Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park is Florida's oldest tourist attraction, operating glass bottom boat tours since 1878. Located 1 mile east of downtown Ocala in Marion County, the park protects the headsprings of the Silver River and welcomes visitors with kayaking, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing daily from 8am to sunset.
Silver Springs State Park's main entrance is at 5656 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Silver Springs, FL 34488 — about 1 mile east of downtown Ocala on SR 40. The park is open daily 8 AM to sundown. Main-entrance admission is $2 per person (children 5 and under free). The main entrance has the head springs, the historic Glass Bottom Boat tours (a fleet of 9 boats including the wheelchair-accessible Chief Potackee, running every 15-20 minutes 365 days/year), watercraft rentals, food and retail, and the historic gardens. The park's separate Silver River / camping entrance at 1425 NE 58th Avenue ($8/vehicle, 2-8 occupants, or $5 single occupant) has the campground, cabins, Pioneer Cracker Village, Silver River Museum, and 15 miles of hiking and biking trails. The two entrances are connected by an internal trail-and-bridge system — one paid admission covers both same-day. The spring discharges approximately 550 million gallons of 72°F water per day.
Discover Silver Springs
Glass Bottom Boats
Experience the original glass bottom boat tours dating back to 1878. View the underwater springs, native fish, and aquatic vegetation from the comfort of these iconic vessels.
Learn more →Kayaking & Canoeing
Paddle the pristine 5.5-mile spring-run of the Silver River. Rentals available for all skill levels. Perfect for spotting monkeys, manatees, turtles, and native birds in their natural habitat.
Learn more →Hiking & Nature
Explore scenic hiking trails through lush woodland environments. The 15 miles of forest trails — Sandhill (1.7 mi), Sinkhole (2.2 mi), Old Field (0.8 mi), plus connecting routes — are accessed from the Silver River entrance and pass through longleaf pine uplands, sinkhole karst terrain, and old fields. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound with native species including alligators, deer, and over 200 bird species.
Learn more →Historic Glass Bottom Boat Tours
Silver Springs is home to the world's original glass bottom boats, a tradition spanning nearly 150 years. Since 1878, visitors have peered through glass-bottomed vessels to witness the underwater wonders of Florida's premier springs.
These iconic tours offer an unparalleled glimpse into the crystal-clear waters of Silver Springs. The transparent bottoms of the boats provide a unique vantage point to observe native fish species, aquatic vegetation, limestone formations, and the powerful upwelling of spring water from the underground aquifer.
Tours operate year-round and vary in length from 30 minutes to extended wildlife cruises. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about the ecosystem, geology, and history of Silver Springs. Whether visiting as a family, couple, or solo adventurer, glass bottom boat tours remain one of Florida's most beloved tourist experiences.
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning for the clearest water visibility and the best chance to spot wildlife. The calm morning waters create optimal viewing conditions through the glass bottom.
Tour Highlights
- •Crystal-clear spring water visibility
- •Glimpse native fish species and aquatic life
- •Observe limestone formations and spring vents
- •Experienced guides share ecological insights
- •Multiple tour lengths and times available
- •Accessible for all ages and abilities
Kayaking & Canoeing
- 5.5-mile scenic spring-run paddle
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Kayak and canoe rentals on-site
- Guided tour options available
- Calm, crystal-clear waters
- Peak wildlife viewing opportunities
Paddle the Silver River
The Silver River offers some of Florida's premier kayaking and canoeing opportunities. The calm, spring-fed waters create an ideal paddling environment for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The 5.5-mile spring-run paddle winds through pristine natural landscapes lined with cypress trees, native vegetation, and wildlife habitats. Paddlers enjoy exceptional opportunities to encounter the famous rhesus monkeys, manatees, native turtles, and over 200 bird species throughout the year.
Equipment rentals accommodate all paddling preferences, from solo kayaks to tandem canoes. Guided tours led by knowledgeable naturalists provide deeper insights into the ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and natural history. The slow pace of paddling allows for peaceful reflection while navigating some of North Florida's most beautiful waterways.
Whether seeking an active adventure or a meditative nature experience, kayaking the Silver River represents an unforgettable journey through Florida's natural splendor.
Explore more Ocala kayaking →Hiking Trails & Wildlife
Scenic Hiking Trails
Silver Springs State Park features well-maintained hiking trails winding through lush native habitats. Trails range from easy nature walks to more challenging woodland routes, offering options for all fitness levels.
The park's diverse ecosystems include hardwood hammocks, scrubland, and river bottomlands. Trail signage provides educational information about native plants, geological features, and ecological importance. Trails offer peaceful immersion in Florida's natural environment.
