Alexander Springs: Florida's Hidden Gem in Ocala National Forest
- Chrissa Karnes
- May 13
- 4 min read
If you’re looking for a crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by lush forest and teeming with wildlife, let me introduce you to one of Florida’s most underrated treasures: Alexander Springs.
Tucked away in the heart of Ocala National Forest, this first-magnitude spring is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
Why Visit Alexander Springs?
Alexander Springs is one of the few springs in Florida where you can swim, snorkel, paddle, and even scuba dive all in one spot. The water stays a refreshing 72 degrees year-round and is so clear that you can see straight to the sandy bottom—even from a kayak.
What sets Alexander Springs apart is its wide, shallow spring run and large swimming basin. It’s incredibly family-friendly and ideal for floating, wading, and exploring.
The Swimming Area: Spacious, Shallow, and Stunning
The swimming area at Alexander Springs is massive—one of the largest and most open of all the Florida springs. Unlike springs with narrow access points or steep drop-offs, Alexander Springs gradually slopes into the water, creating a gentle beach-like entry that’s perfect for kids, beginners, and anyone looking for an easy wade-in.
The bottom is mostly soft sand, with occasional rocky patches and water grasses near the edges. You’ll find plenty of shallow spots where the water is waist- or chest-deep, and the main spring vent creates a beautiful, deeper pool for swimming and snorkeling. The clarity is phenomenal making it feel like you're swimming in a natural aquarium.
Snorkelers will love peeking at the freshwater fish, turtles, and waving eelgrass below the surface.
And if you’re up for it, certified divers can even explore the deeper spring vent at the head of the basin.
Paddle the Spring Run: A Jungle-Like Escape
If you’re up for a little adventure, rent a kayak or canoe right onsite and explore the Alexander Springs Run—a slow-moving, palm-fringed waterway that feels like a secret jungle passage.
The run stretches for roughly 6 miles from the spring head to St John's River. And is about a mile to the CR 445 bridge. It's a peaceful out-and-back paddle with very little current, making it beginner-friendly and easy to navigate in either direction.
As you paddle, expect to see wading birds, turtles, fish, and maybe even an otter or a lazy gator sunbathing along the bank. The water is so clear you’ll see aquatic plants swaying below and fish darting around your boat.
What’s especially magical is the tunnel-like canopy of palms, cypress, and hardwoods that surround you along the way. It’s shaded, quiet, and feels totally removed from the busy world outside.
Hike the Timucuan Trail
After the water, take a break on land with the Timucuan Trail, a short but scenic loop that winds through tropical palm hammocks and wetland boardwalks. You’ll catch elevated views of the spring head and maybe spot wildlife along the way.
NOTE: During our visit in April 2025, the Timucuan Trail was CLOSED for renovations due to hurricane damage.
Explore the Alexander Springs Loop Trail
If you're looking to stretch your legs a little further, the Alexander Springs Loop Trail is a fantastic add-on. This 2.3-mile loop is located just outside the main recreation area and offers a peaceful escape into the surrounding longleaf pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks.
The trail is well-marked and relatively flat, making it an easy hike for most skill levels. You'll pass through a mix of shaded forest and open areas, with occasional boardwalks to help you traverse wetter spots. It’s a great way to spot woodpeckers, butterflies, wildflowers, deer and even black bears in the early morning or evening hours.
Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and keep your eyes peeled for interpretive signs along the way. If you enjoy birding or photography, this trail offers plenty of quiet corners to explore.
Camping at Alexander Springs
Want to turn your day trip into a full-on forest escape? You can! Alexander Springs Campground has 67 campsites nestled under the trees, offering plenty of shade and a peaceful retreat just steps from the water.
There are sites for both tents and RVs, and while there are no hookups, you will find flush toilets, hot showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and a dump station on site. It's a clean and well-maintained campground that still feels wild and close to nature.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons and weekends, and can be made through Recreation.gov.
Tips for Your Visit
Get there early: The park fills up quickly on weekends and holidays.
Water shoes recommended: The spring bottom has a few rocky areas.
Bring a snorkel or goggles: The underwater views are incredible especially near the head spring.
Keep it clean: This is a protected area—pack it in, pack it out.
Picnic-ready: There are plenty of shaded picnic tables and charcoal grills available near the water.
Know Before You Go
Location: 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL 32702
Entrance Fee: $14 per person (subject to change)
Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (with the possibility of closing later seasonally)
Rentals: Kayaks and canoes available on site (prices subject to change)
Single Kayaks:
$30 for 2 hours
$40 for 4 hours
$50 for 6 hours
Canoe/Tandem Kayaks:
$40 for 2 hours
$50 for 4 hours
$60 for 6 hours
Paddleboards:
$30 for 2 hours
$40 for 4 hours
$50 for 6 hours
Camping: Available year-round (book on recreation.gov)
If you would like to see our visit in video form, check out the video below:
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