Indian Lake State Forest Hiking Trail

Bear-n-Oak Trail: Location and Hiking Trail Maps with Pictures

Marion County
Near Ocala, Florida
Entry Fee: None
Traffic: Light
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Official Page

PDF Trail Map at Indian Lake, Marion County

PDF Trail Map ^
Interactive Trail Map at AllTrails >

Just outside of Ocala and adjacent to Silver Springs Forest Conservation Forest in Marion County, you will find a peaceful little getaway with a lake and a short trail.

The lake is actually a water-filled sinkhole, and the trail lasted me only 2.5 miles with two trips around the “lake.” Depending on the time of year and some luck, you may spot waterfowl including ducks and herons. And don’t be fooled. While the sinkhole may appear shallow, it reaches 100 feet down into an aquifer that feeds it.

All-in-all, this is a quiet and pleasant place with very nice sights including a picnic pavilion, diverse flora, cypress knees, and birds. It’s a worthwhile stop if visiting nearby trails such as Silver Springs Forest Conservation Area.

Mist rises gently from the water at daybreak, and the shoreline is ample for picnics with family. Other areas of Indian Lake State Forest offer trails for horseback riding very nearby.

So close the city and with the Silver Springs State Forest right there, it is a very worthwhile stop for a quick hike, picnics, and humble views.

Trail Images Below