Discover more hiking trails →Native Wildlife
Silver Springs is an exceptional wildlife viewing destination featuring numerous native species in their natural habitats.
- Rhesus Monkeys - established wild population
- West Indian Manatees - year-round residents
- Native Turtles - multiple species
- Native Fish Species - abundant populations
- 200+ Bird Species - year-round and seasonal
- American Alligators - observe from safe distances
Early morning visits offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals are most active at dawn.
More to Explore
Camping & Cabins
Camping is at the Silver River / 58th Avenue entrance — 59 RV/tent sites with water and electric hookups (RVs up to 50 ft), vacation cabins that sleep 6 (2BR/1BA, full kitchen, screened porch), and primitive group camping. Reserve at 800-326-3521 or reserve.floridastateparks.org.
Silver River entrance details →Museum & History
Learn about Silver Springs' rich history as one of Florida's first tourist attractions. Museum exhibits showcase vintage glass bottom boats, historical artifacts, and the park's cultural significance.
Discover the history →Swimming
Designated swimming areas allow visitors to experience the refreshing spring-fed waters that maintain a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. A naturally cold and rejuvenating experience.
Details on swimming →Silver Springs Guides
Glass Bottom Boats
Tours from $17, history, and what you will see through the glass.
Silver Springs Kayaking
Clear kayak tours, standard rentals, and the 5-mile Silver River route.
Silver Springs Monkeys
Wild rhesus macaque colony history, safety tips, and where to spot them.
Silver Springs Camping
59 campsites, cabin rentals, amenities, and reservation info.
Tickets & Prices
Admission fees, tour pricing, annual passes, and hours.
Swimming at Silver Springs
72°F year-round spring water, designated swimming areas, and safety info.
Manatees at Silver Springs
Seasonal viewing guide for West Indian manatees in the Silver River.
Discover Other Springs
Marion County is home to numerous other beautiful springs, each with unique characteristics and activities. Silver Springs is just one of many natural wonders in the area.
Explore all springs near OcalaThings to Do in Ocala
Beyond springs, Ocala offers diverse attractions including the World Equestrian Center, cultural venues, dining, shopping, and outdoor adventures throughout the year.
View all Ocala activitiesFrequently Asked Questions
Is Silver Springs State Park free?
No — but the fee depends on which entrance you use. The main entrance at 5656 E Silver Springs Boulevard charges $2 per person (children 5 and under free). The Silver River / camping entrance at 1425 NE 58th Avenue charges $8 per vehicle for 2-8 occupants, or $5 for single-occupant vehicles. One paid admission covers same-day access to both entrances. Activities like Glass Bottom Boat tours, kayak rentals, and personal kayak launches have separate fees.
Can you swim at Silver Springs?
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas at Silver Springs State Park. The spring-fed waters remain a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. Swimming areas are marked and monitored for safety. Life jackets are recommended for less experienced swimmers.
Where can you see monkeys at Silver Springs?
Rhesus monkeys can be spotted throughout the Silver River, particularly during early morning kayaking and boating trips. They were originally introduced in the 1930s and have established a wild population. The monkeys are most active at dawn and dusk, and glass bottom boat tours offer excellent viewing opportunities.
How much are Glass Bottom Boat rides?
Glass Bottom Boat tour prices typically range $12-$25 per adult, depending on tour length and type. Children and seniors receive discounts. Special sunset tours and extended wildlife tours may have different rates. Tours run every 15-20 minutes from approximately 10 AM to 4 PM, 365 days a year, and often sell out — reservations are recommended. The fleet includes 9 boats; one (the Chief Potackee) is wheelchair accessible.
Can you kayak at Silver Springs?
Yes, kayaking is one of the most popular activities at Silver Springs. The calm waters of the Silver River are ideal for paddlers of all skill levels. Kayak and canoe rentals are available on-site. The scenic 5.5-mile spring-run paddle offers excellent opportunities to see wildlife including monkeys, manatees, turtles, and native birds.
What are the hours for Silver Springs State Park?
Silver Springs State Park is generally open daily from 8 AM to sundown. Glass bottom boat tour schedules may vary seasonally. It's recommended to call ahead or check their website for specific seasonal hours, holiday schedules, and tour availability before your visit.
Plan Your Visit
Silver Springs State Park is located just north of Ocala, Florida. Open daily with year-round activities and attractions for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers of all ages.
Explore More Ocala Springs
Marion County is the spring capital of Florida — keep planning with these guides to first-magnitude springs, river adventures, and waterfront experiences nearby.