Must-See National Forests in Florida

3 Must-See National Forests in Florida

Florida National Forest manages three national forests: Apalachicola, Osceola, and Ocala. Combined, these national forest lands cover approximately 1.2 million acres in northern and central Florida. Those 1.2 million acres include about 500,000 acres of wetlands and more than 85,000 acres of federally designated wilderness. More than 300,000 followers and 118 recreationally developed sites receive more than 1.1 million visitors each year.

Three national forests lie within Florida's borders and provide habitat for countless species of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else on the planet. Individual features such as a giant crystal clear freshwater fountain sink and one of the longest-explored underwater cave systems in the United States provide a window into Florida's geologic history. Combine all three forests and protect a land larger than Rhode Island.

Apalachicola National Forest

The Apalachicola National Forest is home to some of the world's most unique plant and animal species. Here, visitors can safely enjoy family activities, such as fishing, hunting, hiking, running, and jogging around the peaceful and diverse ecosystems.

The Apalachicola National Forest is the largest of the US National Forests in the state of Florida. It covers 632,890 acres (988.89 sq mi; 2,561.2 km2)[1] and is the only national forest located in the Florida Panhandle. The National Forest offers land and water activities such as biking, hiking, swimming, boating, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and ATV use.

Ocala National Forest

The Ocala National Forest is the second largest protected national forest in the US state of Florida, covering 607 square miles (1,570 km) of Central Florida. It is located three miles (5 km) east of Ocala and 16 miles (26 km) east of Gainesville. The Ocala National Forest Florida, established in 1908, is the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River[1] and the southernmost national forest in the continental US. The word Ocala is believed to be a derivative of the Timucuan word, which means beautiful land or large hammock. The forest is headquartered in Tallahassee, there are three national forests in Florida, but local district offices are located in Silver Springs and Umatilla.

Nestled between popular theme parks and white sand beaches, the gems of the Ocala National Forest map attract visitors from around the world.

A tourist destination in its own right, Ocala boasts more than 600 lakes and rivers where visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling, boating, and canoeing.

From migratory birds and playful springs to delicate water sources and some of the world's rarest plants, Ocala is a haven where people (and animals) escape to one of Florida's remaining wild places. Here, opportunities abound for everyone to enjoy the wonders of Mother Nature 365 days a year.

Ocala is a unique and fascinating forest that provides a climate for year-round recreation. Mild winters are ideal for family camping, while summer boat trips run along the palm fringes and are a great way to spend an August day. Temperatures in the dry months of November through February range from a daily average of 50 F to a high of 72 F. The summer season is much hotter and more humid. Brief afternoon showers often raise the humidity to around 90%, while temperatures range between 80 F and 95 F. Rainfall averages about 55 inches per year.

Water plays an important role in various recreational activities of the forest. There are huge springs, flowing rivers, and lakes suitable for fishing and water. Many lakes are formed when the limestone dissolves, allowing the surface layer to sink and fill with water. The cold, crystal-clear Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs, Salt Springs, and Silver Glen Springs attract many visitors to soak up the water. Divers often encounter underwater sights of exciting fish, swirling vegetation, and cavernous fountains. It's no wonder the Ocala National Forest is one of the most heavily used National Forests in the United States. Some recreational activities require or permit a jump.

Osceola National Forest

The Osceola National Forest is a quiet place where people come to escape occupation and connect with the land. The Flatwoods and marshes take guests back in time and provide a peaceful opportunity for hunting, fishing, and swimming.

The Osceola National Forest Florida was created by President Herbert Hoover's proclamation on July 10, 1931.

The forest consists of about 200,000 acres (810 km2) of pines and cypresses and hardwood swamps in northern Florida, and about 50 miles (80 km) west of Jacksonville. It is born in parts of Columbia, Baker, Bradford, and Hamilton counties. The forest management headquarters is in Tallahassee, as are all three of Florida's National Forests Camping. The local Ranger District is located in Olustee. The officially designated wilderness area in the forest is 13,660 acres (55.3 km2).

Osceola National Forest is located in the northern part of Florida between Lake City and Jacksonville, near the junctions of I-10 and I-75 and the junctions of US 90 and US 441. It is located in the parts of Columbia, Baker; Bradford, and Hamilton. Forest is in Tallahassee County, but the offices are local to Olustee County.