Outdoor Science and Learning
The Forest Service provides a variety of educational resources and programs for individuals of all ages to learn about the environment and our nation’s forests and grasslands. The National Forests in Florida has interpretive areas and visitor centers to get to know more about your forest.
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Alexander Run
Site Open
Bubbling forth from Alexander Springs into Alexander Creek, this popular canoe run starts at the Alexander Springs Recreation Area and continues for about six miles of paddling to the take-out on…
Alexander Springs Recreation Area
Site Open
Only 27 first-magnitude springs exist in Florida, and Alexander Springs is by far one of the easiest to enjoy. A broad and naturally gently sloped spring pool is a constant 72°F and…
Alexander Springs Wilderness
Site Open
Encompassing 7,941 acres, this wilderness area between Alexander Springs and Lake Dexter - one of the many lakes in the St. Johns River chain of lakes - is a trackless place, with a paddle down the…
Apalachee Savannahs Scenic Byway
Site Open
The Apalachicola Savannahs, home to the Apalachee Savannahs Scenic Byway, are sub-tropical grasslands scattered with longleaf pine trees and covered with drought-resistant undergrowth. It’s an…
Apalachicola National Forest
Site Open
The Apalachicola National Forest is home to some of the most unique animal and plant species in the world. Here, visitors can enjoy safe, family-friendly activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking…
Big Gum Swamp Wilderness
Site Temporarily Closed
This large, nearly level area consists primarily of a poorly drained to very poorly drained freshwater swamp of cypress and gum. The surface is a thick, spongy mat of organic material, sluggishly…
Billie Bay Wilderness
Site Open
Legend has it that the Seminole warrior Billie Bowlegs hid out in this swamp, from which the headwaters of Alexander Springs arises. Old-timers refer to swamps as "bays" and this one is a prime…
Camel Lake Trail
Site Open
If you want to go for an easy walk near the Camel Lake Recreation Area, then this 1-mile loop trail is for you. This gentle exploration of upland areas around Camel Pond starts and ends at the…
Chain of Lakes
The Chain of Lakes runs north-south through the prairies and scrub of the Ocala National Forest, lying south of SR 40 and paralleling SR 19 to the west behind Sellers Lake and Beakman Lake. It…
Clearwater Lake Nature Trail
Site Open
The Clearwater Lake Nature Trail is a 1.3-mile loop starting at the day use area. It is an easy walk that traverses the major habitats around the lake, including pine flatwoods, freshwater marsh…