Discover the Natural Beauty of Seminole State Forest
Explore the serene trails and rich biodiversity at Seminole State Forest, a natural oasis just outside Leesburg, Florida.
Seminole State Forest offers an enchanting escape into Florida's natural beauty, featuring serene trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Seminole State Forest
- 9610 County Rd 44, Leesburg, Florida, 34788, US
- +1352-360-6677
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the longer trails.
- Check for any alerts or park conditions before your visit to ensure a safe experience.
- Consider camping overnight to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the forest.
- Take a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife throughout the forest.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Seminole State Forest from downtown Ocala, you can take the public bus. Start at the Ocala Transit Station located at 100 NE 1st Ave. Board the Lake County B bus, which travels towards Leesburg. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the latest departure times. Stay on the bus for approximately 45 minutes and get off at the stop closest to County Rd 44 in Leesburg. From there, you may need to walk about 15 minutes to reach 9610 County Rd 44, following the signs to the forest.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, consider renting a bike from one of the local rental shops in Ocala. Once you have a bike, head towards the north on NE 25th Ave until you reach US-441. Turn right on US-441 and continue heading north for about 12 miles. You will eventually come close to Leesburg. Look for signs to County Rd 44, and follow it west until you reach Seminole State Forest.
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Rideshare Service
For a more direct route, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and enter '9610 County Rd 44, Leesburg, FL 34788' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your current location in Ocala. The ride typically takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic, making it a convenient option if you are unfamiliar with the area.
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Walking
If you're an adventurous walker, you can attempt a long trek. Start from downtown Ocala and head north on NE 25th Ave. Continue until you reach US-441, then turn right. Follow US-441 north until you reach the intersection with County Rd 44. Turn left onto County Rd 44 and walk until you reach Seminole State Forest. This journey is roughly 12 miles and will take several hours, so be prepared with water and snacks.
Discover more about Seminole State Forest
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Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing
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The Rheinauer
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Lake Griffin State Park
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Lake Dora
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Hickory Point Recreation Park
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Ocala National Forest - Seminole Ranger Station
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Rusty Anchor Mount Dora
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Mount Dora Transit and Tours
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Sunset Park
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The Donnelly House
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Donnelly Park
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Mount Dora Center for the Arts
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Mount Dora History Museum
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Visit Mount Dora
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Modernism Museum
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Essential places to dine
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The Mason Jar Restaurant
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Peach Valley Café
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Cafe Gianni
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Tonys Clam Chowder Seafood Restaurant
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The Frog and Monkey Restaurant & Pub
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Golden Triangle Street Boutique
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