Salt Springs Recreation Area Unimproved Boat Ramp

Located in the Ocala National Forest near Salt Springs Run, this unimproved boat ramp offers access to paddling and boating opportunities in a scenic natural area. The launch is situated at the end of the campground closest to Salt Springs Run, directly across from Salt Springs Marina. Note that the access road is a long dirt track that may seem like a wrong turn—follow it through to reach the ramp and marina facilities. The site is easily accessible from major highways: approximately 12 miles east of Ocala via State Route 40, then north on County Road 314.

This recreation area is popular for multiple water activities including fishing, swimming in the natural mineral spring, and snorkeling, so expect moderate to heavy use during weekends. The boat ramp may close when capacity is reached, so plan accordingly and consider visiting on weekdays. Paddlers can explore Salt Springs Run, with good fishing access available downstream of the swimming area. The facility also offers nearby amenities including a marina with boat rentals, campground facilities (reservable through Recreation.gov), and hiking trails including the Bear Swamp Trail.

For reservations or additional information, contact Salt Springs Recreation Area at 352-685-2048. Camping is available on-site and at nearby facilities like Lake Delancy West and Hopkins Prairie Campgrounds.

Overview
Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the Ocala National Forest, with a spectacular natural mineral spring that gives the area its name. Plenty of outdoor activities keep campers and day-use visitors busy, including swimming in the springs, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and boating. Salt Springs is located between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers, 35 miles east...

Overview
Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the Ocala National Forest, with a spectacular natural mineral spring that gives the area its name. Plenty of outdoor activities keep campers and day-use visitors busy, including swimming in the springs, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and boating. Salt Springs is located between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers, 35 miles east of Ocala, Florida.

The national forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River, and protects the world's largest, contiguous sand pine scrub forest.Recreation
The natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby.

For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.Facilities
Salt Springs is the largest campground in the Ocala National Forest and the only one with full hookups for RVs. The facility offers spacious campsites for RVs and trailers, as well as a designated tent-only area, which is a short walk from the parking area. Sites are nicely shaded and well away from the busy day-use area.

The recreation area and campground are located in the community of Salt Springs, which has a gas station, grocery store, several restaurants, bait and tackle shops, a post office, laundromat and visitor center.Natural Features
The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures. Within the recreation area, a natural spring rises from cracks deep within the earth. The presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts give the waters a slight salinity - hence the name Salt Springs.
Nearby Attractions
Salt Springs is very close to Lake George, a great fishing destination.

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