Did you know that Florida is the flattest state in the country? If you live here, you probably could have guessed. While some areas have more hills than others, we don't exactly have a lot of white-peaked mountains dotting our scenery. We're not complaining. We love our beaches and wildlife, and the flatness of the landscape means you can see the sky for miles. It is kind of cool, though, when you find a nice hill with a great view.
Our favorite one is in Lake Wales in Central Florida. You've probably heard of the majestic Bok Tower and its lush gardens, but there's another reason to visit that hardly ever gets mentioned. The gardens were planted on the summit of a hill called Iron Mountain, which is one of the highest points in Florida, rising 295 feet above sea level.
This means that the gardens offer some lovely views of the scenic orange groves and rolling hills covering the landscape. It's just one more reason to visit this enchanting Florida landmark. Here is shot of the view from Iron Mountain, as well as a few other photos to give you an idea of what the rest of the gardens look like:
The Stunning Top-Secret Natural Spring in Florida Nobody’s Ever Heard Of
Fern Hammock Springs is a natural spring in Florida that is worth visiting. With crystal clear blue waters and a nature trail, this is a great day-trip adventure.
Finding a hidden gem nature spot can be hard nowadays. It seems everything has already been discovered and shared! But when it comes to natural springs in Florida, there are quite a few that remain under the radar compared to other more popular springs. For instance, you've likely heard of Rock Springs Run in Kelly Park, as so many locals and visitors are trekking there daily to show off the turquoise water and paddling adventures. But what if I told you about another place - a lesser-known spring, that deserves just as much recognition as the big spots? This top-secret natural spring in Florida is as stunning as it is secretive.
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Natural clear fresh water oasis at Juniper springs with wooden bridge at Ocala national forest in central Florida, north of Orlando.
Fern Hammock Springs is a hidden gem located within the Ocala National Forest in Florida, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. The spring is not as widely known as other springs in the area, making it an ideal destination for those seeking less crowds and more coveted calm.
The Ocala National Forest, where Fern Hammock Springs is nestled, was established in 1908, making it the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River. This forest is part of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway and is home to several unique ecosystems. Fern Hammock Springs contributes to this environmental richness, providing a habitat for fish, turtles, and various aquatic plants. While less commercialized than nearby springs like Juniper Springs, it remains a vital part of Florida’s natural springs system, which feeds into the St. Johns River.
An oak tree hangs over Fern Hammock Springs, artesian springs of the Florida Aquifer.
To get to Fern Hammock Springs, you'll need to find the Juniper Springs Recreation Area and then take about a 15-minute walk from there. Keep in mind, this spring is not open for swimming unlike others in the area, but that shouldn't dissuade you from visiting. Visitors should come prepared to enjoy the surroundings in a more passive way, such as hiking or photography. The water is stunningly clear, with a white sandy bottom that gives it a tropical feel.
While you cannot swim here, you can dip your feet in certain areas and take in the peaceful ambiance. Be sure to bring water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for hiking in the area. There are restrooms and picnic areas at Juniper Springs, making it a convenient base for your visit.
underwater scenery in Florida
The walk to Fern Hammock Springs is scenic, with lush vegetation, towering trees, and native wildlife. The trail to the springs crosses a picturesque wooden footbridge, offering a perfect vantage point to observe the spring’s bubbling sands and vibrant aquatic life. The area is quiet and largely untouched, providing a sense of stepping back in time to Florida’s natural past.
A juvenile American Alligator swims through the clear waters of a Florida spring
Keep in mind, there will be local wildlife floating around so always be ready. While alligators are not frequently seen at Fern Hammock Springs, it is important to remain cautious, especially since the area is part of the Ocala National Forest, where wildlife thrives in its natural environment.
Visitors should always be mindful of their surroundings near any body of water in Florida. Though Fern Hammock Springs itself is not open for swimming, being aware of safety guidelines is essential. Alligators typically avoid human interaction, but you should still maintain a safe distance and never feed or provoke them.
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Have you ever visited Fern Hammock Springs before? What was your experience like? Sound off in the comments section!
Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way you can get even more information before you start your journey.
Do you have a spare day that you're looking to fill with an adventure outdoors? If you happen to be near the Wimauma, Florida, area, then I have the perfect place. The Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve is a worthwhile visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Mother Nature for an afternoon. At nearly 6,000 acres of space and with four hiking trails, this hidden gem nature preserve in Florida is so much more than what meets the eye.
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The Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve, located in Hillsborough County, Florida, is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Spanning nearly 6,000 acres, this preserve is a haven for wildlife and a prime example of Florida's natural scrub habitat, which is characterized by sandy soils and unique plant communities.
Mountain bikers, in particular, will find the trails to be a thrilling experience, with well-maintained paths that wind through varied terrain, including wooded areas, open fields, and along picturesque lakes.
The preserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to see a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for bird watching. The preserve’s scrub habitat is crucial for several endangered species, including the Florida scrub-jay, gopher tortoise, and Eastern indigo snake.
Balm Boyette also features several scenic lakes and wetlands, providing excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. The tranquil environment and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for picnicking, nature walks, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
The Balm Boyette Scrub Nature Preserve is a testament to Florida’s natural beauty and biodiversity, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the state’s unique ecosystems.
Know before you go: Managed by Hillsborough County's Conservation and Environmental Lands Management department, the preserve is well-maintained, with clear signage and amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.
Have you ever visited the Balm Boyette Scrub Park before? Did you know about this hidden gem nature preserve in Florida already? Sound off in the comments section! You can also visit the AllTrails page for more information about planning a visit.
Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way, you can get even more information before you start your journey.
