Silver Springs State Park

The crystal clear water of the Silver River is the stuff of legend. It’s so clear, they invented glass bottom boats just to look at it. Yep, this park is the actual birthplace of the glass bottom boat. 

Formerly known as Silver River State Park, this fork of the Ocklawaha River is chock full of aquatic activities. Canoe, kayak, or catch a ride on one of those famous boats. Whatever mode of water travel you choose, keep a sharp eye on the bank. American Alligators, Florida Black Bear, and a ton of other wildlife call the Park home. 

Oh yes, the monkeys. Six feral rhesus macaque monkeys were released in the park in the 1930’s as a way to draw tourists. They quickly adapted to the climate and now number close to 1,000. A lucky paddler might catch a monkey splash party because they love to climb up the trees and do belly flops into the river!

Back on land, hike or bike through the 15 miles of trails that wind through soupy marshlands dotted with bald cypress trees. There’s a special trail for equestrians, too.

Don’t miss the Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center, and its 19th-century pioneer village. There's also an exhibit on the natural and social history of the area. Whether you plan to spend your day on the water or off, don’t forget your bug spray! This is Florida, after all.