Silver Glen Run

Ocala Nat'l Forest, FL

Silver Glen Run was on my bucket list for years. It surpassed my expectation!

ABOUT SILVER GLEN SPRING

Silver Glen Spring is located in the Ocala National Forest and is accessible by boat via Lake George; Florida’s second-largest lake! Silver Glen Run is the stream that connects the spring to Lake George. The spring is one of only 33 first-magnitude springs in Florida and produces 65 million gallons of water daily. The water at this spring is said to be the clearest in the entire State and is 72 degrees, year-round.

NAVIGATING THE RUN

Upon your approach to the mouth of the run you’ll have to cross a shallow bar. The depth is roughly two feet so approach slowly. Once in the run, stay to the right to remain in the deeper water. As you get closer to the spring you’ll notice two channels. Pick either one but only anchor outside the channel and also use a stern anchor or power-pole.

ANOTHER AMAZING SPRING IN FLORIDA

BEST TO VISIT DURING WEEK

It goes without saying that Silver Glen Run is very popular with boaters during the summer months and during holidays. As a result, it’s best to visit it during the week, if possible. That same advice holds true if you’re visiting the park and would like to bring your own kayak or rent a canoe.

THESE WATER FLOATS ARE PERFECT FOR SILVER GLEN SPRINGS

LAUNCH IN ASTOR

Astor is a great little town that’s located about 10 miles to the south of the run. I found it incredibly easy to launch at the Butler Street boat ramp and had a blast navigating the waterway north to Lake George. It’s very scenic and a great change of pace from what I’m normally used to. The approximate distance is roughly five miles from the boat ramp to the mouth of the lake and then another five miles approximately to inside the run.

CANOES, KAYAKS AND HOUSEBOAT RENTALS

If you can’t bring your own boat then consider renting a canoe from within the park or rent a boat from Castaways on the River. You can also bring your own canoe or kayak and launch from within the park. The cost is $5.50 per person to enter the park and another $16-$38 if you choose to rent a canoe. There’s no additional charge if you bring your own. Specific information about the park and canoe rentals can be found HERE. In addition, I recommend utilizing a kayak carrier/dolly to make the walk more comfortable. If you’re really adventurous it would be cool to spend a couple of days on a houseboat rental!

I utilize the service and benefits of Boat U.S. They are a great organization that every boater should consider. You should too. Click HERE to learn more.