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If you’re going for the swimming or kayaking — absolutely amazing. Not a fan of the extremely loud music some people bring with them but to each their own. The water is amazingly clear and the surrounding environment is definitely a compliment to its beauty. However, the gift shop was underwhelming. I expected momentums and keepsakes. Magnets, stickers, shirts, picture frames, towels…fun things. Besides a few general “Ocala” branded things like a trucker hat or a mug that says “Juniper Springs” on it with a very cookie cutter Cricut design on it, there wasn’t much else to buy and take home which was disappointing. They did sell packaged ice cream for the freezer and some basic snacks in the shelf. There were two tables in the a/c to sit and eat food at which is nice. I was surprised at the lack of detail.
Aside from that, kayaking is a pleasure but not for beginner paddlers. On a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most difficult to paddle, I would put Juniper Springs at a 2.5, right in the middle.
You can expect to haul your gear (with a kayak cart that they provide) to the launch. You will have to return the cart. Be sure to park a car at the end because that car is going to be your transport for your gear. We parked at the end, drove the park, launched, and used that vehicle to get us back to the park, where we retrieved our second car and drove back to pick up the kayaks. We left a friend with the kayaks to watch the gear.
It is a 7 mile trip with some decent currents and curves. If you don’t know how to take a quick curve, this is not the run for you just yet.
Rapids at the 5 mile mark. Fun and easy but get ready to use that upper body strength to turn or you will flip.
Lots of spiders but all...
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It was an #Beautiful #day here at Juniper Springs. Of course the water is always a brisk 72°. The water was crystal clear. Even though there was quite a few people . It's a smaller park. There are a couple small trails that basically go around in a circle. I noticed quite a few have been closed due to flooding damage. It's $12 a person to get in unless you're a national park pass holder. I am only a state park passholder. Jacqueline was very nice at the entrance. She explained to me and even wrote down the website to obtain my own pass, which also gives you discounts on camping and other actor activities. Juniper Springs is located in the Ocala national forest. It goes around the Lake George out into the St John River. This is the perfect time of year before we start getting into hurricane season A lot of the #rivers in the Northeast Florida flood. The springs become cloudy and very brown. There's a #Beautiful little waterfall next to the #watermill. Running down into the creek that runs out into the lake. At the entrance there are plenty of tables and chairs for you to sit and enjoy your lunch. Or you can sit around the spring. There's is a Ledge Even in the forest, it was 95° with the breeze blowing through the trees. Spring is the perfect way to cool off in the summer when it's hot 🏞️🔥🏖️ They also have #campsites available different sizes. Some with barbecues. The rangers have all the information at the entrance....
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The moment you step into the clear, cool waters of Juniper Springs, the world outside fades away. Swimming here is not just allowed; it’s a joy. The water is refreshing, and with ample space to splash around or float peacefully, it’s the perfect way to beat the Florida heat. The staff deserves a shoutout for their dedication to keeping the place spotless and welcoming.
But it’s not all about the fun. Bathing in these mineral-rich waters comes with a bonus—health benefits. The soothing effects on the skin, improved circulation, and the stress relief are palpable. Being surrounded by such serene nature amplifies these benefits, enhancing your sense of well-being.
There’s more to do than just swim. With kayaking, hiking trails, and spots for bird watching, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. And with picnic areas scattered around, it’s perfect for a day out with friends or family.
Now, for the practical part: the entry ticket is $12 per person, which is a small price to pay for such a pristine natural experience. It’s worth every penny for the cleanliness, the activities available, and, of course, the health benefits of the spring water.
So, if you’re in search of a getaway that offers relaxation, adventure, and a touch of wellness, Juniper Springs checks all the boxes. Dive in, the water’s fine, and the experience is...
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