Last Updated on February 21, 2024
Silver Glen Springs is one of the Florida springs located in Ocala National Forest.
Approximately 67 miles north of Orlando (about a one-hour drive) and 62 miles southeast of Gainesville, the Central Florida spring is in Marion County.
It is known for its important archaeological site and crystal-clear water.
We are spotlighting the top places to visit near Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area, including nearby places to eat, stay, and shop during your excursion.
From fresh seafood to riverfront accommodations and marketplace shops, check out all the places you can see on a visit to this outstanding Florida spring.
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Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area
Silver Glen Springs is a natural spring that is part of the USDA Forest Service and is operated by Adventure Ocala.
The area is near some other great springs of Florida, like Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs, and is also not far from state parks like Silver Springs State Park.
An annual day-use pass is available for $75 per person, plus tax, which allows you access to recreation areas managed by Adventure Ocala for one full year.
The large spring is a first-magnitude spring that discharges millions of gallons of water every single day. The water temperature stays at a cool 72 degrees year-round, making it a popular spot for water activities.
Visitors should note that because it is an archaeological site, there are fenced-off portions in the recreation area with shell mounds containing fossilized snail shells and other ancient items.
There are no campgrounds in the Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area, though there are camping options within other areas of Ocala National Forest.
Things to Do at Silver Glen Springs
There are plenty of things to do at Silver Glen Springs. The swimming area of the spring pool is a great place to go for a swim.
If you have snorkel gear, you can also see local marine life and aquatic vegetation here. Scuba diving is not allowed in the swimming area.
There is a picnic area with picnic tables – a nice place to enjoy a packed lunch and snacks.
If you enjoy hiking, there are two trails: Lake George Trail, a 2-mile roundtrip hiking trail, and Spring Boils Trail, a 0.75-mile short walk.
Boats with a shallow draft can access Silver Glen Run. Kayak and canoe rentals are available for those who want to take a trip on the spring run.
TIPS:
- Silver Glen Springs is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm, though hours can vary by season.
- The recreation area will close when the park reaches capacity. Plan to arrive early or visit on weekdays outside of the summer when the spring sees less visitor traffic.
- The admission fee for the recreation area is $12 per person, plus tax.
- Parking in the parking area on weekdays is free except on some major holidays (Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, and Labor Day).
- On weekends between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend, parking is $15 per vehicle. During this time, it is required that you reserve your parking pass.
For more information, visit the official USDA Forest Service website and the Adventure Ocala website.
Silver Glen Springs Address: 5271 FL-19, Salt Springs, FL 32134
Where to Eat Near Silver Glen Springs: Lena’s Seafood
Lena’s Seafood is a Silver Springs restaurant that opened in 1986. The restaurant is approximately 19 miles away from Silver Glen Springs and offers visitors delicious and fresh seafood options.
Lena’s is known for serving large portions, with the tagline, “a whale of a meal.”
On the menu, there is a variety of seafood appetizers and plates. Sandwiches and salads are also available, but this restaurant is known for its all-you-can-eat specials.
The specials are served with French fries, onion rings, and coleslaw, with your choice of shrimp, clam strips, or fish. Don’t miss the lobster roll!
If you are looking for a large meal after a long day at the springs, this is the place to visit.
TIPS:
- Lena’s Seafood is open Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Sunday from 2 pm to 8 pm.
- No sharing or doggie bags are available with all-you-can-eat specials.
For more information, visit the official Lena’s Seafood Facebook page.
Lena’s Seafood Address: 18478 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
Additional Places to Eat Near Silver Glen Springs
- Renegade’s Restaurant, 1171 Co Rd 309, Crescent City, FL 32112
- Bobby G’s River Pub Italian Grille, 1148 Co Rd 309, Crescent City, FL 32112
- Salt Springs Pizza, 14100 FL-19, Salt Springs, FL 32134
- The Oaks Golf Club Restaurant, 1264 Co Rd 309, Crescent City, FL 32112
- Crossbones Grill, 16460 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488
- Odd Todd’s, 13398 FL-19, Salt Springs, FL 32134
Where to Stay Near Silver Glen Springs: River House with 2 Boat Docks
The River House with 2 Boat Docks is an Airbnb listing in Astor, Florida, approximately 14 miles from Silver Glen Springs.
This beautiful spot is along the St. Johns River, with amenities like a dock with parking for people traveling with a boat.
The river connects to Lake George and Silver Glen Springs, meaning you can travel from the Airbnb to the springs directly on the water if you have a boat.
Other amenities include a hot tub with views of the water, a barbeque grill, a patio, a porch, a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer.
This is the perfect place to stay for guests looking for a wide range of comforts and space.
TIPS:
- River House with 2 Boat Docks is available with an advanced reservation.
- Check-in is after 4 pm. Check-out is before 10 am.
- Three bedrooms, three beds, and two and a half bathrooms accommodate up to six guests.
- Pets are not allowed on the property.
For more information, visit the official listing on the Airbnb website.
River House with 2 Boat Docks Address: Astor, FL. The exact location is undisclosed before booking.
Additional Places to Stay Near Silver Glen Springs
- Renegades on the River, 1171 Co Rd 309, Crescent City, FL 32112
- Hotel Pierson, 107 S Volusia Ave, Pierson, FL 32180
- Runaway Bay Lodge, 1610 Lake George Rd, Seville, FL 32190
- Elite Resorts at Salt Springs, 14100 FL-19, Salt Springs, FL 32134
Where to Shop Near Silver Glen Springs: Mount Dora Marketplace
Mount Dora Marketplace is a collection of businesses located in Mount Dora, about 35 miles from Silver Glen Springs.
The marketplace has a wide variety of vendors. This makes it a great place to shop while you are in the area.
Whether you are looking for souvenirs, clothes, perfume, incense, or food and drinks, you’ll find something you’ll love.
If you are hungry, you can find authentic Lebanese food, pizza, grilled cheese, Italian ice, and waffles as some of the excellent options available at the marketplace.
For gifts, head over to Lulu’s for inspiration. The shop sells unique jewelry, candles, soaps, lotions, and more.
TIPS:
- Mount Dora Marketplace is open daily. Hours vary per individual business.
- The area often hosts local events and live music.
- Outdoor seating is available.
For more information, visit the official Mount Dora Marketplace Facebook page.
Mount Dora Marketplace Address: 100 E 4th Ave, Mt Dora, FL 32757
Additional Places to Shop Near Silver Glen Springs
- Renninger’s Florida Twin Markets, 20651 US-441, Mount Dora, FL 32757
- Wildwood Antique Mall of Eustis, 349 Plaza Dr., Eustis, FL 32726
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