TAKE A DAY TRIP TO SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK
Silver Springs State Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in the heart of Florida. With crystal clear waters and lush greenery, You'll find manatees, monkeys, turtles, alligators and more.
It is a three (3) hour drive from Englewood, but it is so, so worth it! Whether you're looking to go kayaking, hiking, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Silver Springs State Park has something for everyone. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the beauty of nature firsthand.
GETTING TO SILVER SPRINGS FROM ENGLEWOOD
Silver Springs is about 3 to 3.5 hours up I-75 to Ocala. The town is pretty small but has plenty of places to eat.
Because of the longer drive, maybe plan on staying at a hotel/motel the night before (or after) so you can enjoy a full day.
The Holiday Inn (Click here) is right next to the park and is by far the best hotel around. The other motels look a little on the dingy side.
THINGS TO DO AT SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK
They offer glass bottom boat tours, but for the more adventurous, you can cruise the river in a kayak, paddleboard or a canoe.
You can enter the river at the park and get picked up 5 miles down stream and brought back to the park (fees apply but reasonable). You can bring your own equipment if you like too.
There are also plenty of hiking trails throughout the park.
YES, THERE ARE "WILD" MONKEYS HERE
The first recorded introduction of monkeys in Florida occurred along the Silver River in the 1930s in what is now Silver Springs State Park. A commercial river boat captain, Colonel Tooey, released approximately six rhesus macaques on an island in the Silver River in an effort to increase tourism.
As of 2023, its estimated that there are over 300 monkeys around Silver Springs.
VIDEO OF SILVER SPRINGS
PHOTOS OF SILVER SPRINGS STATE PARK
