Ocala, Florida, is renowned for its natural wonders, with scenic landscapes that invite residents and visitors to explore the great outdoors. The city and surrounding region are home to a wide variety of parks and green spaces, each offering fantastic opportunities to relax, engage in recreational adventures, and connect with nature. From expansive state parks that showcase Florida's stunning biodiversity to smaller community spaces perfect for quiet afternoon picnics, Ocala's parks are a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces for all to enjoy.
Read on to explore a number of the top parks in and around the Ocala region and discover what makes each one special, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat.
Sholom Park
For those seeking a quiet escape in nature, Sholom Park offers a beautifully curated garden setting that encourages relaxation and reflection. This privately funded, nonprofit park is open to the public and is designed to promote tranquility. Its stunning 44 acres are meticulously landscaped, with pathways leading through different themed areas, including formal gardens, natural woodlands, and open meadows.
Visitors can stroll through the labyrinth, which offers a meditative walk with 24 points of reflection, or relax by the koi pond, a popular spot to sit and unwind. Sholom Park is also a favorite for those who enjoy birdwatching, with various species commonly spotted throughout. The park is a great spot for solo visits or a peaceful outing with friends, where the focus is on relaxation rather than structured recreation.
Visitors can stroll through the labyrinth, which offers a meditative walk with 24 points of reflection, or relax by the koi pond, a popular spot to sit and unwind. Sholom Park is also a favorite for those who enjoy birdwatching, with various species commonly spotted throughout. The park is a great spot for solo visits or a peaceful outing with friends, where the focus is on relaxation rather than structured recreation.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is a massive wilderness area offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Spanning over 387,000 acres, it is one of the largest national forests in the state and offers a variety of terrains, from sand pine scrub to dense hardwood swamps. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, or simply being immersed in the splendor of nature.
The forest is home to more than 600 lakes, rivers, and springs, many of which are perfect for swimming, canoeing, boating, fishing, and scuba diving. Popular spots include Juniper Creek, Alexander Springs Creek, Halfmoon Lake, and Salt Springs Run, each offering crystal-clear water that’s ideal for cooling off in the Florida heat. For those who prefer land-based pursuits, the forest boasts a network of hiking and backpacking trails, including sections of the statewide Florida Trail, which passes through some of the most scenic areas in the forest.
Ocala National Forest is also a prime destination for equestrian adventures, scenic drives, and camping, with both developed campgrounds and more primitive sites available. It’s a wonderful spot to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the quiet beauty of Florida’s wilderness.
The forest is home to more than 600 lakes, rivers, and springs, many of which are perfect for swimming, canoeing, boating, fishing, and scuba diving. Popular spots include Juniper Creek, Alexander Springs Creek, Halfmoon Lake, and Salt Springs Run, each offering crystal-clear water that’s ideal for cooling off in the Florida heat. For those who prefer land-based pursuits, the forest boasts a network of hiking and backpacking trails, including sections of the statewide Florida Trail, which passes through some of the most scenic areas in the forest.
Ocala National Forest is also a prime destination for equestrian adventures, scenic drives, and camping, with both developed campgrounds and more primitive sites available. It’s a wonderful spot to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the quiet beauty of Florida’s wilderness.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs State Park, just five miles from Ocala in Silver Springs, is one of the crown jewels of the region’s park system, famous for its crystal-clear springs and rich history. Visitors to the park can enjoy the world-renowned glass-bottom boat tours, which offer a unique view of the underwater world without even getting splashed. The clarity of the springs allows you to see fish, turtles, and underwater vegetation in stunning detail.
In addition to boat tours, Silver Springs State Park offers a wide range of recreational pursuits. Canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking are popular choices, with the gentle currents of the Silver River providing a serene paddling experience.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park features several miles of hiking trails that meander through sandhill terrain, oak hammocks, and swamplands, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and getting exercise. The park is also home to picnic areas and the historic Silver River Museum and Education Center, which showcases the history of the area. The park is an excellent destination for a full day of fun and exploration.
In addition to boat tours, Silver Springs State Park offers a wide range of recreational pursuits. Canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking are popular choices, with the gentle currents of the Silver River providing a serene paddling experience.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park features several miles of hiking trails that meander through sandhill terrain, oak hammocks, and swamplands, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and getting exercise. The park is also home to picnic areas and the historic Silver River Museum and Education Center, which showcases the history of the area. The park is an excellent destination for a full day of fun and exploration.
Tuscawilla Park
Located near historic downtown Ocala, Tuscawilla Park is a community favorite for recreation and relaxation. The park features the shimmering Lake Tuscawilla at its center, surrounded by walking paths and tranquil picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. The park features an Art Park, a playground, picnic areas, and open green spaces that are perfect for impromptu games of soccer or frisbee. Tuscawilla Park also hosts various community events throughout the year, from art festivals to live performances, giving residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the park’s vibrant atmosphere.
Jervey Gantt Park
For those who enjoy staying active, Jervey Gantt Park offers a range of sports and fitness amenities in a spacious, well-maintained setting. The 63-acre complex features courts for basketball, tennis, racquetball, and sand volleyball, along with several sports fields, including baseball and softball diamonds, soccer fields, and a track for running and walking. It’s a popular spot for both organized sports leagues and casual games, as the well-kept facilities make it a reliable choice for athletes of all levels.
In addition to its sports amenities, Jervey Gantt Park offers a fitness trail equipped with workout stations, allowing visitors to incorporate strength training into their outdoor exercise routines. There’s also a pool and a large playground. The park’s picnic pavilions and barbecue areas make it an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a day under the sunny skies.
In addition to its sports amenities, Jervey Gantt Park offers a fitness trail equipped with workout stations, allowing visitors to incorporate strength training into their outdoor exercise routines. There’s also a pool and a large playground. The park’s picnic pavilions and barbecue areas make it an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a day under the sunny skies.
Ocala’s Parks Await Your Adventure
Ocala, Florida, is truly a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with parks that cater to a wide range of interests, from tranquil gardens to expansive wilderness areas. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an adventurous outdoor excursion, Ocala’s parks have something to offer. Get started today and explore Ocala real estate with Deborah Sumey of Next Generation Realty.
