Ray Wayside Park

What Is Ray Wayside Park and Why Should You Visit?

Ray Wayside Park, commonly referred to as the Ocala Boat Basin, is a well-established public recreation area in eastern Marion County, Florida. Situated along State Road 40 (East Silver Springs Boulevard) near the Ocklawaha River, the park occupies state-owned land that has been leased to Marion County since 1976. For nearly five decades, it has served as a vital access point for boaters, anglers, and families seeking affordable outdoor recreation east of Ocala.

The park's boat ramps are among the most popular in the region, providing direct access to the Ocklawaha River and its connecting waterways. The concrete ramps can accommodate a variety of vessels, from small jon boats and kayaks to larger bass boats. Trailer parking near the launch area makes it convenient for boaters to load and unload. The Ocklawaha River itself is a significant Central Florida waterway that flows north from the chain of lakes near Leesburg to the St. Johns River, offering miles of navigable water for fishing, wildlife observation, and general boating.

Bank fishing is another major draw at Ray Wayside Park. The shoreline along the river provides accessible spots for anglers who prefer to fish from land rather than by boat. The Ocklawaha River supports a healthy population of freshwater game fish including largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie (known locally as speckled perch). The park is a popular destination during crappie season, when anglers gather along the banks in the cooler months. A valid Florida freshwater fishing license is required for anyone age 16 and older.

Beyond water-based recreation, Ray Wayside Park offers a range of land-based amenities that make it appealing for families and groups. A sand volleyball court provides a place for pickup games and friendly competition. The playground area features equipment suitable for younger children, making the park a practical destination for families with kids. A covered picnic pavilion offers shaded seating for group meals, birthday parties, and casual gatherings, and restroom facilities are available on-site.

The park's location on SR 40 makes it easily accessible from both Ocala to the west and Silver Springs to the northwest. Eastern Marion County is characterized by its natural beauty, with the Ocala National Forest lying just to the north and the Ocklawaha River corridor providing habitat for a wide range of wildlife including wading birds, osprey, turtles, and occasionally manatees in the warmer months. Visitors to Ray Wayside Park often spot wildlife along the riverbanks and in the surrounding tree canopy.

Managed by Marion County Parks and Recreation, Ray Wayside Park is open from sunrise to sunset and does not charge an entry fee for day use. Its combination of river access, fishing opportunities, and family-friendly facilities makes it one of the more versatile public parks in eastern Marion County. Whether you are launching a boat for a day on the Ocklawaha, casting a line from the bank, or simply enjoying a picnic with the family, Ray Wayside Park delivers a genuine Florida outdoor experience.