Ocala National Forest Trip - first timer

Hey guys! Planning a trip to the ONF March 28th-31st 2019. Hoping to have a good mix of trail riding, and check out some of the springs/lakes.

I’ve done a good amount of research online, have watched a lot of YouTube videos of people’s trips and trails rides.

Was kind of wondering if anyone had any advice with trails or a route they like to take or any tips to make my trip a better experience. Lived in Florida for 22+ years and never been to the ONF. So figured it was time to go do some exploring, just don’t want to go in completely blind.

I will also be primitive camping, so any camping location tips is also a +.

Look forward to hearing some responses

Thanks guys!!

 

I've been out of FL for 16 years but I used to go play in Ocala a bit. If you want to play in some sand dune type stuff, I used to go to places like these: https://goo.gl/maps/bvux8YfrYjs

I can't comment on camping as I've been out of the area for too long, but I remember there being plenty of primitive sites around. Enjoy your trip!

 

That’s awesome!! Thank you! We will definitely check that spot out. Yea there is plenty of camping in that general area.

I appreciate you taking the time to respond, I’ll post some pics when I return!!

 

How'd the trip turn out? I'm curious if any of those sand dune areas were still there and accessible!

 

So the trip was a major success!! Had a great time with great people!! There was a lot of ringing around to do. We tried to hit as many as we could in the one day time we had.(rode one day, springs the next). Not sure if we hit this exact sand dunes but it’s possible. We did some good riding around Blue Sink and the bombing range. Trying to collect all the pictures from everyone and then can post some more

 

Awesome, glad to hear it! Did you guy's visit Alexander springs? That was my old go-to as it was the closest. Juniper springs was always fun to rent a canoe too and paddle.

 

Those are the two we debated on. We ended up going to Juniper and doing the kayak/canoe rental. It was a great time!! Definitely planning just a guys weekend though next time and it will be stictly for riding.. maybe I’ll be able to get some Members who are more familiar with the trails to come out.. you can really get lost up there. Sooo much land to explore!

 

Wish I had come across this earlier! I am located not to far from ONF and have spent some time out there in past years. Looks like a fun time. Can't beat the springs around that area either.