Ocala National Forest


The second-largest nationally protected forest in the state of Florida, Ocala National Forest is a treasure to be savored. Hidden within 607 square miles of pristine wilderness, you'll find longleaf pine, sand-pine scrub and coastal oak copses, as well some 600 springs, rivers and lakes. Miles of hiking, biking and horse-riding trails cut through Ocala's green, woodsy heart, which also contains a staggeringly diverse range of local wildlife.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Barberville Pioneer Settlement

17.41 MILES

Try to set aside at least an hour to fully explore old Barberville, a re-created pioneer settlement carved out of the central Florida woods. Costumed…

2. Silver Springs State Park

20.66 MILES

This state park was once an amusement park – glass-bottomed boats were invented here in 1878 to show visitors the natural springs and stunningly clear…

3. De Leon Springs State Park

21.42 MILES

Fifteen minutes north of town, these natural springs flow into the 18,000-acre Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge and were used by Native Americans…

4. Museum of Art – DeLand

26.65 MILES

A slate of innovative temporary exhibitions traipses across the gallery space and attractive atrium of this energetic local museum, which has been…

5. DeLand House Museum

26.68 MILES

This historical home, built in 1886, now serves as the headquarters of the West Volusia Historical Society and a museum for the county. You'll find lots…

6. Blue Spring State Park

27.97 MILES

The largest spring on the St Johns River, Blue Spring maintains a constant 72°F. Between November and March it becomes the winter refuge for up to 200…

7. Don Garlits Museums

29.05 MILES

Local drag racer Don 'Big Daddy' Garlits won 144 national events and 17 World Championship titles, shattering numerous records in hand-built breakneck…

8. Rock Springs Run State Reserve

29.08 MILES

This 14,000-acre reserve located 30 miles north of downtown Orlando offers 17 miles of hiking trails, and primitive riverside camping accessible by canoe…