Silver River State Park
About Silver River State Park
A NOTE FROM THE MANAGER
Sally Lieb
Spring is a joyous time in North Central Florida! New bright leaves burst forth with the colors of wildflowers and emerging butterflies and returning songbirds. Warming temperatures, blue skies and cool breezes make this an ideal time for outdoor adventures. Come join us!
The park contains extensive trails where you can hike, ride a bike, paddle up the river or saddle up a horse. The Silver River is a glorious wild place filled with spectacular beauty and wildlife. On the trails, be prepared with your sunscreen, drinking water and insect repellent. Pay attention to smoke and signs, the staff conducts prescribed burning to improve and enhance the park's natural habitats to their previous glory. The horse trails and bike trails are in wetland areas, so ask about the trail conditions at the Ranger Station before you set out. Add an element of learning and pick up some reasonably priced identification cards from the Ranger Station on your way in to know more about local plants and animals. Leave your computers, televisions, cell phones, and other gadgets behind, grab your binoculars and give yourself a break from technology. It's time to get outside!
Our rental canoes are very popular, so get here early on the day you wish to rent. There is nothing that compares with getting out on this pristine river! If you have your own vessel be ready for a half mile walk to carry your kayak/canoe down to the boat launch. Our concessionaire PaddleDog Kayaks and Tours can rent you a kayak to put in at the park and take out down river; no upstream paddling needed! Reservations at least a day in advance are required. Swimming and fishing are prohibited for the protection of the Silver River, a National Natural Landmark, Ask a Ranger about nearby parks where these activities are available. This river is for relaxing and observing nature.
Enjoy having a fire at your campsite or near your cabin in the fire rings provided. The campground is located in a fire adapted natural plant community. Local conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared for possible burn bans. Although we certainly want you to have a full camping experience, we must prevent wildfires. Grills are also provided, and charcoal fires are only banned during extreme fire danger times. You may notice some evidence of forest fires here, the park actively pursues prescribed burning under favorable conditions as a way to preserve and restore Florida's natural areas.
The Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
COMING THIS FALL: SILVER SPRINGS BECOMES PART OF THE STATE PARK! The Silver River originates as Silver Springs. This mighty spring has been privately operated as an attraction for over 100 years. The State Park system will embrace the spring as part of the state park effective October 1, 2013.
DESIGNATIONS
GETTING HERE
Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35. From Interstate 75, take exit 352 onto SR 40 east, about 9 miles to SR 35. From Interstate 95 take exit 268 to Route 40 west, about 60 miles to SR 35.
GET INVOLVED
- Volunteer -
Silver River State Park is growing and with it grows the need for volunteer support. The success of the park depends on dedicated, hard working volunteers. The park is currently looking for campground hosts and campground volunteers for the summer season of April through October. If you live locally we always need volunteers to work in the museum on weekends.
- For forms, information and benefits of volunteering visit Get Involved.
- Friends of Silver River State Park
- 1425 NE 58th Ave, Ocala FL 34470
CONCESSIONAIRES
-
Cactus Jack's Trail Rides -
Guided trail rides on rented horses are offered seven days a week on the equine trails at Silver River. For further information and for reservations call 352-266-9326, or email deb@cactusjackstrailrides.com
Contact Debra Zito, Manager, (352) 266-9326
PET POLICY
- Florida State Parks Pet Policy
- Pets are permitted at the Silver River Campground and on all hiking trails. Pets are not permitted in cabins, the museum or restrooms. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park, as required by law.
