A hidden gem amongst rural farmlands in northeast peninsular Florida, Otter Springs is a captivating spot for swimming, picnicking and climbing close to the Suwannee River.
Whereas the park might be busy within the summertime, particularly on weekends, it’s sometimes quieter within the cooler months, and the spring stays 73 levels Fahrenheit year-round.
Spring headCanoes and kayaks might be rented to discover the spring run and river, and a campground offers choices for an in a single day keep.
A country lodge is out there for gatherings, and a heated indoor swimming pool is supplied as a further amenity for campers.
Otter Springs PathSources
Overview
Location: TrentonLength: 3 milesTrailhead: 29.643778, -82.943639Address: 6470 SW eightieth Ave, TrentonFees: FreeRestrooms: Bathhouses close to the tenting areaLand supervisor: Suwannee River Water Administration DistrictPhone: 352-463-0800
Open 9 AM to sundown. Leashed canines are allowed on trails, however not at springs or picnic areas.
The south finish of the park has quick access for cyclists to the Nature Coast Path by way of again roads.
Instructions
Hike
Beginning on the parking space close to a pavilion alongside the spring swimming space, look to the west for a put up topped with a pink diamond.
It signifies the start of the path. The posts lead previous a home on stilts earlier than becoming a member of a sandy entry street.
Swimming spaceGiant dwell oaks with twisted branches border the path because it makes a gradual descent in direction of the Suwannee River.
Tall water marks on the tree trunks are a testomony as to how excessive the river rises throughout flood occasions.
Reside oaks within the floodplainA densely wooded wetland borders the spring run to the north, the place the forest flooring is roofed in cypress knees.
Stately cypress bushes seem within the distance throughout wintertime when the deciduous vegetation has shed its leaves.
Swamp alongside the spring runReaching an apparent junction with the aspect loop at one mile, proceed straight for an additional quarter mile to unbelievable views on a sloped financial institution alongside the Suwannee River.
Belted kingfishers name out with their distinctive chittering as occasional boats cruise by on sluggish tannic waters.
Suwannee RiverFlip left, following the extensive pathway for a tenth of a mile to the top, the place a swampy swale separates the path from Little Otter Spring.
Relying on water ranges, the clear, bluish waters could also be seen from the path, or an adventuresome crossing on downed bushes could also be required to view the spring.
Little Otter Spring (Ryan Worthington)From this level, backtrack for 0.4 mile to the aspect loop and switch proper, getting into a lush upland habitat lined in noticed palmettos.
Orange diamond markers paved the way as a slender pathway winds via a blended forest of pine and sand dwell oaks, passing a couple of trailside benches alongside the best way.
Reaching the primary path in 0.7 mile, flip proper to comply with the street again to the parking space in one other 0.6 mile to finish this 3 mile hike.
Bench on the Orange PathPath Map
Discover Extra!
Be taught extra concerning the springs of the Decrease Suwannee
Three Days of Decrease Suwannee Springs Not so busy because of their areas on the decrease Suwannee River, this collection of 4 main springs present one other 3-day weekend getaway choice for lively outside recreation in FloridaVideo
Mountain climbing at Otter Springs
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