restroom/shower facilities and a dump station.
Reservations: Reservations can be made through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the toll-free number. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Stays: The maximum stay is 14 days within a 30 day period.
RV Length: The maximum RV length is 35’

Dining Options

While there are no formal dining establishments within the Alexander Springs Recreation Area, several options are available:

Picnic Areas: Bring your own food and enjoy a meal at one of the many picnic tables or pavilions. Grills are available for cooking.
Nearby Restaurants: The towns surrounding the Ocala National Forest, such as Astor and Umatilla, offer a variety of dining options ranging from casual diners to sit-down restaurants.

Is It a Good Place to Take Kids & Grandkids?

Alexander Springs is an excellent destination for a family outing, including kids & grandkids. The shallow, clear waters of the spring are ideal for children to swim and play safely. Additionally, the educational programs and abundant wildlife provide great learning opportunities for young minds.

Tips for a Pleasurable Visit

Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially on weekends and holidays, arrive early in the day.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months, to stay hydrated while exploring the area.
Bug Protection: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent, so bring insect repellent to ensure a comfortable visit.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the strong Florida sun.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed animals. This helps preserve the natural environment and ensures safety for both visitors and wildlife.
Pack Accordingly: Bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and camping gear if you plan to stay overnight. The nearest stores may be some distance away.
Put Food in Sealed Tubs. There are numerous turkey vultures that fly around looking for food. If you leave food on the table even if it’s in a bag, they will swoop down and help themselves. I have seen them swoop down from a tree, pop open a bag of Doritos, and devour the entire bag (family size!!!) in minutes…lol

Final Thoughts

This park fills up quickly on weekends and holidays. The addition of reserved parking is expensive, but I believe it does help with the craziness. I recommend, if at all possible, coming here during the week, not on weekends. It’s not only cheaper (you save the parking fees) but it’s also much quieter.

Also, I just want to say that the campground area is beautiful. The concessionaire sells snacks, groceries, ice, charcoal, firewood, beach items, and personal items.

One more thing I should mention, if you love using the springs that this concessionaire operates (Alexander Springs, Silver Glen Springs, and Juniper Springs. Those are the 3 big ones) then you should consider buying their annual pass. This will get you in for unlimited visits for a year. You will still need to buy a car reservation ticket for weekends and holidays though.

I try to be as accurate as I possibly can with the details of any post I write. Keep in mind that things change due to storms, pricing, and maintenance issues. I always recommend before heading out on any trip checking the official website for updated announcements, closures, and fees. I have included a link to Alexander Springs’ website below for your convenience.

Alexander Springs Official Website

Concessionaire Website

Check out my Short YouTube video of Alexander Springs: Use the Link Below
Alexander Springs Video

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