Silver Glen Springs
Aussum Pit, Photo by Tom Morris with assistance from Eric Hutcheson and Jim Brown.
Silver Glen Springs is among the most beautiful of Florida’s blue gems, in no small part due to its exceptionally clear water and beautiful setting in the Ocala National Forest. Unlike some Florida springs, the unparalleled clarity of the water at this spring can always be counted on.
Silver Glen strikes visitors as so extraordinary that they are usually full of questions for anyone who will take the time to talk to them. Among other things, they want to know: Where does so much water come from? Why is it so clear? Is there a cave down there? What about the sting rays, what are they doing here? Will they hurt me? Are there sharks here too? Are those Indian mounds?
Discover more about Silver Glen Springs below in the About section.
Silver Glen
Photo by Mark Long
Learn more about Silver Glen Springs
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![Woman snorkeling underwater in clear blue spring water with sunlight above]()
Why We Love This Spring
Silver Glen Springs captivates with its crystal clarity and striking natural setting. Its beauty, both above and below the water, leaves visitors refreshed, quietly amazed, and eager to return.
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![Large group of fish swimming inside a spring vent or cave opening]()
Know Your Springshed
Silver Glen Springs is fed by local rainfall that seeps through sand and limestone within its springshed. Protecting the spring means understanding and caring for the land that drains into it.
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![Aerial view of Silver Glen Springs with many boats gathered along the shoreline]()
Health and Science
Silver Glen Springs faces growing pressure from heavy recreation and ecological imbalance. Ongoing research and management are essential to restoring vegetation and protecting the spring’s long-term health.
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![Scuba diver underwater measuring or recording data on the spring floor]()
Caring for Your Spring
Protect Silver Glen by respecting aquatic plants, wildlife, and fellow visitors while at the spring. At home, conserve water, limit fertilizer use, and support policies that safeguard the springshed.
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![Vintage illustration of a woman with children emerging from water holding a basket]()
History
Silver Glen Springs has drawn people for over 10,000 years, leaving traces of ancient shell mounds. From early explorers to present day cave divers, its story continues above and below the water.
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![Man working at a desk drawing or mapping underwater cave or spring formations]()
Art, Literature & Film
Silver Glen has a long history of inspiring artists, writers, and filmmakers for generations. Its clear waters and hidden aquifer continue to inspire and shape story, image, and imagination across time.
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![Moderator Tom Morris in scuba gear floating at the water’s surface wearing mask and gear]()
About Your Moderator
Tom Morris is a lifelong Florida scuba diver and biologist devoted to springs and aquifer caves. For decades, he has explored, studied, and worked to protect these magnificent waters.
Silver Glen Springs Map
Map showing the location of Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest, Florida.
Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area is located at 5271 FL-19, Salt Springs, Florida.
It sits within the Ocala National Forest and flows into Lake George, part of the St. Johns River system.
Known for its clear water and sandy spring basin, it is a popular spot for swimming and boating access.
View on Google Maps