Recreation Areas
Directions:
From I-75, I-4 and I-95, to the intersection of State Road 40 and 19. Go south on State Road 19. Follow SR 19 to County Road 445.
Alexander Springs
Alexander Springs is a major recreation, scenic and historical area. The focal point is a freshwater spring that gushes out approximately 70 million gallons of 72 degrees farenheit crystal clear water daily. It is one of Florida's 27 first-magnitude freshwater springs. The surrounding subtropical vegetation of palms, hardwood swamp and sand pine create a diverse ecosystem unique to this area.
Hiking and Biking
The Timucuan Trail is an interpretive nature trail starting at the picnic area. The 1.1 mile loop trail highlights vegetation used by early Native Americans and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching along Alexander Creek. This trail is wheelchair accessible up to the second platform.
For the more serious hiker, a blue-blazed spur trail connects the area with the nearby orange-blazed Florida National Scenic Trail, which runs 70 miles through Ocala National Forest (a blaze is a vertical rectangular paint patch about eye level on trees or posts.)
The Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail is located near the hiking trail and can be accessed by bike from the recreation area via the blue-blazed spur trail. This non-motorized bike trail, marked with yellow diamonds, is a 22-mile loop trail through a longleaf pine forest.
A convenient parking area provides access for those who are interested in biking at Paisley Woods as well as for those who wish to hike this challenging trail. A fee is charged for overnight parking.
Visitor Information
Alexander Springs Recreation Area is open year round and is operated by Recreation Resource Management. The gates open at 8:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. daily.
The 67-unit campground can accomodate tents and recreation vehicles up to 35 feet. Some campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Others are available by reservation by calling 1-877-444-6777 or at www.recreation.gov. The maximum stay is 14 consecutive days in a 30 day period from April 16 to October 14; 180 day stays are permitted from October 15 to April 15.
Detailed camping regulations are posted and available at the entrance gate house.
Recreation Site Amenities
There are no electrical, water or sewer hookups, but hot showers and a dump station are provided. A concessionaire sells snacks, groceries, ice, charcoal, firewood, beach items and personal items.
The natural spring pool offers year round swimming with change house facilities available. Snorkeling is an excellent way to enjoy the abundant fish and swaying underwater vegetaion. Scuba diving is permitted in the large spring boil, but valid proof of certification is required and must be presented on demand. Canoeing is extremely popular all year and offers and alternate opportunity to view Alexander Creek and the adjoining sub-tropical environment. Some snorkeling equipment, rental canoe and back haul services are offered daily.