Generations of Floridians and travelers from all over the world have visited this picturesque spot in Florida’s Ocala National Forest (nicknamed the Big Scrub). Make plans to visit this beautiful part of natural Florida as soon as possible, and take this short hike to somewhere spectacular.
This hike is within the Ocala National Forest in Central Florida, the second largest national forest in the country.
Flickr/Jeff Weese
There are 14 developed campgrounds within the Ocala National Forest, but for this hike, you need to stay at the lovely Juniper Springs Recreation Area.
Flickr/Dani Tinker
This is one of the oldest and most popular campsites in the region. With its crystal-clear, refreshing water, it sits like a tropical oasis in the Big Scrub.
Flickr/anoldent
The adorable little millhouse and watermill, built in the 1930s, once supplied the campground’s electricity.
Flickr/anoldent
Just a short half-mile walk from Juniper Springs will lead you to the picturesque Fern Hammock Springs, which is nicknamed “The Aquarium,” for the constantly bubbling boils under the surface of the clear blue water.
Flickr/Bemep
You can’t swim in this delicate environment, but there’s a charming little footbridge that will let you get a closer look. Then you can return to the Juniper Springs campground and swim in water fed by the very same spring.
Flickr/Jaine
Have you ever been here? What’s your favorite hiking spot in Florida?
Flickr/Jeff Weese
Flickr/Dani Tinker
Flickr/anoldent
Flickr/Bemep
Flickr/Jaine
You can check out several more short hikes on our list of 8 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles That Everyone In Florida Should Take.
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