Tucked away in Ocala National Forest are these little gems called Juniper Springs and Fern Hammock Springs. Here you can step out of your normal and into a fairytale.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area was constructed in the 30s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The mill that provided electricity is still standing and its wheel keeps on turning.
Anyone getting some Sleeping Beauty vibes? It reminds me of her cottage in the forest.
The wooden bridge path will guide you along the Juniper Creek through a canopy of tropical foliage. While walking the wooden path, keep your eyes peeled for animals. I have seen snakes cross my path, and a deer traipsing down the path in front of me.
Leading you to the mythical Fern Hammock Springs that appears to be a scene plucked from a fairytale.
You can't swim in Fern Hammock, just enjoy the views, but you can swim the clear freshwaters of Juniper Springs. Temperatures of Florida springs remain about 70 degrees year-round, which feels much cooler than you would think. On a hot summer day though, its the perfect way to cool down.
The park/recreation area has grills, picnic tables, and restrooms. From the parking lot, you will follow a walkway towards the spring.
While driving from the springs, we saw a little fruit stand advertising freshly made smoothies. So we pulled over to check it out. They were not kidding when they said fresh! Rows upon rows of pineapples and mangos lined up ready to become a delicious treat. I didn't see a menu listed, but I didn't need one. I saw a woman walking away with a giant, gorgeous smoothie and I knew that is what I wanted. I got the one with chili sauce and tajin spice, to add a little kick to my sweet pineapple mango smoothie. They also have an option without the spice. This place is totally worth the stop. It is on the corner of Highway 19 and Highway 42 in Altoona.
So leave your mundane life for a day. Travel through a forest on a quest. A quest to discover something, a treasure perhaps. Something beautiful, something rare, something unique to be a part of your story.
Check the springs off your adventure bucket list using the Florida Springs Passport!
Your fun interactive booklet, where you can see what spring adventures you've completed and which ones to look forward to!
Visit floridaspringspassport.com to get yours!
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