Are you looking for the best things to do in Juniper Springs? If so, this list should give you lots of ideas and inspiration!
Juniper Springs is a truly amazing place to visit, and there are so many things to do in Juniper Springs to enjoy!
Juniper Springs is located inside of the Ocala National Forest, and it’s just packed with fun activities that are suitable for the whole family.
However, if you’re not familiar with this wonderful recreation area and the Juniper Springs area, you might be stuck trying to create the perfect itinerary of things to do in Juniper Springs. Well hopefully I can help!
So, if you’d like to save yourself some valuable planning time, be sure to read ahead for our comprehensive guide to visiting Juniper Springs, including plenty of ideas for things to do in Juniper Springs.
With information on things to do in the area, where to stay, how to park, and how to get there, you’ll have the perfect trip planned in no time!
Settle in travel bugs, as we’re about to drop some premium knowledge on Juniper Springs!
11 Things to do in Juniper Springs…
Ready to find out the best things to do in Juniper Springs? Let’s go!
The Juniper Run in Juniper Springs
One of the most popular things to do in Juniper Springs is the Juniper Run.
If you haven’t heard of the Juniper Run, it’s a famous paddling trail that runs from Juniper Springs Recreation Area to Juniper Wayside Park.
Though it’s only 7 miles, the paddling here can be very technical, so we don’t recommend trying your hand at this run unless you consider yourself an experienced paddler!
If you do happen to be a great paddler though, you absolutely must include the Juniper Run on your list of things to do in Juniper Springs – it’s just fabulous and a great way to see the best of the Juniper Springs area, so had to be at the top of my list of things to do in Juniper Springs.
Hike the Florida Trail
If you’d rather explore Juniper Springs by foot, then why not try your hand at the Florida Trail? It’s a great option for things to do in Juniper Springs.
With plenty of awesome vegetation to check out, it’s a great way to get those steps in whilst appreciating the true beauty of Ocala National Forest.
The entire forest is open to backpackers and hikers, so you should be able to explore any area that you wish to provide you stick to marked paths and stay safe.
Just be sure to take your time and bring along some great hiking boots as you’re sure to need some great ankle support on this trail.
It’s such a popular choice for things to do in Juniper Springs, and I think you’ll love it.
Fern Hammock Springs
We couldn’t write a list of things to do in Juniper Springs without mentioning the springs themselves. You can’t exactly visit Juniper Springs without heading to one of the springs, can you?
With a constant temperature of approximately 72 degrees year-round, it’s an amazing place to relax and unwind. This is one of the best things to do in Juniper Springs, and it’s a favorite amongst visitors.
Silver Glen Springs
Next on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs, it’s another Spring!
Silver Glen Springs is another beautiful option, and one you’ll absolutely adore visiting whilst you’re in Juniper Springs.
Sweetwater Springs
And one last suggestion for springs in the Juniper Springs area… it’s the Sweetwater Springs. Another beautiful spring to visit and another beautiful place where you can get back to nature and relax!
The springs in this area really are the best things to do in Juniper Springs, and can’t be missed! Another wonderful choice for things to do in Juniper Springs.
Go for a snorkel or a swim in Juniper Springs
Next up on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs, it’s snorkeling and swimming! Juniper Springs Recreation Area is the perfect place to go snorkelling or swimming.
As the water is temperate and clear, it provides a great opportunity to water revellers that are looking to do something different and perfect if you’re looking for unique things to do in Juniper Springs.
As you’re surrounding by lush greenery, you’ll truly feel transported if you decide to snorkel or swim here. Just don’t forget your bathing suit and goggles!
It’s a great addition to your list of things to do in Juniper Springs.
Ocala National Forest near Juniper Springs
Close to Juniper Springs, Ocala National Forest is next on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs.
Ocala National Forest is truly wonderful, and a wonderfully scenic place to explore during your trip to Juniper Springs. Make sure you add it to your list of things to do in Juniper Springs!
Go horse riding in Juniper Springs
You read that right, Juniper Springs is an excellent place to get your horse riding game perfected, so horse riding had to make our list of things to do in Juniper Springs.
There are more than 100 miles of equestrian trails that run through the area, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. This is such a fun choice for things to do in Juniper Springs.
The 100-mile trail is divided into 3 loops, so you can easily cut a ride short by trying just one loop or challenge yourself by trying all 3!
There’s so much lovely scenery around Juniper Springs, and this is a great way to see it.
Give the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail a whirl
Next up on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs, it’s the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail. If you’re an avid cyclist looking for a great challenge, then why not try out the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail?
