Manatee in Salt Springs Run

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Canoeing in January in Salt Springs Run in the Ocala National Forest, a manatee swam up to our canoe and began rubbing against the bottom to scratch her back. She gently rubbed her back against our canoe and oars. When she was done, she paused to look at us as if to thank us and then swam away. 

Salt Springs Run FL Shallow Water Snorkeling

Salt Springs Run is a 5 mile water trail from the head of Salt Springs to Lake George, part of the St. John's River. The spring is located in the Ocala National Forest where crystal cool 72 degree water flows out of it year round. Swimming and snorkeling around the springs are popular in the summer. Boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing are popular year round. Fish and wildlife are abundant. I have seen alligators, otters, and manatees in Salt Springs Run. We've been down the run in a boat, on a jetski, and in a canoe. Each trip offers something new. We've even camped over night in our boat anchored at the end of the run. For those who want to camp on land, check out the Salt Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest.

We use the Salt Springs Run Marina boat ramp. The fee is $5 a day for parking and boat ramp. They also rent boats, canoes, and kayaks.