Vacationers swarm to Florida for the state’s gorgeous beaches, the Orlando theme parks and the Everglades. Often overlooked by visitors are the wonders of massive Ocala National Forest.
The forest, located about a 90-minute drive north of Orlando, encompases 387,000 acres. It is the oldest national forest in Florida and the southernmost forest in the continental United States.
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More than 600 lakes and rivers for swimming, fishing, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking and boating are in Ocala National Forest, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Hundreds of miles of roads and unique walking trails traverse the forest, and wildlife is abundant.
The vegetation offers comforting shade from the blazing Florida sun, and the trails are very soft on the feet as one walks through the world’s largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. It is home to 25% of the world’s threatened scrub-jay (bird) population, the Forest Service says.
A wildfire burned more than 4,000 acres last spring after a late April lightning strike, according to WCJB, an ABC affiliate in Gainesville. No fires are currently burning in the forest, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reports.
Ocala National Forest, which spreads over three counties, was proclaimed a national forest in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Native Americans lived alongside the forest’s Ocklawaha River more than 1,200 years ago, and an ancient burial ground can be seen at Davenport Landing. The landing is also an 1800s and early 1900s steamboat stop.
The National Park Service may best set the scene for prospective visitors.
“From migratory birds and playful manatees to delicate freshwater springs and some of the world’s rarest plants, the Ocala is a haven where people and animals escape to one of Florida’s remaining wild places,” the government agency says. “Here, opportunities abound for all to bask in the wonders of Mother Nature 365 days a year.
“Immerse yourself in nature inside the Ocala National Forest,” the agency adds. “Visit in the early morning, as mists rise off the ponds and lakes, to hear a symphony of birds stirring to sunrise. Explore the longleaf pine islands and scrub ridges for unusual plants. Sit silently in your car along a back road to watch mama bear and cubs lumber across the sand. The Ocala is a landscape of living wonders.”
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