Where to meet
Silver Springs Kayak Launch
5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Silver Springs, FL 34488
Read the text and email sent before your reservation. They include a detailed map and a photograph of the person you are meeting.
Brad's local guide
Plan Your Visit to Silver Springs
The Silver River may be the reason you visit, but there is plenty nearby to turn your time on the water into a full day or an entire weekend around Silver Springs, Ocala and the Ocala National Forest.
A little local help
Make more of your time in our corner of Florida.
These are places I genuinely enjoy or feel comfortable recommending to guests. They are not paid placements. I want your experience around Silver Springs to be just as memorable as your time on the river.
Hours, fees, reservations and availability can change, so please check each official website before making the drive.
Before your reservation
Start with the practical details.
When to arrive
Please arrive 20 to 30 minutes before your reservation for park entry, unloading, equipment fitting, waivers and safety guidance.
Park and launch fees
Guests pay the park $2 per person for admission and $4 per kayak or paddleboard at the launch. These fees cannot be collected with your reservation.
What to bring
Bring water or another non alcoholic drink, reef safe sunscreen, clothing and shoes that may get wet, identification and your booking confirmation.
Brad's local favorites
Good food, coffee and something sweet.
These are not generic directory listings. They are locally owned places I am glad to send guests.
Duck's Dam Diner
One of my personal favorite breakfast places, about a 20 minute drive from Silver Springs in Ocklawaha. It is a small, old fashioned local diner with hearty breakfasts and a friendly local atmosphere. My favorite breakfast is the Tower, with chicken fried chicken, gravy and biscuits.
Visit official website
Mocha's Silver Springs
A locally owned coffee, bakery and ice cream shop only a few miles from the state park. My favorites include the chicken salad sandwich, burgers, Philly cheesesteaks and cinnamon rolls. The chocolate caramel milkshake is my favorite treat here.
Visit official website
Terry's Place
A longtime local favorite known for generous portion sizes and a filling meal after time on the river. The burgers and chicken tenders are my all time favorites here.
Visit official websiteMore than a day on the river
Spend more time inside Silver Springs State Park.
The river may be the reason many people first visit, but the state park offers several ways to stay longer and explore beyond the water. You can plan a walk, ride, overnight stay or a quieter afternoon beneath the trees.
Camping and cabinsHiking trailsBicycling and mountain bikingHorseback ridingGardens and picnickingSilver River Museum
Trail access, hours, fees and availability can change. Review the park's official information before your visit.
Explore park experiencesLooking for somewhere to swim?
Choose a designated swimming spring nearby.
Swimming is not currently permitted at Silver Springs State Park or along the Silver River. These recreation areas provide designated places to enjoy the water.
Alexander Springs
A broad, clear swimming area with gradual entry and a relaxed setting that works well for families.
Visit official websiteJuniper Springs
A historic recreation area with a spring fed swimming area, palms, live oaks and Civilian Conservation Corps history.
Visit official websiteSalt Springs
Clear mineral spring water, swimming, snorkeling and picnic areas surrounded by the Ocala National Forest.
Visit official websiteSilver Glen Springs
A clear spring basin with designated swimming and snorkeling near Lake George.
Visit official websiteRainbow Springs State Park
A designated swimming area along with gardens, walking paths and waterfalls.
Visit official websiteMore things to do around Ocala
Keep exploring after the river.
World Equestrian Center
Ocala and Marion County are known as the Horse Capital of the World®. The World Equestrian Center brings together equestrian competitions, restaurants, shopping, festivals, events and impressive grounds that are worth seeing even if you are new to the horse world.
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Santos Trailhead and Campground
One of the area's standout outdoor destinations, with an extensive network of single track mountain bike trails for a range of skill levels, plus campground access near the trailhead.
Visit official websiteThe Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park
Zipline experiences above limestone canyons, lakes and treetops, along with horseback riding options.
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Silver River Museum and Pioneer Village
Florida history, archaeology, fossils, wildlife exhibits and the historic Pioneer Village inside Silver Springs State Park.
Visit official websiteFort King National Historic Landmark
A reconstructed frontier fort with Second Seminole War history, walking areas and exhibits.
Visit official websiteAppleton Museum of Art
A good indoor or rainy day option with permanent collections, changing exhibitions and outdoor sculptures.
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Downtown Ocala
Spend time around the downtown square exploring restaurants, local shops, public art and seasonal events.
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Horse Farm Tours
Experience Ocala's horse country through local farm tours and equestrian experiences.
Visit official websiteOcala National Forest Trails
Explore hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives and outdoor recreation throughout the Ocala National Forest.
Visit official websitePlaces to stay
Stay close enough to slow the weekend down.
Woodpecker Treehouse Retreat
An elevated treehouse surrounded by woods near Ocala. Listings may include memorable features such as a hanging bridge, outdoor net, fire pit or hot tub. Confirm all current amenities directly with the host before booking.
Visit official websiteWorld Equestrian Center Lodging
The Equestrian Hotel and other lodging options provide an easy base for enjoying the World Equestrian Center and Ocala.
Visit official websiteSilver Springs State Park Camping and Cabins
Stay beneath the trees with tent and RV camping or reserve one of the park's cabins close to Silver Springs.
Visit official websiteOcala National Forest Camping and Cabins
Find campgrounds and cabin options throughout the Ocala National Forest for a quieter stay close to outdoor recreation.
Visit official websiteMore local planning help
Official Ocala and Marion County Visitor Guide
Find additional lodging, restaurants, events and attractions throughout the area from the official visitor resource.
Begin with the Silver River
Let the river be the start of your visit.
Choose an Expert Guided Nature and Wildlife Tour or reserve a crystal clear kayak and explore at your own pace.