Silver Springs State Park: Glass-Bottom Boats, Kayaking & Trails
Silver Springs State Park in Ocala is a family-friendly, fun spot to experience wild Florida. This 4,000-acre park features one of the largest and clearest springs in the country. It is known for glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, hiking trails, and a rich history. Visitors can explore the park’s waterways, trails, and museum while enjoying peaceful surroundings.
Things to Do at Silver Springs State Park
See Silver Springs from a Glass-Bottom Boat
Glass-bottom boat tours are one of the best parts of visiting Silver Springs, and have been since well before this was a state park! These unique boats allow visitors to see underwater views through clear panels. You might spot fish, turtles, or even old artifacts on the riverbed. This activity is family-friendly and accessible to people using wheelchairs.
Accessible adventures in wild Florida: Glass Bottom Boat Tours for All at Silver Springs State Park
Tours run several times a day, weather permitting, so it’s easy to add this to your visit. Pro tip: Do book your tour ahead of time! The tours can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays.
Kayak on the Silver River
The Silver River is another way to enjoy the park. Paddle a kayak or canoe through calm waters surrounded by forest. There are over 30 freshwater springs that feed the river, resulting in water that’s clear and calm.
As of June 2025, parts of the paddle trail are closed due to boardwalk construction. Keep an eye on any active closures here.
Boat rentals are available, or you can bring your own. The paddling trail winds along shaded paths, and you might see alligators, manatees, or birds.
Walk and Explore Nature
Silver Springs State Park has many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. These paths are good for spotting wildlife like deer, tortoises, and squirrels. One trail features a boardwalk along the river, giving close-up views of the water and the trees. Trail lengths vary, so you can pick paths that suit your time and energy.
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Learn About the Park’s History
Silver Springs State Park has a unique past. It was once a private amusement park, but now it is a state park focused on conservation. The Silver River Museum shares more about the area’s natural and cultural history. Open on weekends, the museum is a good place to learn about Florida’s environment and early settlers.
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Walking through the park, you’ll also see gardens and old structures from its private park days…you might even catch a glimpse of the wild monkeys that still call these woods home!
Stay Overnight or Visit for the Day
Silver Springs State Park has a campground located away from the main park. Sites are available for tents or RVs. For day visitors, the park has picnic spots with tables and grills. These areas are a nice place to take a break or enjoy a meal outdoors.
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Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open every day from 8 a.m. to sundown
- Admission: $8 per vehicle, additional fees for camping and museum entry
- Facilities: Glass-bottom boat tours, trails, picnic areas, kayak rentals, and a museum
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths and facilities
Weather can affect some activities like boat tours and kayaking, so check the forecast before you go.
Experience Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park lets you enjoy Florida’s natural beauty and explore its history. Whether you’re getting a look under the water in a glass-bottomed boat, paddling a kayak, or walking a quiet trail, the park has something for everyone. It’s a great spot to find peace, learn, and connect with nature.
Plan your trip to Silver Springs State Park and see why it’s one of wild Florida’s special places.
