Juniper Springs puts Ocala National Forest on the map
Juniper Springs gives the Ocala National Forest a spring, campground, CCC history, and a careful paddling check.
Juniper Springs helps people picture the Ocala National Forest as more than a green shape on the map.
The recreation area is in Marion County on State Road 40, about 36 miles east of Ocala. Its story includes work by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a spring, a campground, and Juniper Run. That narrow canoe route winds through the forest, while the campground has sites for tents and RVs.
Each part of the site can have its own fees, limits, rules, or short-term closures. The seven-mile Juniper Run is a wilderness paddle rather than a beginner float, so it needs more planning than simply showing up with a boat.
Check the Forest Service page before the trip. Confirm the fees, hours, camping, rentals or shuttle details, paddling rules, water conditions, closures, and fire or weather alerts. Juniper Springs is easier to enjoy when those details are settled first.
Where to see it
Juniper Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest. Check the U.S. Forest Service for fees, camping, day-use status, paddling rules, closures, and alerts before visiting.
Explore the area
Places in this note
Nearby and related places
Sources
- U.S. Forest Service - Juniper Springs Recreation Area
- Recreation.gov - Juniper Springs Recreation Area
Last checked against these sources: July 27, 2026.
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