Alexander Springs

## Overview Alexander Springs is a stunning first-magnitude spring located within the Ocala National Forest in Lake County, Florida. The spring produces an estimated 80 million gallons of crystal-clear water per day, maintaining a constant temperature of approximately 72°F (22°C) year-round. The water rises from a limestone cavern roughly 27 feet deep, creating a large, inviting spring pool that flows into Alexander Creek and eventually into the St. Johns River. Alexander Springs has a long history of human use. Archaeological evidence suggests the area was inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years, drawn by the reliable freshwater source. The spring and surrounding area are now managed by the U.S. Forest Service as the Alexander Springs Recreation Area within the Ocala National Forest. While the spring is widely known as a swimming and recreation destination, the water itself has historically been valued for its clarity and purity — though visitors should note that no guarantees can be made regarding the safety of untreated natural spring water for drinking. ## Directions 1. From Altoona, FL, head south on FL-19 toward the Ocala National Forest. 2. Turn right (west) onto County Road 445 (also signed as Alexander Springs Road). 3. Follow CR-445 for approximately 5 miles until you reach the Alexander Springs Recreation Area entrance on your left. 4. There is a day-use fee to enter the recreation area. A parking area is located near the spring pool. 5. GPS coordinates: **29.081287, -81.576029** *Note: The recreation area is well-signed from FL-19, and the roads are paved all the way to the parking lot.* ## What to Expect Alexander Springs features a large, bowl-shaped spring pool with remarkably clear, turquoise-blue water. The spring boil is visible at the bottom of the pool, where water surges up through a limestone vent. The surrounding area is a lush subtropical landscape of palms, live oaks, and native Florida vegetation. The recreation area offers a developed swimming area with a sandy beach, restrooms, a campground, and picnic facilities. A paved walkway leads from the parking area to the spring pool. Alexander Springs is also the starting point for the Alexander Springs Wilderness Trail and a popular launch for kayaking and canoeing down Alexander Creek, which winds through pristine Florida wilderness. The spring pool stays at a refreshing 72°F year-round, making it a popular destination in both summer and winter. The area can get crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during warmer months — arriving early is recommended. A day-use fee (managed by the U.S. Forest Service) is required for entry. While Alexander Springs has historically been used as a freshwater source and the water is known for its exceptional clarity, visitors interested in collecting water for drinking should be aware that the spring pool is a heavily used swimming area. The water has not been officially designated as a public drinking water source in its current recreational setting.