This natural flowing spring is one of the top canoe runs in America, set under a dense canopy of old-growth forest. Juniper Run is ideal for more experienced paddlers seeking a true aquatic adventure. A fee of $4 is imposed for launching personal canoes or kayaks. to sundown 365 days a year, and a $2 per person fee is required for entrance. Silver Springs State Park is the best access point for the Silver River, as it is home to a variety of amenities for boaters including canoe and kayak launches, paddling, rentals, shower stations, restrooms, and more. Wildlife abounds at the river with manatees, turtles, otters, ospreys, anhingas, and more all seen along the banks. Here, the clear waters and lush subtropical vegetation make this one of the most scenic rivers in Florida. Located in Silver Springs State Park, the river itself allows kayakers, canoers, and paddle boarders to experience a natural forest surrounded by some of the state’s best-managed sandhills. Silver River is fed directly by Silver Springs, which is the largest natural artesian spring in the world, producing 550 million gallons of water per day. KP Hole also has an entrance fee of $5 per user and hand-launch vessels, $20 per motorized vessel, and $25 per person for a tubing package that includes entry fee, tube rental, and return shuttle service. The crystal-clear waters are the perfect place for snorkeling, tubing, canoeing, diving, and boating. KP Hole Park is also on the spring-fed Rainbow River and is open 8 a.m. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle for up to 8 passengers, and a $2 fee to enter the headsprings for guests ages 6 and older. to sunset and has a variety of amenities including parking, restroom, showers, picnic pavilions, concession and restaurants, a playground and more. Rainbow Springs State Park is open 8 a.m. It’s the perfect place to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The river maintains a cool 72-degree temperature year-round, perfect for a refresh from those balmy Florida days. Rainbow RiverĪnchored by the stunning natural landmark of Rainbow Springs State Park, the Rainbow River in Dunnellon is a family-friendly river shimmering with silver and turquoise hues, surrounded by towering palm trees, ferns, gardens, and waterfalls. With so many options to be found, we took the time to highlight some of the best spots in the destination to kick back and float.
The area is ideal for boaters, kayakers, canoers and tubers alike to drift along the glassy, cool waters in picturesque surroundings. As a destination with more than 600 lakes, rivers and springs, it is no wonder that Ocala/Marion County is the perfect place to enjoy a day on the water!