Alexander Springs Recreation Area and Campground

Set in Florida's Ocala National Forest, on the Florida National Scenic Trail, Alexander Springs Recreation Area is a popular place for swimming, boating, fishing, and even scuba diving—in fact, it’s the only place in the national forest where scuba diving is allowed. Many visitors come just for the day, but if you want to spend the night, there’s a 67-site campground onsite. Tents and RVs up to 35 feet long are allowed, but none of the sites have hookups. Campground amenities include a dump station, hot showers, and a shop with essential supplies and firewood.

Tips for snagging a campsite reservation

• Some campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others need to be reserved in advance. It’s best to book in advance when possible.
• Advance-reservation campsites can be booked up to six months in advance on the National Park Service (NPS) website.
• If you’re hoping to get a first-come, first-served site, you’ll have better luck if you arrive earlier in the day or on a weekday.
• If you can’t secure a spot at Alexander Springs, you may have better luck at Clearwater Lake Recreation Area or Juniper Springs Recreation Area, each of which is around 20 minutes away by car.

When to go

The best time to visit Alexander Springs is in the spring or in the autumn, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the crowds are reasonable. However, if you plan to scuba dive in the spring, you may want to pack a wetsuit. Summer is the busiest season, and the campground fills up early this time of year. It's also the hottest and rainiest, particularly in August

Know before you go

• You can rent canoes and kayaks and buy groceries, firewood, and ice from the park’s concessionaire.
• The closest place to get gas is in the nearby town of Altoona.
• Pets are allowed at the campground, but are prohibited from the day-use area (even in cars).
• Accessible features include showers, bathrooms, and a picnic area. The boardwalk section of the park's nature trail is also suitable for wheelchairs.
• Fishing is allowed at Alexander Springs, but all anglers must obtain a Florida Freshwater Fishing License in advance.
• Swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing are allowed at Alexander Springs, but motorized boats are prohibited.