Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area Vehicle Reservations
Timed entry · Florida ·
Managed by the USDA Forest Service
Ocala National Forest (NF) · Open Access
19 ft
Elevation
Photo: Naventure · Recreation.gov
Located on the western shore of Lake George, the 7 acre Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area is located on the eastern edge of the Ocala National Forest off State Road 19 approximately 6 miles north of the intersection of State Roads 40 and 19. The area, privately developed, has been under USDA Forest Service administration since 1990. The spring releases 65 million gallons of fresh water per day and a lush subtropical forest ecosystem surrounds the spring that is described as the most beautiful spring on the Ocala National Forest. It is here where Jody, from the book “The Yearling” fell asleep watching the hypnotic action of the “flutter mill” that he had built in the water. There are no overnight camping facilities. Snorkeling is permitted but no scuba diving is allowed.
This location is a seasonal sanctuary for manatees, due to its constantly 72-degree water temperatures. Dangerous wildlife such as bears, hogs, and venomous snakes frequent the area.
Timed 1-Day Personal Vehicle Reservation tickets will be required on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays between and including Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend.
Amenities include a walk-up store with snacks, beverages, and souvenirs, portable toilets, changing area, picnic tables, grills, bear-proof storage, and a canoe/kayak/SUP launch area.
Getting there
From I-75: Take exit 352 and head east on SR-40. After almost 35 miles, turn left on FL-19. Close to the 6 miles from there, the entrance to Silver Glen Springs is on the right.
From I-95: Take exit 268 and head west on SR-40. After almost 35 miles, turn right on FL-19. Close to the 6 miles from there, the entrance to Silver Glen Springs is on the right.
1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 14.4 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.
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