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Ocala National Forest

© Vickie Ferguson

Located in the northern part of the state in the "rolling" hills of Florida lies the city of Ocala also known as Tree City, USA.

If you've never visited the northern region of the state you're definitely in for a big surprise. While Key West, located at the southern tip of the state has a very tropical atmosphere of balmy breezes, sandy beaches, and deep sea fishing boats, the northern part of the state boasts cooler weather, rolling green hills and thoroughbred horse farms.

There's also this huge area called the Ocala National Forest that consists of 383,573 acres! Camping is very popular in the Ocala National Forest and both full-service campgrounds and rustic camping sites are available. There are numerous hiking/walking trails as well as horseback riding trails. Located within the forest is Alexander Springs with cool crystal clear water perfect for snorkeling and Silver Glen Springs has a spring basin filled to the brim with Striped Bass that like to get up close and personal. Also found within the forest is the Juniper Prairie Wilderness nature reserve that encompasses 14,000 acres within the forest and has many interesting ecological areas for you to observe. Be sure to bring your camera as you never know what interesting specimen you might discover.

Salt Springs Run Marina and Landing is also located within the forest and offers a variety of activities such as fishing, snorkeling, or swimming in Salt Springs. Whether you bring your own boat or want to rent a canoe, power skiff or pontoon boat, you'll be able to meander down the Lake George or St. John's rivers. Tackle, bait, bug repellent and fishing licenses are available at the marina.

There's plenty of fish to be caught, such as striped bass, catfish and largemouth bass, and if bird watching is a pastime, keep your eyes peeled for great blue herons, osprey, egrets and bald eagles. Don't be surprised if you see alligators lazing away the afternoon, so be sure and keep your hands in the boat!

Whether you're a certified ecologist, environmentalist, teacher or just someone who appreciates and respects the great outdoors and the residents inhabiting this natural environment, the forest offers a close up look at the habitat, flora and fauna that are native to the region.

Another area you might like to visit is Rainbow Springs State Park that offers 600 acres of natural parkland to explore, including two waterfalls, and another 400 acres of campgrounds. Be sure to take advantage of the swimming and snorkeling available in the cool, clear waters of the spring. It's very invigorating! Check out this link to Rainbow Springs for information on snorkeling: http://underwaterflorida.homestead.com/r...