A Weekend At Florida's Silver River State Park

On October 1st, Silver River State Park combined with the Silver Springs Nature Theme Park.  It is now known as Silver Springs State Park. There are two entrances now.  One  goes to the former theme park and the second is the campground and river area entrance. 

Fourth of July and we are at a very nice partially shaded, gravel site state park.  Large & level, with electric, water, grill, fire pit and table.  The campsites are well planned and laid out in 4 kidney shaped loops.  Two are predominantly drive through and two predominantly back-in.  All have a good distance in between with shrubbery and trees for privacy.  Unashamed plug for Florida State Parks. 

 

The trail to the river marina.  On this trail you can drive to the marina and put your canoe or kayak in the river.  It rained the night before and the loop extension was closed due to flooding. That cut out half the trail length for hikers.

 

There are several trails for soft hiking. Most are pretty defined, level and well marked. We noticed a few bikers had used the trails also.  Occasionally you will encounter small fields with smaller trees, shrubs and grass.  Perfect for the predator birds to catch small prey like mice and rabbits as they perch in the taller trees surrounding the fields...watching, waiting, hungry.  During our hikes and bike rides we spotted deer, feral hogs, red tail hawks, rabbits and more.  This time of year wear your insect repellent.

 Another trail to the river.  This includes a boardwalk through a swampy area.  Saw no gators or snakes, but they are there...lurking. 

The swamp area leading to the river.  To the left of this view the water is more predominant as we walk the boardwalk.  There is a slight elevation change to the park and you can see the flora change as the dry higher land descends to the swamp and river.

The river.  Very good for canoes and kayaks.  There is a mild flow that presents a slight challenge, but not tiring. Motor powered boats are allowed, but the no wake rule is strictly enforced by the rangers.  One can travel to the spring head in Silver Springs or go further downstream from the park marina.

The water is from the Florida aquifer so is cool, clear and an awesome color when hit by the sun.

Take a break from the physical activities in the park in this air-conditioned museum.  Very impressive to be so small.  A lot of history of the area and Florida, artifacts, and local flora and fauna.  Well worth the 2 dollar entrance fee.

 

In addition to the river and the trails, one can see a replica of a Florida Cracker village.  Guided tours are available.  There is a typical home, church, store, blacksmith shop and more.

You don't need a tent or RV of any sort to visit and enjoy this state park.  The 10 cabins on a separate loop are very nice accommodations.  Two bedroom/1 bath with open living area and a huge veranda.

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