What are the best parks and springs to visit in Ocala?

Ocala is famous for Silver Springs State Park with its glass-bottom boat tours, Rainbow Springs State Park for swimming and tubing, and the Ocala National Forest for hiking and camping. Local parks include Tuscawilla Park and Citizens Circle downtown.

Can I swim in the natural springs around Ocala?

Yes! Many natural springs around Ocala offer swimming opportunities, including Rainbow Springs, Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest, and Salt Springs. These crystal-clear springs maintain a refreshing 72°F year-round.

Are there camping facilities at Ocala area parks?

Several parks offer camping including Rainbow Springs State Park, Silver Springs State Park, and numerous campgrounds throughout the Ocala National Forest. Many offer both tent camping and RV sites with amenities.

What outdoor activities are available in Marion County parks?

Marion County parks offer hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, camping, horseback riding trails, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The Ocala National Forest alone has over 600 miles of trails and multiple recreation areas.

Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway

The Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is a 110-mile linear park stretching across Florida, with significant trail access points in and around Marion County. This expansive greenway offers some of the best hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature exploration in the Ocala area. The greenway follows the corridor of the never-completed Cross Florida Barge Canal and features paved and unpaved multi-use trails, equestrian trails, wildlife viewing areas, and access to the Oklawaha River. Popular trailheads in the Ocala area include the Santos Trailhead (world-class mountain biking), the Land Bridge over I-75, the Baseline Trailhead, and the Ross Prairie Trailhead. The greenway connects to the Florida Greenway network and provides opportunities for day hikes, long-distance cycling, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and photography. The Land Bridge is an iconic feature — a wildlife crossing over I-75 that also serves as a pedestrian and equestrian bridge. Managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Cross Florida Greenway is free to access and open year-round from sunrise to sunset. It is one of Marion County's most significant natural assets and a major draw for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Nature Parks

Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is a nature parks located at 8282 SE Hwy 314 in Ocala, Florida. Open Sunrise to Sunset. This Marion County park features 12+ amenities including Hiking trails, Biking trails, Equestrian trails.

Updated 2 weeks ago

What Amenities and Features Are Available at This Park?

Hiking trails

Biking trails

Equestrian trails

Mountain biking (Santos)

Land Bridge over I-75

Wildlife viewing

Kayak launches

Fishing access

Picnic areas

Restrooms

Free parking

Multiple trailheads

Hours of Operation

daily:Sunrise to Sunset

Location

8282 SE Hwy 314

Ocala, FL 34480

Get Directions

Contact Information

(352) 236-7143

Call Park Services

Important Information

For park emergencies or issues, call the Park Ranger line at (352) 789-1133

Pavilion reservations can be made through the Recreation & Parks office.

Related Activities

Discover more outdoor recreation opportunities in Ocala

Running & Trail Guide

Explore Ocala's premier running destinations with over 300 miles of diverse terrain for all fitness levels.

View Running Guide

All Parks & Recreation

Discover more parks, trails, and recreational facilities throughout Marion County.

Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway

What Amenities and Features Are Available at This Park?

Hours of Operation

Running & Trail Guide

All Parks & Recreation

Explore Topics

Horse Country

Downtown Scene

Business Services

Community Events

Local Government

Near Downtown Ocala

Ocala Downtown Market

Ivy on the Square

Big Hammock Brewery & Bites

Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille

Related Content