Though it’s a long one at 22 miles, it’s packed with great sights, interesting loops, and lake stop offs.
We do recommend this trail in Juniper Springs for the more experienced hikers due to the scrub and soft sand in some areas, it’s usually manageable for most!
For those who love cycling… this really is one of the best things to do in Juniper Springs.
Juniper Prairie Wilderness
Juniper Prairie Wilderness is next on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs. This wonderful wilderness has the job of protecting the heart of the Big Scrub, which is a 14,283-acre wilderness!
There are so many things to see here, and it’s an absolutely incredible place for nature-lovers and adventurers. I think you’ll love this choice of things to do in Juniper Springs especially if you love a bit of adventure.
Amrit Yoga Institute in Juniper Springs
Next on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs, it’s the Amrit Yoga Institute.
If you love yoga and holistic wellbeing, then this is certainly somewhere you’ll want to pay a trip to.
Yoga is such a powerful tool for wellbeing and self-care, and this is a great hub of yoga and wellness in the Juniper Springs area!
Rent a kayak in Juniper Springs
Next on my list of things to do in Juniper Springs… There is kayaking! If you don’t have your own kayak, you can actually rent one from the Juniper Springs recreational area – so it’s a great option.
It’s a really amazing way to see the local area, and kayaking is a wonderful way to spend time outdoors in this beautiful part of the country!
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Juniper Springs, you can’t go wrong with kayaking. It’s a classic choice.
Glass Bottom Boat @ Silver Springs
The glass bottom boat at Silver Springs is a really fun activity for a morning or afternoon in Juniper Springs! If you’re not quite in the mood for swimming or taking a dip – this is a great way to see the Springs and experience the beauty!
This is a great choice of things to do in Juniper Springs for families with kids too, and a great way to see the local wildlife and scenery in Juniper Springs.
Places to stay in Juniper Springs…
So now you know about all the best things to do in Juniper Springs… it’s time to figure out where to stay!
Ready to find somewhere great to stay in Juniper Springs? These are my top choices…
Camping in Juniper Springs
Though it’s not for everybody, we highly recommend camping at Juniper Springs.
Not only is it the cheapest option for overnight stayers, it’s also a great way to get back to basics and feel as though you’re truly escaping from the stresses of normal life.
It’s also a great way to make the most out of the various things to do in Juniper Springs – as you’ll be close by to lots of the activities. If you’re looking for somewhere to set up camp, be sure to check out one of the sites below:
- Juniper Springs Recreation Area
- Salt Springs Recreation Area
- Silver Springs State Park
- Alexander Springs Recreation Area
Though we can’t tell you which campsite is going to be the ‘best’ (that’s all down to personal preference!), most of these campgrounds support RVs and tents, so you’ll just need to decide whether you’re after a more bustling campsite or a quieter and more reserved one!
Runaway Bay Lodge in Juniper Springs
One of the most popular places to stay for people visiting Juniper Springs is the Runaway Bay Lodge.
Located close to the springs and a great base for those also looking to be near dining and sightseeing spots, it’s perhaps the perfect non-camping option for visitors to the area. This is a great place to stay in Juniper Springs.
Silver Springs Cabin
Another great choice of where to stay in Juniper Springs… If you’re looking for a slightly more upmarket option that’s has all the amenities that you tend to miss when you’re amidst nature, then Silver Springs Cabin is an excellent choice.
With a kitchen, balcony, separate bedroom and almighty Wi-Fi, you’re sure to feel at home in any of the cosy cabins here!
Where to park in Juniper Springs
If you’re heading to Juniper Springs for the day to check out some of the best things to do in Juniper Springs… You’ll want to pick somewhere good to park.
You’ll be pleased to know that there is a large parking area in Juniper Springs that is available for daily use. If you’re here to camp or backpack, then you will be charged for parking, so bear this in mind.
How to get to Juniper Springs
If you’re heading to Juniper Springs in a car, then you’ll want to drive east through Ocala and Silver Springs from Interstate 75 at SR in Ocala.
From here you should reach the Ocala National Forest. In case you were wondering, it’s approximately 28 miles from I-75 to the recreation area.
If you’re in any doubt though, we recommend asking for directions or using trusty Google Maps to avoid getting lost!
We hope that this guide to visiting Juniper Springs has been helpful.
When you’re planning a trip in nature, it can be difficult figuring out your lodging and activities as it can seem overwhelming at times. So, we hope that we’ve given you a great heads tart that will make this your best trip yet!
