Ocala National Forest // Hopkin's Prairie & Juniper Springs

I flew down to Orlando about a week ago to do some backpacking in the ONF with some friends, as is our spring break tradition. The weather was great (80-85 degrees every day), but that's not saying a lot when you live in one of the gloomiest states during this time of year. I expect most Michiganders would take anything above 50 degrees and some sunlight at this point. I digress.

Anyways, the ONF is an unbelievable place. I really enjoy this particular forest because, unlike most in Michigan, the scenery varies immensely. For example, you could be standing in a slew of conifers one minute, and after a short walk you'd be surrounded by palm trees. I was also pretty stoked to find a few cactuses in Hopkin's Prairie, which is the area in the ONF that we were hiking.

We finished the trip at Juniper Springs Recreation Area. The campground is located directly next to a natural spring with crystal clear water. Anyone is welcome to swim there, as well!