ALEXANDRA SPRINGS

Ocala National Forest, 49525 County Rd 445, Altoona, FL 32702  Phone: (352) 669-3522

Alexander Springs is a first-magnitude spring that flows from multiple vents in a tight cluster found in the limestone below the water. It is located in the U.S. state of Florida and was designated in 1984 by the United States Congress. The wilderness has a total of 7,941 acres (32 km2) and is within Ocala National Forest, which is the oldest National Forest east of the Mississippi River.

The spring water after leaving the pool area flows approximately 10 miles through Alexander Springs Creek until it empties into the St. Johns River. The spring flows from the large, cavernous opening in the bottom of the central part of a large pool. The pool measures over 300 feet from north to south and 250 feet from east to west. The pool bottom near the beach is mostly sandy.

Aquatic vegetation surrounds the area of the main spring vent, where the pool bottom falls away to reveal a large open area of exposed limestone rock and boulders to a depth of about 25 to 28 feet. The spring is also home to a variety of wildlife including otters, alligators, and turtles.

Flow from the discharging water creates a large and powerful surface boil over the spring opening that is readily visible from the shore. A broad sand beach forms the southwest edge of the pool, with mixed hardwood and palm forests around the spring.

A nearby concession facility offers canoe and kayak rentals and livery service for those who want to paddle the spring run. The recreation area also includes camping, picnic areas, and a bathhouse. It is open for both day and overnight use.

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