Fern Hammock Springs
Known as “The Aquarium” — considered by many to be the prettiest spring in all of Florida. A turquoise jewel hidden inside the Juniper Springs Recreation Area.
About Fern Hammock Springs
Tucked inside the Juniper Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest, Fern Hammock Springs has earned the nickname “The Aquarium” for good reason. The spring pool features some of the clearest, most turquoise water you'll find anywhere in Florida.
Water rises from the aquifer through the sandy bottom in visible sand boils that stir the sand like small underwater sandstorms. The Forest Service says Juniper and Fern Hammock springs together put out about 13 million gallons a day into Juniper Creek, at a constant 72 degrees. Access note: as of October 2026 the Forest Service says the Juniper Springs boardwalk area is closed to the public for renovations, so ask at the gatehouse at (352) 625-3147 whether Fern Hammock can be reached before you plan a trip around it.
Lush subtropical vegetation, towering ferns, and a dense hammock canopy surround the spring pool, giving it the otherworldly atmosphere implied by the name. Unlike many Florida springs, Fern Hammock is a look-only destination. The Forest Service does not allow wading in the springs or runs here, and swimming is limited to the designated Juniper Springs swimming area.
Getting There
Starting Point: Juniper Springs Recreation Area
From Ocala, take SR 40 East for approximately 30 miles into the Ocala National Forest. The Juniper Springs Recreation Area entrance is on your left, on the north side of SR 40, according to Recreation.gov. Pay the day-use fee at the entrance station.
The Juniper Creek Nature Trail to Fern Hammock
Fern Hammock is reached on foot from inside the recreation area; the Forest Service lists accessible walkways and a nature trail at Juniper Springs. As of October 2026 the Forest Service says the boardwalk area is closed to the public for renovations, and Recreation.gov says the boardwalk remains closed because of age and hurricane damage. Ask at the gatehouse at (352) 625-3147 whether Fern Hammock can be reached, and check the Forest Service Juniper Springs page for current alerts.
Parking
Parking is at the Juniper Springs Recreation Area; there is no separate parking area for Fern Hammock Springs. Day use is first come, first served, and the Forest Service says to expect full recreation sites on weekends and closures when a site reaches capacity, so a weekday or early arrival is the safer plan.
What to Expect
Sand Boils
The sandy bottom is dotted with sand boils, where water from the aquifer pushes up through the sand and swirls it like miniature underwater sandstorms.
Turquoise Water
The water at Fern Hammock is a stunning shade of turquoise with incredible clarity. On sunny days, light penetrates to the bottom and illuminates the entire pool, creating the aquarium-like effect that gives the spring its nickname.
Lush Surroundings
The spring is surrounded by a dense hammock of ferns, palms, and subtropical vegetation. The canopy filters sunlight beautifully and creates a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere around the pool.
Wildlife
Recreation.gov lists alligators, turtles, deer, black bears, raccoons and many birds around Juniper Springs, along with albino gray squirrels, river otters and American eels. Keep your distance from all wildlife.
Important Rules & Safety
No Swimming Allowed
The Forest Service does not allow wading in the springs or runs at Juniper Springs Recreation Area, and swimming is limited to the designated swimming area, so do not enter the water at Fern Hammock Springs.
Why Is It Protected?
- Fragile spring ecosystem easily damaged by human contact
- Sunscreen, oils, and chemicals contaminate spring water
- Preserving the spring for future generations
Safety Warnings
- Alligators live in the area, according to Recreation.gov, and in Juniper Run, according to the Forest Service
- Venomous snakes inhabit the surrounding forest
- Stay on marked trails and stay out of the closed boardwalk area
- Bring insect repellent — mosquitoes are common
Nearby Activities
Juniper Springs Swimming
In the same recreation area, Juniper Springs has a designated swimming area with 72°F water, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Part of Juniper Springs Recreation AreaJuniper Creek Paddling
The 7-mile Juniper Run starts at Juniper Springs. Naventure rents single kayaks for $65 and tandem kayaks or canoes for $75, shuttle included, and says the run takes 3 to 5 hours and is not for beginners.
Kayaks & Canoes AvailableCamping
Juniper Springs has a 79-site tent and RV campground with no hookups, plus hot showers and flush toilets, according to Recreation.gov and the Forest Service.
Reserve at Recreation.govOther Springs Near Ocala
Marion County and the Ocala National Forest are home to some of the most stunning springs in Florida. After visiting Fern Hammock, explore more of the region's natural spring systems. Fern Hammock shares a Silver Springs mailing address but is not part of Silver Springs State Park, the Florida state park with the glass-bottom boats just east of Ocala.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Fern Hammock Springs?+
How do you get to Fern Hammock Springs?+
Why is Fern Hammock Springs called 'The Aquarium'?+
Is Fern Hammock Springs free to visit?+
How far is Fern Hammock Springs from Ocala?+
What should I bring to Fern Hammock Springs?+
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